Venezuela and Others Around The World Need Our Help
As I approach my tenth month as CEO of Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest, I’ve been reflecting on what I’ve come to appreciate about this extraordinary community.
Over these past months, I’ve met donors, volunteers, clergy, agency leadership, students, families, and community leaders across our region. I’ve also had the opportunity to travel to Israel and India and see firsthand how strong communal bonds are built through shared responsibility, compassion, and a deep commitment to community. In Greater MetroWest, I’ve experienced firsthand that people show up for one another.
Just this week, we mobilized immediate support for the Venezuelan Jewish community in the aftermath of two powerful earthquakes. It is at moments like this that every Federation and every Federation donor can – and should – be rightfully proud of the emergency response network that we have helped build and maintain for the benefit of the Jewish people worldwide,
Our partners, the American Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) and The Jewish Agency for Israel, are working to support the Venezuelan Jewish community and concerned family members in Israel. JDC is assisting the community on the ground and has authorized the distribution of non-perishable food supplies that were pre-positioned for emergencies. The Jewish Agency has activated its overseas emergency response table and established a dedicated hotline through its Global Center for Venezuelan immigrants in Israel and for those seeking information about immigrating to Israel. We will closely monitor the situation alongside our partners to assess evolving needs and determine any additional response that may be required.
It is because of our core support for this critical work through our UJA Annual Campaign that we can assure our communities that the Jews of North America showed up immediately in this crisis with help and support, and will continue to be there for the Jewish community of Venezuela as we are needed.
Federation’s impact is often felt long before it is seen. It is present when a family finds its place in Jewish life, a Holocaust survivor receives the care and dignity they deserve, a young person develops a connection to Israel, our community has advocates standing up for Jewish interests and values, and Jewish individuals and institutions live proudly and securely.
I’ve seen how Federation helps build the Jewish future, strengthens our connection to Jews around the world, and protects the security and resilience of our community. What connects all this work is a simple powerful Jewish value: Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh—all Jews are responsible for one another. Federation turns that responsibility into action every day.
As we approach the close of this year’s Annual Campaign, we have a special opportunity to deepen that impact. Thanks to the generosity of community leaders, every new and increased gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $150,000.
If you have already made your gift, thank you. If you have not yet participated, or if you are able to increase your 2026 commitment, now is the perfect time.
I am deeply honored to serve as your CEO and grateful for the generosity of our donors and the spirit of responsibility that defines this community. I look forward to continuing our work together by building an even stronger future for Jewish life in Greater MetroWest, Israel, and around the world.
Shabbat shalom.