Our Impact team is addressing an increasingly complex landscape of local and global needs with intention and strategy.

Our Jacobson Jewish Community Foundation is responding to today’s economic uncertainties with increased grantmaking and scholarships – ensuring that more families can access Jewish life with dignity and pride.

And, of course, the secret formula of our success: a team of dedicated lay leaders, board members, and committee chairs – under the leadership of our board chair Jill Rose – who are shaping the future of Jewish Boca.

Then there’s this campus – a 100-acre ecosystem of Jewish life. I’ve been meeting regularly with our agency partners to ensure we’re stewarding this resource wisely, collaboratively, and boldly.

Since October 7th, there’s been a surge of interest in meaningful Jewish life. People aren’t just showing up – they’re lining up.

They’re seeking belonging, and they’re finding it right here on the Richard and Carole Siemens Campus of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County.

From early childhood education to senior care, day schools to disability services, Federation partner agencies are doing transformational work. And while we do not take credit for their excellence, we take great pride in being their strategic and financial backbone.

Let me highlight just a few ways your support of our Annual Campaign is making a difference:

The Adolph and Rose Levis JCC served more than 6300 people through arts, sports, and recreation.

In 2024, Rales Jewish Family Services provided over 9700 counseling and therapy sessions, and distributed over 200,000 pounds of food through the Jacobson Family Food Pantry. More than 1,000 people live and work at Sinai Residences, which continues to set the industry standard for senior care.

Donna Klein Jewish Academy hit a record enrollment of 760 students – with 800 on the horizon.  Katz Hillel Day School has reached capacity in most grades and just completed a 20,000-square-foot expansion. Katz Yeshiva High School is nearing 500 students and expanding as well. Some of those students travel from Miami to attend the school.

JARC is building a new 12,000-square foot facility, scheduled to open in October.

This campus is a model of comprehensive Jewish life that most communities can only dream of. So where does that leave the Federation?

As the central nerve and beating heart of this campus, we’re working tirelessly to anticipate the needs of our community – not just for today, but for the years ahead.

And we’re seeing momentum:

Our Sandler Major Gifts Event drew more than 400 people – a marquee evening celebrating philanthropy and impact.

Our pride of Lions ascended to Atlanta with the second-largest delegation registered for the 2025 Lion of Judah Conference.

I want to applaud Federation’s commitment to bringing the prestigious Wexner Heritage Program back to our community – a cornerstone leadership development initiative that has shaped a generation of lay leaders. This summer, we’ll celebrate 20 outstanding, community members who have completed this rigorous two-year journey, including a transformative trip to Israel.

For new and emerging leaders, the 3049ish LEAP program is creating a strong pipeline to guide this Federation’s future.

Our events are drawing new faces weekly. Case in point, our “Celebrate Israel” festival attracted more than 800 registrations. That wasn’t just a party – it was a statement.

The takeaway is clear.

We have everything we need – right here in South Palm Beach County. So now we move forward – boldly – with clear goals and you, our community, in the center.

First, we will expand community engagement and leadership development.

This coming season, we’ll launch programs that position Federation as the go-to destination for meaningful connection and belonging. A new Ambassadors Program will extend our reach  into neighborhoods and communities across the county.

Second, we will fight antisemitism with strength.

Through our JCRC and partnerships across Florida, including our sister Federations, we are stepping up as public advocates on behalf of the Jewish community, making sure our elected officials hear our voices and act on our values.

Our commitment to Israel will never waver. This summer, 25 members from our community will participate in a Birthright Volunteer Mission, a new model for those who want to roll up their sleeves and help Israel at its most critical moment.

Next, Security remains essential. You cannot thrive Jewishly, if you don’t feel safe. We believe it is our responsibility to leverage partnerships with the Secure Community Network, LiveSecure, and law enforcement at every level to protect our community. This year alone, Federation helped local agencies secure over $1.2 million through FEMA’s nonprofit security grant program. And through our own Community Security Grant Fund, Federation will distribute hundreds of thousands of dollars to help local organizations harden their facilities.

Third, we will double down on philanthropy.

In uncertain economic times, we will not be paralyzed. We will lead with bold initiatives that require – and deserve – your support.

We love this campus. But it needs a facelift, it needs parking, it needs a master plan – and more importantly, it must meet the expectations of the families relocating to South Palm Beach County.

We’ll be laser-focused on raising funds for initiatives that help our community feel deeply connected and proud to be Jewish  –  in Boca, Delray, in Israel, and around the world.

At a time when moral clarity is in short supply, Federation will lead with a steady voice and unwavering conviction.

When I accepted this role, I accepted a mandate for change, but not change for its own sake  –  change driven by purpose. Change that builds on our strengths. Change that honors the past while unlocking the future. Change means asking hard questions.

It means making bold decisions.

It means letting go of what no longer serves the community we are destined to become.

Yes, change can be uncomfortable, but it is the only path forward.

Together, with the board, our staff, and with you  –  we will push past limitations and unleash the full potential of Jewish Boca.

And let me be clear  –  with thousands of families moving here, with talent flowing in, and with your commitment already strong – we are ready.

So tonight, we look back with pride. We look ahead with courage. And we move forward together – with vision, with purpose, and with one another.

This moment is not just our Annual Meeting –  it is a new beginning. A moment that celebrates excellence, demands ambition, and dares us to dream.

And now, as we honor three individuals whose dedication and spirit embody everything this Federation stands for, let’s do what this community does best: Let’s celebrate each other – and move forward, together.

Thank you.