What drives us

OUR MISSION

The Jewish Federation of Detroit is the cornerstone of the Detroit Jewish community.

Our mission is simple: We are committed to taking care of the needs of the Jewish people and building a vibrant Jewish future, in Detroit, in Israel and around the world. 

YOUR VOTE MATTERS.

We encourage every member of the Detroit Jewish community to vote in the Michigan Primary on August 4 and the General Election on November 3. Voting is one of the most important ways we can uphold our values and strengthen our Jewish community.

Visit JewishDetroit.org/tookit to learn more.

OUR IMPACT

1M
Scholarships
provided annually by Tamarack  Camps
Approximately 1 in 4 campers receive scholarships, making a transformative Jewish overnight camp experience possible for many who might not otherwise attend.
29,254
Rides
provided annually through Jewish Family Service
JFS transportation services allow older adults and those with developmental disabilities to reach doctors’ appointments and social activities.
3,643
Students
attend Jewish day school or early childhood centers
Federation–supported Jewish educational schools offer high-quality education and foster strong community values for thousands of students each year.
807
People
with disabilities provided job training and support at Gesher Human Services
Through personalized support and specialized training, Gesher empowers individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence and workplace success.
9,665
Participants
attended Jewish Federation of Detroit programming
From NEXTGen Detroit and Affinities to Women’s Philanthropy and Israel & Overseas, these events brought people together to help build a more connected and vibrant Jewish Detroit.
1,562
0-INTEREST
loans given through Hebrew Free Loan
HFL provides interest-free loans to qualified Jewish community members for college tuition, starting small businesses, undergoing IVF treatments and more.
837
Teens
found Jewish community and connection through BBYO
Leadership skills learned through BBYO help teens feel confident, connected and ready to make a difference in Jewish Detroit and beyond.
1,400
Engagements
welcoming new families and connecting them to resources through JFamily
Connections made through JFamily help parents feel supported, informed and part of Jewish Detroit from day one.
1,709
Enrolled
in Jewish supplementary schools at synagogues and Chabads
New levels of enrollment are fortifying our institutions that inspire Jewish learning and community.
19,500
Professionals
trained and counseled since 10/7 through JDC to support Israel’s most vulnerable
Essential skills and guidance equip frontline workers to deliver care when it matters most.
2,200
Campers
brought from our Partnership2Gether region in Israel to Tamarack Camps since 2002
Through the Michael & Elaine Serling Israeli Camper Program, lifelong ties between Detroit and Israel are created.
14,696
Dinners
served during Shabbats at Michigan Hillel
A tradition that brings students together, fostering connection and Jewish identity on campus and beyond.
7,883
Students
involved with MSU Hillel, Michigan Hillel and Hillel of Metro Detroit
A vibrant network of Hillels fosters Jewish life, leadership, and community for college students on campuses across Michigan.
1,200
Children
supported through Jewish Family Service’s Opening the Doors program
Inclusive education and tailored support help individuals with diverse learning, social or emotional needs thrive.
65
Countries
served by JAFI helping Jewish individuals in need around the world
Global reach provides care, connection and support to Jewish communities in need everywhere.
850+
Residents
served by Jewish Senior Living
The Taubman and Applebaum Campuses provide a welcoming home and supportive community for Jewish Detroit seniors.

GET
INVOLVED

Whether you’re a volunteer, a donor or a participant at one of our programs, you’re making a difference in our community and changing lives—including your own.

news & information

News &
Information

News From Israel & Overseas
July 8, 2026

JFD Supported – Excerpts From ICAR Collective’s June Newsletter


As Israel continues to live through uncertainty, security threats, reserve duty, displacement and the daily strain of prolonged crisis, the emotional toll on children and families is becoming harder to […]

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News From Israel & Overseas
July 8, 2026

Hebrew Word of the Month – Kapara (כפרה)


by Aaron Poris, Senior Associate, Israel & Overseas From Ancient Atonement to Modern Israeli Affection Just about anyone who has spent time in Israel has heard this word. Grandmothers say it […]

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News From Israel & Overseas
July 8, 2026

Staff Highlight: Aaron Poris


Beginning in January of this year, Aaron Poris joined the Jewish Federation of Detroit as Senior Associate in the Israel & Overseas Department. His portfolio centers around overseeing JFD Missions abroad, educational and internship pro

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News From Israel & Overseas
July 6, 2026

Shnat Sherut 50+ — Live. Volunteer. Belong.


What if your next chapter looked like this: a private room in an Israeli community, real relationships with real neighbors, and volunteer work that really matters—not as a tourist, but […]

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