Category: Community Spotlight

One-sentence reflections from Jewish Detroiters.

May is Jewish American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich history, values and contributions of Jewish Americans. In that spirit, we asked Jewish Detroiters what makes them proud to be Jewish Americans.

“I’m proud to be a Jewish American because being Jewish represents the spirit of social justice as well as equality and solidarity despite attempts to keep us down.” Julie Smith

“I am proud to be a Jewish American when I welcome Shabbat by lighting candles on our porch, sharing a calm evening with Jews around the world, and when I volunteer to host Israeli campers, learning about them and their families while offering a joyful weekend on the lake.” Marcy Spitz

“Being a proud American Jew means feeling a deep connection to our Jewish community, history and traditions while embracing American culture, opportunities and liberties!” Marlo Scott

“I am proud to be Jewish because I’m proud to be part of a community that is rooted in tradition, loves and accepts endlessly, gives generously and perseveres.” Carly Sheridan

“I am proud to be a Jewish American because our heritage instills an unshakable communal responsibility to uplift a vibrant Jewish future, a value I strive to live out every day.” Tessa Hewitson

“What makes me most proud to be a Jewish American is that I have the freedom to travel to Israel and see firsthand the true resilience, kindness, passion for living life to its fullest and compassion for all people that define our communities both in Metro Detroit and throughout the world.” Joe Cooper

“I am proud to be a Jewish American because our community here is incredible. We show up for our people here and around the world.” Alice M.

“I’m proud to be part of a Jewish community that supports each other.” Rhonda Linovitz

“Living in a retirement community that is predominantly non-Jewish, I feel especially grateful, as a fellow American, to have the opportunity and privilege of educating others and sharing the deeply felt values and traditions of Judaism.” Barbara Gash

“I am proud of our people everywhere in the world, and as American Jews, we care about family, our community and other communities. We show up for those who need support, from the Civil Rights Movement to marginalized groups today.” Laurie G.

These voices are one way our community is honoring Jewish American Heritage Month. This year, our Community Relations Department also helped secure proclamations recognizing the month from Governor Whitmer, Huntington Woods, Southfield and Madison Heights.

Thanks to your support of our Annual Campaign, Federation and our agency partners create meaningful ways to explore heritage, deepen Jewish identity and bring our community together—all year long.

As she concludes her term as Women’s Philanthropy (WP) President at the Jewish Federation of Detroit, Nancy Glen reflects on a leadership journey defined by listening, meaningful relationships and a deep commitment to Jewish community. That approach will be recognized when she is honored for her service at the upcoming Women’s Philanthropy Annual Meeting. At its core is a simple, powerful belief: people do their best work—and build the strongest community—when they feel heard.

That approach, steady, intentional and relationship-driven has helped cultivate trust among donors, volunteers and partners, and has reinforced Women’s Philanthropy as a place where more women can find belonging, purpose and a meaningful way to give back.

Michigan roots, community values

A Southfield native, Nancy attended Michigan State University and the University of Detroit Law School before making her home in Huntington Woods with her husband, Ralph, and raising their three children. Shaped by her upbringing and a strong sense of community, she brings a gift for connection into her volunteer life—showing up consistently, seeking out perspectives, and helping others feel seen and valued.

A leadership path built on service

Throughout her long-time involvement with Federation and Women’s Philanthropy, Nancy has stepped into roles that shape both strategy and impact—from Planning and Allocations to Partnership2Gether and Campaign leadership. Today, she serves on Federation’s Executive Committee and Board of Governors. In every setting, she leads with intention and a strong sense of Jewish values—creating space for honest conversation and encouraging others to bring their ideas to the table.

Committed to Israel and the Jewish future

Nancy’s Federation involvement reflects a strong commitment to Jewish peoplehood, meeting needs close to home while also sustaining the connections that strengthen Jewish life and community. In her view, philanthropy isn’t only about the dollars raised—it is also about identity, continuity and helping every generation feel connected to something larger than themselves.

There are countless ways to measure leadership—funds raised, programs strengthened, new people welcomed in. For Nancy, the through line has been consistent: authenticity, listening and an unwavering commitment to helping more women feel connected to Women’s Philanthropy and the Federation’s mission. We had the chance to sit down with Nancy and find out just what makes her Federation involvement so special.

On leadership: When you think about your time as a Federation and WP leader, what leadership lesson has guided you most?

A guiding principle for me was authenticity. I hope that I fostered and built a sense of trust, that women and donors see my commitment to the mission as genuine. I hope I have led with honesty and integrity that is anchored in tradition and our Jewish identity and values.

I hope that by leading with purpose, I inspired others to act with the same intention.

On listening: You’ve shared that “everyone has a voice, and everyone’s voice matters.” How did that principle shape the way you led WP and partnered with staff and lay leaders?

That principle was a cornerstone of my leadership style. By actively seeking out perspectives that don’t always align with my own, I believe I was able to build trust among staff and lay leaders. Being respectful of others and providing people the space to share is fundamental to our Jewish values. Not only does it foster a sense of community and belonging, it also encourages openness and empathy where every person feels heard and invested in our collective success.

On impact: What are you proudest of accomplishing during your presidency, especially moments that reflect WP’s collective strength?

Providing women a sense of belonging. Expand our community of women and empowering them to find their place and purpose within WP and the Federation.

Our annual Signature community fundraisers allowed women to share meaningful experiences and celebrate our philanthropic efforts. Our Pappas Impaction Mission to Israel confirmed our strong and ongoing commitment to the future of our people, while our recent trip to Mexico City provided education and connection. And collectively we brought Jewish joy even in dark times.

On Federation’s mission: What do you wish more people understood about what Federation makes possible—here in Detroit, in Israel, and globally?

That each person understands they are touched in some way by the work of Federation.

That Federation’s collaboration with local organizations amplifies the impact of our initiatives.

That engaging in philanthropy strengthens our Jewish and cultural identity for every generation.

On the future: As you transition from WP President, what excites you about what’s next for Women’s Philanthropy and for Federation?

What excites me most is the incredible momentum we’ve built around engagement and philanthropy. The passion and compassion women bring to this work is the heartbeat of our Federation. Seeing the next generation’s dedication to our community is inspiring and gives me immense confidence in our future. As I transition, I look forward to seeing energy continue to expand and transform more lives.

On Wednesday evening, May 13, our community will gather for one of the most meaningful and joyful moments on the Jewish Federation of Detroit calendar: Awards Night 2026. Hosted at The Berman Center for the Performing Arts at The J in West Bloomfield, this annual celebration brings us together to honor extraordinary individuals whose leadership and commitment help make Jewish Detroit strong, vibrant, and enduring.

Awards Night is more than a ceremony. It is a night that reminds us that while our community may be built through institutions and programs, it is sustained by people who show up, care, and choose to lead. It is a living expression of who we are as a community and what we value most. Each year, we pause to recognize people who have chosen not only to belong to Jewish Detroit, but to shape it—to give of their time, talents, and hearts in ways that strengthen Jewish life today and secure it for generations to come.

At the heart of the evening are the recipients of the William Davidson Lifetime Achievement Award, the Federation’s highest honor. This year, we are proud to recognize Lawrence Lax and Betsy Snider Heuer—two individuals whose lifelong dedication to Jewish Detroit exemplifies what it means to lead with integrity, and purpose. Named in memory of the late William Davidson, of blessed memory, this award honors those whose sustained commitment has shaped the future of our community in profound and lasting ways. Lawrence and Betsy each have given decades of thoughtful leadership and service to our Jewish community.

Awards Night also celebrates the future of Jewish Detroit through the Young Leadership Awards, recognizing individuals who are stepping forward with energy, creativity, and a deep sense of responsibility to our community. The Frank A. Wetsman Young Leadership Award will be presented to Adam Bleznak, honoring a young man who demonstrates exceptional leadership potential, as well as interest in and service to Federation. The Sylvia Simon Greenberg Young Leadership Award, presented to Samantha Foon, recognizing an outstanding emerging young woman in the community who demonstrates leadership and service to the Federation, its partner agencies and the Annual Campaign. And the Mark-Lis Family Young Leadership Award will honor Jennifer Maxbauer. It recognizes an established young leader who has shown outstanding commitment and achieved remarkable success within Federation’s NEXTGen Detroit department.

Together, these young leaders represent something deeply hopeful. They remind us that Jewish Detroit is not standing still—but growing, evolving, and being shaped by a new generation ready to take responsibility for what comes next.

Another highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Mandell L. and Madeleine H. Berman Award for Outstanding Jewish Communal Service, honoring Rabbi Michele Faye Faudem. This award recognizes exceptional professional leadership within Jewish communal life—those who serve not for recognition, but out of deep devotion to people and purpose. Rabbi Faudem’s work reflects the vital role that dedicated professionals play alongside lay leaders in sustaining the institutions, values, and connections that hold our community together.

“Awards Night is our opportunity to pause and shine a light on the people who give Jewish Detroit its strength and heart,” said Steven Ingber, Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Detroit. “Each of this year’s honorees leads with intention, generosity, and a deep sense of responsibility to our community. Their contributions—spanning decades of service and the bold leadership of a new generation—remind us that our future is built by people who care deeply and act selflessly. On behalf of our entire Federation family, we congratulate our 2026 award recipients and thank them for all they have done, and continue to do, to strengthen Jewish life in Detroit.”

We invite you to be part of this special evening on Wednesday, May 13 at 7:00 pm, at The Berman Center for the Performing Arts, The J, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield. Come celebrate the leaders who inspire us, the values that unite us, and the community we are proud to call home.

Please register online at jewishdetroit.org/awards

Together, let us honor the past, celebrate the present, and look confidently toward the future—one leader, one story, and one community at a time.

Jewish Senior Life is Searching for Honorees 95 and Up.

There’s a special kind of wisdom that comes from living through nearly a century of history, building families, careers and community and passing Jewish tradition from generation to generation. This June, Jewish Detroit will once again come together to honor those guiding lights at the 25th annual Bessie Spector (z”l) Oldest Jewish Americans Celebration, presented in partnership with Jewish Senior Life (JSL) and local agencies serving older adults.

This year’s theme, “A Broadway Salute to our Greatest Generation!”, sets the stage for a morning of connection, recognition and song. Honorees, family and friends will gather for brunch and a program featuring a Broadway theme designed to get the whole room singing.

Do you know someone who is 95 or older by December 31, 2026? Community members are encouraged to help identify honorees so they can receive the recognition they’ve earned for helping build and strengthen Jewish Detroit. All eligible nominees will be invited to take part in this community celebration.

Event Details

Friday, June 12, 2026 at Adat Shalom Synagogue (29901 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills). Registration begins at 10:30 a.m., followed by brunch and program at 11:15 a.m. Dietary laws observed. Honorees are invited free of charge with one guest; additional attendees are $45 per person.

The celebration is generously sponsored by the Bessie Spector (z”l) family and community supporters, and presented through a partnership with Jewish Senior Life, Jewish Family Service, The J – Detroit, the Jewish Federation of Detroit and Gesher Human Services. Together, these organizations reflect Jewish Detroit’s deep commitment to kavod (honor) and care for older adults.

To register an honoree or learn more, contact Beth Robinson at (248) 592-5062 or brobinson@jslmi.org.

You can take the Detroiter out of Michigan, but you can’t take the Michigan out of the Detroiter.

For generations, Jewish Detroiters have carried their sense of community wherever life takes them. No matter the miles, the memories and traditions travel too. This February, Federation is bringing that familiar spirit to South Florida.

On Wednesday, February 4, Detroiters living in or visiting Florida are invited to gather for a casual morning of coffee, conversation and connection at B’nai Torah Congregation in Boca Raton. This special gathering is a chance to reconnect with familiar faces, catch-up on the latest work from Federation and strengthen the ties that keep our community close no matter where we call home.

“Community doesn’t stop at state lines,” says Steven Ingber, Federation’s CEO. “Our Detroit family is everywhere, and these moments of reconnection are what keep us strong. Whether you’ve been in Florida for years or you’re just escaping the winter for a few months or weeks, we want you to feel that sense of belonging.”

More than a social event, this gathering offers a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with the values and vision that shape Detroit’s Jewish community. Ingber emphasizes that the Federation’s work is rooted in relationships. “We’re not just an organization; we’re a network of people who care deeply about each other and about the future of Jewish life,” he says. “When we come together, even hundreds of miles from home, we strengthen that foundation.”

The Boca event will also offer an update on what’s happening back in Detroit—from innovative programs for teens and in our Partnership2Gether region, to initiatives supporting vulnerable populations. “There’s so much to be proud of,” Ingber notes. “And it’s important for our extended community to know that their support makes a real difference. Every conversation, every connection, helps us build a stronger, more vibrant Jewish Detroit.”

Guests will be greeted with coffee, danish (kosher), and ample time to connect with one another, get caught up, have their questions answered—and celebrate the enduring ties that bind Detroiters together—no matter where life takes them.

Register to Join Us 

Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 11:00 am
Place: B’nai Torah Congregation
6261 SW 18th Street, Boca Raton, FL
Register Here

This event is open to all donors to the Jewish Federation of Detroit’s 2026 Annual Campaign. If you haven’t made your gift yet, you can do so when registering. Space is limited. Please register by January 30, 2026.

For more information, contact Marianne Bloomberg at bloomberg@jewishdetroit.org or 248-642-4611

Mid-November brought unsettling news: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits were to be paused due to the government shutdown. For many in our community, that moment marked the beginning of uncertainty, fear and a question no one should ever have to ask: Will we have enough to eat?

Federation—together with agencies on the front lines of food insecurity—didn’t wait for answers. 

The Moment the News Broke
When news of a potential funding pause was announced, Federation jumped into action. Together with Jewish Family Service (JFS), Yad Ezra and others, Federation mobilized emergency funding and expanded food distributions. The goal was simple: keep the lifeline going.

“This was a moment when, as soon as it was known that the SNP program was going to stop in Michigan, Steven Ingber and Federation said, ‘How can we help?!’” shared Perry Ohren, CEO of JFS. He added, “Social problems are equal opportunity employers. In this case, there are Jews who struggle with poverty, many of whom receive SNAP.”

A Surge in Need
The impact was immediate. On the very first day of the shutdown, Yad Ezra—our community’s kosher food pantry—saw double the usual number of clients. While Yad Ezra is not a partner agency, Federation stepped in to make sure their shelves stayed stocked and their client’s needs were met. Federation also worked directly with United Way to help expand resources to the broader community.

Stories Behind the Numbers
JFS coordinated an all-hands-on-deck response, supported by Federation. “In just days, we distributed $77,525 in food assistance to 334 households, totaling 1,102 individuals who didn’t have to wonder where their next meal would come from,” said Ohren.

Behind those numbers are real people—and powerful stories. One older gentleman came to JFS for help. Assisted by Russian-speaking staff, they learned he was born in 1939 in Kharkiv, Ukraine. This discovery opened the door to possible additional support, as he could qualify as a Nazi Victim and be eligible for resources funded by the Claims Conference. JFS staff got to work, helping him gather documentation and file forms within a week. Today, he’s enrolled as a JFS client and, as a newly recognized Holocaust survivor, will receive ongoing support—proof that a moment of crisis can lead to lasting care.

A Safety Net in Action
“Over the years, Federation has built a powerful safety net with our partner agencies and other Jewish social service organizations across the community,” said Steven Ingber, Federation CEO. “These relationships aren’t new; they’re part of a longstanding ecosystem that ensures no one in our community faces hardship alone. What’s different now is the speed and scale of the response.”

“The moment SNAP benefits were paused, we were able to immediately provide funding to community agencies and expand food distributions. That kind of rapid, coordinated action is only possible because of the trust and infrastructure we’ve built together over many years.”

A Crisis Within a Crisis
Even before the government shutdown, food insecurity was a growing concern—especially among seniors, single-parent households and lower-income working families. The SNAP pause created a “crisis within a crisis.” Many in our community depend on these benefits to help feed their families. When that lifeline suddenly stops, the ripple effects are immediate and severe.

“That’s why we stepped in right away to fill the gap. Our role is to make sure that no one falls through the cracks—to provide both emergency relief and the long-term support that keeps our community strong and connected,” added Ingber.

Powered by Generosity
Ultimately, this response doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s made possible by the generosity of community donors—whose gifts give Federation the flexibility to act quickly when emergencies arise. We’re incredibly grateful to them, and to our partners at JFS, Yad Ezra and others on the frontline of food insecurity, for reminding us what it means to be a caring Jewish community.

This is what Federation is here for: to make sure no one is left behind, and that even in uncertain times, our community remains resilient, compassionate and united.

By Becky Maister
Federation Associate Director of Community Development Marketing 

When asked to write a list of “8 Things That Bring Me Joy in Jewish Detroit” I had two thoughts 1) Only eight? But I get it, Chanukah-themed… And 2) I’m going to name names. So, while this may not be the all-inclusive list one might expect from a Federation publication, it’s my list, and I have specific tastes.

1. Hometown Pride
I am a born and bred Detroiter. My first home was in North Rosedale Park, and when I was five we moved to Farmington Hills. I’ve have spent my entire life in the area, cheering for the Tigers and drinking Vernors. But I’ve also traveled and spent time in other communities, and I can say that there’s just something about our brand of hometown pride that no one can touch. Not New Yorkers, not Chicagoans. We love being from Detroit, especially Jewish Detroit, and we’ve got the sweatshirts and hats to prove it. Whether you’ve been here your whole life like me, or we were lucky enough to import you from another city, the pride of being from Jewish Detroit is palpable, and it brings me joy.

2. Our Jewish Federation
I have been employed at the Federation for almost 12 years now, and I will honestly say that when I started, I was borderline clueless about what our Federation does. Now, over a decade in, I am a walking encyclopedia of our mission, agencies, events and initiatives. It’s not like, “what do we do?” But more like “what don’t we do?” I mean, what other organization throws the best parties for 20-somethings in town for Thanksgiving and gets over a thousand people to celebrate Israel’s Independence Day, and at the same time responds to local and global crises, from floods and earthquakes to wars and mass evacuations. If supporting 16 incredible local agencies wasn’t enough, Federation also supports three agencies that help Jews overseas. What makes me joyful in Jewish Detroit? My job. This Federation.

2. Think Sweet
See, I told you I was going to name names. When the Dubai chocolate craze began, I was very pregnant, and this particular confection sounded like heaven on earth. Yes, there was Dubai chocolate in Metro Detroit, but my husband grew up keeping a very stringent form of kosher (cholov Yisroel for those keeping score at home), and when we got married I inherited these stringencies. I scoured stores and websites; my options were slim. I eventually ordered a $40 bar from New York. Yes, $40. It was parve. It tasted like wax. And I immediately had buyer’s remorse. Fast forward a few months and Think Sweet opens. With not only multiple options of dairy (kosher for me) Dubai chocolate bars, and everything else Dubai chocolate, but a whole candy shop and hang out area. My kids love it. I love it. As a kosher-keeping family, I have to say “no” a lot when their little hands reach for something in a store. But at Think Sweet I can almost always say yes. Which now that I write that out, may not be a good thing, but nevertheless, we love going there and enjoying a kosher treat in a colorful oasis.

3. Farber Hebrew Day School
Again with the name drops! But seriously, I love our school. We’re still new to the Farber family. I have two in the ECC. But so far, we are delighted with the education and love our children are receiving. They’re proud to be Jewish. They have a love of the Hebrew language. They have gym and music. They do science and art projects. They adore their teachers and their buddies. And one of the best parts about going to this Jewish day school is that we got to choose it. We had options, good options. There are many a community in the United States where you’re lucky if there is one Jewish day school. We have multiple Jewish day schools in Metro Detroit offering excellent religious and secular educations to Jewish children of all backgrounds. Talk about joy!

5. Soul Cafe
Where else can you order breakfast burrito and feel good about your life choices? I love Soul Cafe. I love the food. I love the ambiance. I love the mission. I love the art. I love taking my family out to brunch and strolling through the gallery. If I ever need a hostess gift or a present for someone visiting from out-of-town, this is my go-to place to shop. I think we are so blessed to have this extension of Friendship Circle in our community. It’s delicious, it’s inspiring, and it’s obviously on my top 8 joyful things in Jewish Detroit.

6. My Neighborhood
We moved to North Oak Park a little over two years ago, and it is awesome. This neighborhood is where it’s at. There are a lot of Jews around here, but it’s not all Jews. We live in a beautifully diverse area, so we can enjoy other people’s Christmas lights and Halloween decorations while also watching everyone walk to shul on Shabbos morning. There are cool bars and restaurants popping up all over. There are beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. Our pharmacy (shout out to Lincoln Drugs) is on the corner, and they got a soft serve ice cream machine this past summer, which is a game changer. We’re close to friends all along the Woodward Corridor. Joyful North Oak Park.

7. Menorah in the D
Fifteen years and going strong, Menorah in the D is one of those holiday traditions that really makes it feel like Chanukah time. I’ve been to other public menorah lightings, and let me tell you, none are as lit (pun intended) as this one. It brings me so much joy to live in a place where a 26-foot menorah stands in the center of downtown and everyone, including the Mayor of Detroit and countless dignitaries, show up year after year to celebrate lighting it. Especially this year, just hours after the horrific tragedy at Bondi Beach, Chabad-Lubavitch of Michigan ensured the show went on and we publicized the miracle of Chanukah as proud, brave, united Jews.

8. Something for Everyone
If there’s one universal truth I have learned on my personal Jewish journey, it’s that there is no one-size-fits-all way to be Jewish. Being Jewish is beautiful. It’s also complicated and challenging, oftentimes evolving and morphing into something new and different depending on where you are in life. Living in a place that can accommodate and embrace these twists and turns is a gift. Jewish Detroit has something for every Jew. Whether it’s a traditional temple or synagogue setting, volunteering in a garden or at a warehouse, learning with a chavrusa or in a class, or simply just eating your favorite Jewish foods — you can explore, express and expand your Judaism here. You belong here. You can find your people here. You can find your Jewish joy here. I know I have.

JCSI’s Ongoing Role in Community Protection 

Every day, Jewish Detroiters come together in synagogues, schools and community spaces. Today, when antisemitism and threats against Jewish communities are rising at alarming rates—security is more important than ever. 

That’s why the Federation supported Jewish Community Security, Inc. (JCSI) exists: to ensure Jewish Detroit can worship, learn and gather with confidence and peace of mind.  

The scale of that responsibility is enormous: 

• Protecting 80,000 Jewish Detroit community members 

• Covering 183 square miles across metropolitan Detroit 

• Securing 17 Jewish organizations and nearly 1,200 facilities (schools, offices, living facilities, camps, campuses) 

• Safeguarding 45 synagogues 

For almost 20 years, JCSI has been bringing together know-how, strong partnerships and national resources to help keep our community safe. Here are their guiding principles: 

READ MORE 

JCSI’s work centers on three core strategies: 

Protection 

• State-of-the-art technology, enter and exit controls, and proprietary protocols 

• Regular security patrols that create layers of deterrence and provide early warning 

• Hardened facilities that transform Jewish institutions into stronger, safer spaces 

Visibility 

• A presence that deters threats while reassuring community members 

• Trained security officers stationed at synagogues, agencies, schools and camps 

• Familiar, highly trained professionals who know our institutions and are ready to respond quickly 

Training 

• Situational awareness and emergency response workshops 

• Preparedness programs for staff, volunteers and community members 

• A culture of vigilance that empowers everyone, not just security personnel, to play a role 

• As Gary Sikorski, JCSI’s Director, explains: “Training is a cornerstone of what we do. We want every institution and every individual to feel prepared and supported.” 

Partnerships That Multiply Impact 

No single agency can meet the challenge our community faces alone. One of JCSI’s strengths comes from well-ingrained partnerships: 

Law Enforcement 

• Collaboration with local police, county sheriffs, state authorities and federal agencies 

• Intelligence sharing and coordinated responses that strengthen protection at every level 

National Jewish Security Network 

• Connection to the Secure Community Network (SCN), the official security partner of Jewish Federations of North America 

• Access to real-time threat intelligence, best practices and strategies developed by Jewish communities nationwide 

Proactive, Not Reactive 

Security is about prevention. JCSI continuously monitors risks, analyzes threats and maintains constant communication with community partners. The focus is always on anticipating challenges before they occur. 

As Sikorski puts it: “We continuously monitor potential risks and keep our partners informed, always with the goal of being proactive, not reactive.” 

A Community-Wide Effort 

JCSI provides the expertise, but safety is everyone’s responsibility. Our community plays a critical role by staying aware, reporting suspicious activity and embracing the “see something, say something” principle. Together, professional security teams and engaged community members create the strongest possible shield for Jewish Detroit. 

As we enter Yom Kippur, we can take comfort knowing JCSI is working tirelessly to safeguard our community—so that Jewish Detroit can gather, worship, study and live with peace of mind. 

You can learn more about JCSI’s work here. You can report a concern and see a list of the types of activities to be on the lookout for here.  

Transitioning From Sorrow to Song 

By Lior Zisser-Yogev, Community Shlicha (Israeli Emissary)

Two years since that morning, when all of Israel woke up to the sound of sirens and explosions, running to shelters, glued to the news and consumed with fear for their loved ones in the south.

Two years since the tragedy that, even now, continues to unfold as we hear more and more of the harrowing testimonies from that dark day. Two years in which the State of Israel, and the entire Jewish people, rise every morning to a surreal reality we never imagined.

And yet, amid the chaos and pain we are still living through, we make the difficult, unbelievable choice … to keep living.

It reminds me of my own teenage years, when I was a member of the HaNoar HaOved VeHaLomed (the Working and Learning Youth) youth movement. A massive youth organization of young leaders that always felt like a second home to me. A place where I felt I belonged, and where I had the chance to contribute and make an impact.

Ever since I was 12, twice a week, I attended activities with my friends, guided by young leaders who, although only two years older than me, were my role models. I went on hikes and joined national gatherings and conferences during school breaks.

At those big events, we would all gather in front of a makeshift stage, singing and dancing along with the movement’s youth band—a group of teenagers who performed with incredible energy and enthusiasm, inspiring crowds of hundreds of teens. The lyrics of one of those songs stayed with me, “The 70-Year Song”, written in 1994 for the movement’s 70th anniversary:

“These are youth who knew how to dream, and in their dream they drew a living map of beauty in the land; a map of beauty in our hearts, a map of peace upon the battle grounds…”

Those words come back to me now, as I think about the movement that shaped me and has since grown into Dror Israel, the alumni organization carrying those same values into Israeli society. The teens who grew up in the movement became young adults who wanted to lead, to make an impact and to build a just, inclusive and equal society in Israel. Those are the values I was raised on, and to this day, Dror Israel works to bring them to life through schools, youth programs, community initiatives and social action in times of crisis.

We in the Jewish community of Detroit are proud partners in this work. For years, the Jewish Federation of Detroit has supported Dror Israel, and since October 7th, that support has only deepened through our Emergency Campaign. Together, we have helped fund temporary schools and educational activities for displaced children and families, therapeutic and rehabilitative programs for those traumatized by the attacks and the war, along with expanded activities across Israel to help communities return to daily life in an unimaginable reality.

Join us for “From Sorrow to Song.”
Sunday, October 5, 2025, 7:00 pM at Temple Beth El.

As we mark two years since October 7th and the ongoing war that continues to take a heavy toll on Israeli society, we will gather as a community to honor this work and to recognize the daily efforts in Israel to rebuild, strengthen, and ensure that the Jewish state not only survives, but grows stronger and more resilient.

We will come together to hear the moving music of HaShayara, a band made up of HaNoar HaOved VeHaLomed alumni and activists in Dror Israel. They will share stories and experiences from life in Israel over the past two years, along with songs of comfort and hope.

As someone who grew up in this youth movement, I feel immense pride seeing the impact it continues to make throughout Israel and in Jewish communities around the world. I am inspired by the resilience and strength of young Israelis who, despite trauma and loss, continue to believe in Israel’s future and work tirelessly to spread light even in the darkest times.

“These are youth who knew how to dream, and in their dream they drew a living map of beauty in the land; a map of beauty in our hearts, a map of peace upon the battle grounds…”

We look forward to seeing you at our community commemoration. To share memories and sorrow. To find comfort and resilience. And most of all, to regain hope as we look to the future and choose life.

Pre-registration is required. Please register here.