September 19, 2025
If there is one lesson we’ve learned this past year, it is that none of us are ever truly alone.
The beauty of Jewish life—especially here in Detroit—is that we are bound together by our traditions, our shared values and our unshakable sense of responsibility to each other. This truth has carried us through an extraordinarily difficult chapter in our history.
Nearly two years after October 7, the echo of that terrible day continues to reverberate. Hostages remain in captivity, Israel continues to defend itself against terror and the scourge of antisemitism persists across the globe. Yet even in the face of these painful realities, our Jewish community has remained strong, rooted in resolve and purpose.
Indeed, this past year has illuminated something extraordinary: the unshakable spirit of the Jewish people. In communities across North America, in Israel and throughout the world, we have come together with courage and compassion, standing side by side to care for one another and to defend our shared future.
These times remind us why the Federation exists: To ensure that the most vulnerable among us are cared for with dignity and compassion, and that our institutions remain safe and secure. To create opportunities for every member of our community to live a rich and meaningful Jewish life—grounded in tradition, filled with purpose and connected to one another. To stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Israel and with our Jewish brothers and sisters around the world.
It is only possible thanks to the generosity and dedication of our supporters, including over ten thousand individual donors who have invested in Jewish Detroit this year, along with our major Jewish community foundations.
As we prepare to welcome the New Year, we can reflect with gratitude on the rich and diverse fabric of Jewish life in our community. It is also a time to look ahead with hope and determination.
We are deeply grateful for your support and your unwavering commitment to our community. On behalf of the Jewish Federation and United Jewish Foundation of Detroit, we extend to you and your loved ones our warmest wishes for a shanah tovah u’metukah—a happy, healthy New Year filled with meaning and purpose.
Shabbat shalom.
Brian Hermelin
President, Jewish Federation of Detroit
Michael Berger
President, United Jewish Foundation
Steven Ingber
CEO, Jewish Federation of Detroit