Every moment matters
For a Jewish community of our size, every moment matters. These moments work together to create a ripple effect that influences each of us. In my first year as Director of Community Engagement, I’ve seen the impact of these moments firsthand and I truly believe they fuel our community in those small, but powerful ways.
That moment when a family visits for an evening of crafts and snacks as we prepare to decorate our community sukka. That moment when a child looks around the room in awe as they realize there are others here, from different backgrounds, that share similar traditions. These are moments that matter.
When members of our NEXTGen group come together to explore new destinations and share time with one another, these are moments that matter. We are unique as a small community to have young adults from diverse backgrounds share a sense of purpose in strengthening their bond to the Jewish people while growing together as leaders in our community.
When a senior citizen receives a timely wellness check or a prompt ride to a doctor’s appointment, our Jewish Family Services shows us that even small gestures on the surface can carry the most meaning for an individual. Showing that we care in a moment of need is something we can never take for granted.
My point is these moments create even more moments, so often reaching our broader community. For example, at the University of Notre Dame, we continually connect with others who also understand the importance of sharing Jewish arts and culture during our annual Michiana Jewish Film Festival. This partnership offers a collection of moments through fellowship and discussion, both during and after screenings.
At the Jewish Federation, making every moment matter is what we’re all about. With your support, we can continue this momentous energy and learn from each other. On Thursday, October 26th, we kick off our 2024 Annual Campaign and our new shaliach, Omer Karavani, will share about the important moments that brought him to our community from his home in Ashkelon, Israel.
Please make your reservation to join us at TheJewishFed.org/2024 or give us call at (574) 233-1164. I look forward to sharing this moment and many more with you in the year ahead.
Steve Lotter
Director of Community Engagement,
Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley
Phone: (574) 233-1164
Email: steve@thejewishfed.org