I recently had the incredible opportunity to visit Israel with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland where I attended the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) General Assembly in Tel Aviv, along with the Israel at 70 Mission that took a deep dive in more remote communities.

We welcome all the women who will be leading our strong, vibrant community in the coming year and thank you to all of our outgoing chairs for their dedication.

In the weeks leading up to his Dec. 31 retirement, Jewish Federation of Cleveland President Stephen H. Hoffman’s office appeared ready for an impromptu meeting. Photos and gifts adorned with plaques engraved with names of organizations he’s worked with were still strewn around the room. Unlike others who may be preparing to vacate their office, not one cardboard box sat waiting to be filled.

Like most college freshmen, Alejandra Fishman arrived on the campus of Kent State University feeling equal parts excited and nervous. The native of Puerto Rico chose Kent State University to study at the Shannon Rodgers and Jerry Silverman School of Fashion Design and Merchandising. Moving to Northeast Ohio for college was a change for her, but it felt like home immediately after stepping on campus.

A true demonstration of “The Impact of Together!” Over 10,000 community members raised more than $32.7 million to help care for one another, prepare for the future, share our perspectives, and repair our world.

Tomer Oren fought on reserve duty during during Israel’s Operation Protective Edge in the summer of 2014. While he returned home physically sound, he was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Months later, his daughter was sent to the ICU for a life-threatening condition. Oren participated in The Jewish Agency's Beit Shean/Valley of Springs - Cleveland Partnership within Partnership2Gether (P2G), The Jewish Agency’s strategic initiative that connects the Jewish people by creating enduring relationships between Israel and Jewish communities of the Diaspora. “When I look back at these two episodes — how P2G helped me recover from the shock of battle, and helped to save my daughter’s life — I understand very well the miracle that happened to me and my family.”

The Jewish Federation of Cleveland will announce the total amount raised in the 2019 Campaign for Jewish Needs Dec. 12 at Beatrice J. Stone Yavne High School in Beachwood during the annual Campaign Closing Celebration.