Last week, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland shared an update with our community in response to the recent antisemitic attack on Temple Israel in Detroit. Today, we are following up with ways you can get involved in Jewish Cleveland through an upcoming briefing on the war with Iran, security trainings, and advocacy opportunities.

Jim Hartnett, the David P. Miller Director of Community Wide Security at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, advised that upon notification early on the morning of Feb. 28 that the U.S., and Israel were attacking Iran, he immediately initiated contact with the Cleveland FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, Ohio Department of Public Safety and area police chiefs to discuss the Jewish community’s security situation and request added police visibility at area synagogues.

JFC Security helps keep Jewish Cleveland safe by promoting a “culture of security” through education, target hardening, training, and partnerships with law enforcement. Watch the video to learn more.

At Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland’s Camp Wise in Claridon Township, a Jewish Federation of Cleveland beneficiary agency, hundreds of children arrive each summer ready for the simple joys of Jewish camp – friendship, nature, discovery and belonging. Ensuring that those moments remain safe, even in a changing world, requires both vigilance and creativity. That’s why this year, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland and JFC Security, LLC – Federation’s security provider – introduced a cutting-edge, tethered drone pilot program at Camp Wise — an innovative step that reflects thoughtful, proactive planning.

The congregants at Congregation Mishkan Or had just settled. Hundreds turned their attention to the bimah and awaited the first solemn notes of Kol Nidre, one of the most moving melodies of the High Holy Days. But before the gathering of Jews could begin their Yom Kippur service, Rabbi Yael Dadoun made an announcement.

On Oct. 27, 2018, a deadly attack at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh shook Jewish and other communities everywhere. The ripple effect could be felt throughout the country the tragic events of that Shabbat morning dominated headlines and newscasts for days, prompting Jewish communities like Cleveland to take action.

Members of the Tactical Medicine Division from the EMS Training & Disaster Preparedness Institute at University Hospitals visited the Jewish Federation of Cleveland on Aug. 11 to provide officers from JFC Security, LLC , the Federation’s security provider, with a hands-on training course, titled “Tactical Emergency Casualty Care,” on trauma care and bleeding control.

This summer, JFC Security, LLC – Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s security provider – introduced a new layer of protection at Mandel JCC’s Camp Wise through a cutting-edge drone security pilot program. Operated by JFC Security personnel, the tethered drone system is part of JFC Security’s ongoing effort to incorporate emerging technologies that can further enhance safety across community spaces.

We hope to see you at our June events! This month, community members can volunteer at the Hebrew Cultural Garden, attend a community security training, view our latest art exhibit in the Roe Green Gallery, and more.

When launched in 2013, JFC Security, LLC – the security provider of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland – was focused on establishing our four core pillars to build our community security program around: creating safety awareness, target hardening our facilities, community-based training, and strengthening law enforcement partnerships. Over the years, the security team has grown in its size and scope of capabilities to protect the Cleveland Jewish community. Today, the team now comprises 60 officers and utilizes sophisticated security technology to help keep our community safe while also remaining open and welcoming.