Reflections on a season of connection

Nammie Ichilov, Federation President & CEO

In Pirkei Avot, Rabbi Hillel teaches us that we should “not separate [ourselves] from the community.” These ancient words resonate deeply as I reflect on my first “season,” where thousands of community members have come together through shared experiences that strengthened our collective bonds.

Like the story of Ruth, whose loyalty and commitment we read during the holiday of Shavuot, our community demonstrates that true belonging comes from choosing to walk together, supporting one another through both celebration and challenge. Ruth’s declaration to Naomi, “Your people shall be my people,” reminds us that community is built through deliberate choices to remain connected.

This sentiment feels particularly meaningful this month as we celebrate Yom Ha'atzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day) and Yom Yerushalayim (Jerusalem Day), honoring Israel's independence and the reunification of Jerusalem. These milestone celebrations connect us to our homeland while strengthening our local community through shared joy and tradition.

Our recent program season exemplifies this spirit of togetherness. More than 10 distinguished authors visited during our Jewish Book Festival, sharing stories that sparked meaningful conversations about our heritage and values. Our Jewish Film Festival’s five thought-provoking screenings brought hundreds together, creating spaces for reflection and dialogue about our shared identity and diverse experiences.

Yet, beyond these numbers lies something more profound. When community members gather for our speaker series, they are not just absorbing information, they are forming relationships that extend beyond event walls. When families come together for PJ Library programs, children are not just hearing stories they are developing Jewish identities rooted in community.

Our interfaith initiatives have built bridges of understanding with neighboring faith communities, demonstrating that strong Jewish identity can coexist with respectful engagement across differences. Through collaborations with area synagogues, temples and Jewish organizations, we have created a tapestry of programming that honors the diversity within our own community while highlighting our shared traditions.

Educational series and holiday celebrations have provided meaningful connection points throughout the season. From a standing-room-only Hanukkah celebration at the Mercato to an emotional Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) recognition, these gatherings remind us that Jewish practice flourishes most vibrantly in community.

As we transition to summer, I am reminded of another teaching: “As a pomegranate is full of seeds, so is Israel full of mitzvot.” Like those seeds, each program, conversation and connection represent potential for growth. The true measure of our success is not counted in attendance figures but in relationships strengthened, traditions transmitted, and the sense of belonging fostered.

Our Jewish Federation exists to cultivate this fertile ground where Jewish life can flourish. By creating spaces for meaningful engagement, we fulfill our mission to build and sustain a vibrant Jewish community — one connection at a time.

May we continue growing together, supporting each other, and strengthening the bonds that make our community a true home.