By Nancy B. Greer
President & CEO
We’re just a few days away from closing the books on 2021 and welcoming 2022. This is the time of year when many take a pause from busyness, look back on the ups and downs of the past 12 months, and set goals for the coming year.
In reflecting on 2021 and imagining what might be around the bend in 2022, one thing stands out in my mind: resilience. During these years of pandemic, rising antisemitism, and societal turbulence, we have risen to the challenge, collectively, of keeping our community connected. We have honed habits of collaboration that strengthen communal relationships and broaden engagement in Jewish life. Our work is rooted in timeless Jewish values: Collaboration. Integrity. Respect. Innovation. Community.
Now is the time to look forward to what will be another impactful year of serving Jewish Puget Sound. Before touching on what Federation has in store for 2022, I want to thank each and every person who has supported our work. All of us at Federation are immensely grateful for your generosity. You are the spark of Jewish life!
In the coming year, you can count on your Federation to work for a vibrant Jewish present and future in many ways:
As a hub for keeping our community safe. The SAFE Washington program will continue to be the go-to point of contact for timely security communications, trainings, and resources for over 100 Jewish organizations in our state.
As a catalyst for Jewish connection. PJ Library® bringing Jewish life to families with young children. Scholarships enabling children to experience Jewish camp and visit Israel. Inspiring gatherings that bring us together for Jewish learning and celebration experiences.
As a center for leadership development. Courageous Leadership 2.0 will build on foundational work this year, starting with the Courageous Leadership Incubator—engaging 16 up-and-coming leaders with mentorship, coaching, non-voting service on Jewish organization boards, and cohort-based education with the Shalom Hartman Institute.
As a force for strengthening bonds with Israel. Bringing energetic young emissaries to the Puget Sound region to build people-to-people connections with our Jewish homeland. Making investments in humanitarian services, Jewish identity programs, and education in Israel and overseas Jewish communities.
As a voice for Jewish Puget Sound. Federation’s Jewish Community Relations Council will spearhead advocacy for a 2022 legislative agenda in Olympia that reflects the priorities that community members like you highlighted in our annual Policy Priorities Survey earlier this year. We are looking forward to another productive legislative session advancing the fight against antisemitism and hate crimes, protecting the social safety net, and securing resources for Jewish organizations that serve our region.
As a partner to brighten our Jewish tomorrows. The Federation-powered Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Seattle is dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communal organizations use the power of endowments to make a lasting impact on Jewish life.
In 2022, my Federation colleagues and I are looking forward to continuing our work supporting and enriching Jewish life, moving from strength to strength. We wish you and your loved ones a very Happy New Year!
