The Federation leads a strong Jewish Puget Sound by serving as a community voice, strengthening connections to Israel and World Jewry, and making investments in Jewish life, for today and the next generation.
Our Story
Founded in 1928, the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle has always been a pillar of strength, connection, and support for our local Jewish community and Jews around the world. From rescuing Holocaust survivors in the 1940s to welcoming Ethiopian and Russian immigrants in the 1980s and 1990s, and launching major relief efforts like the 2022 Ukraine Challenge, our story has always been about meeting the moment with heart, resilience, and collective action.
That mission continues today with renewed urgency. Since the devastating attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, the Federation has stepped up in powerful new ways—raising over $1.6 million in emergency aid, standing with Israel, and coordinating critical security responses through SAFE Washington. Our advocacy work has grown deeper and more determined, confronting antisemitism in schools, government, and public spaces, and ensuring every Jewish person feels seen, safe, and supported.
We are conveners and bridge-builders. Whether it’s 2,000 people gathering for a vigil or young leaders building their Jewish future, we are creating space for unity in all its forms. We are investing in safety, leadership, innovation, and access to Jewish life—because we believe a strong Jewish future is one that we build together.
Organizational Pillars
Our work falls primarily in four pillars: Safety, Advocacy, Community, and Am Yisrael. We address critical challenges such as rising antisemitism, community security, and the need for meaningful Jewish engagement. Through strategic investments, advocacy, and community partnerships, we aim to build a stronger, more connected Jewish future.
Safety
The Federation’s SAFE Washington initiative ensures the safety of Jewish communities by providing vital security resources and close partnerships with local law enforcement and national security agencies.
Advocacy
Through the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), the Federation combats antisemitism, builds community partnerships, and advocates with legislators to protect Jewish life. By working with policymakers and educating leaders, we ensure Jewish voices are heard. The JCRC’s mission is to protect Jewish values, rights, and freedoms.
Community
The Federation unites the Jewish community across generations and denominations, supporting community events, leadership development, summer camp scholarships, young family programming, PJ Library®, and much more. These efforts ensure that Jewish traditions, values, and identities are celebrated and passed down through every stage of life, creating a vibrant and lasting Jewish future in Greater Seattle.
Am Yisrael
The Federation supports Jews globally, especially in times of crisis. By providing aid, strengthening ties with Israel, and cultivating unity among Jews worldwide, we make sure no one stands alone, reinforcing the resilience of the Jewish people.
Organizational Values
Collaboration
Ecclesiastes 4:12
“A threefold cord is not easily broken”
We work together to achieve a common goal, leveraging each other’s unique strengths to maximize our impact.
We encourage giving and receiving feedback, checking for understanding, and listening with an open mind.
We intentionally seek opportunities for collaboration and alternative viewpoints, within our organization and our community.
Community
Kehilla/Areivut
“Community/Responsibility”
We empower active Jewish engagement, rooted in meaningful relationships.
We contribute to the well-being of the Jewish people, locally and globally.
We strive to repair the world by building bridges, recognizing we are stronger together.
Innovation
Hitlamdut
“Openness to Learn”
We cultivate new ideas and programs to address the evolving needs of the Jewish people.
We take informed risks, learn from our successes and failures, and strive for continuous improvement in all we do.
We invest in potential and nurture creativity.
Integrity
V’asita hayashar v’hatov
“And you shall do what is proper and good”
We follow through on our commitments and are accountable to our community, our leadership, and our staff.
We are transparent about our goals and our decision-making processes.
We build trust through open communication and consistently act in alignment with our values.
Respect
Kavod HaBriyot
“Honor the Creations”
We embrace the diversity of the Jewish people and honor its wide array of practices and traditions.
We share our appreciation for contributions and accomplishments across the Jewish community.
We practice civil discourse and value viewpoint diversity
