Happy Chanukah! I hope you are enjoying the smell of latkes sizzling in the kitchen, the warm glow of menorah candles filling the room, the sounds of dreidels spinning, and laughter echoing as we gather with loved ones. It is a time to embrace our traditions, create new memories, and spread light to those around us.

Please visit our Chanukah Happenings calendar of activities taking place across the community. This includes the City of Beaverton, in partnership with Chabad of Hillsboro, inviting you to their menorah lighting on Monday, December 30 at 5:00 p.m. at City Park (SW 5^th Avenue and SW Hall).

We are in the final days of calendar year 2024. Do not miss year-end tax savings by paying your pledge here or mail a check to:

Jewish Federation of Greater Portland

9900 SW Greenburg Road

Suite 220

Tigard, OR 97223

(must be postmarked by December 31 for year-end tax savings)

As we celebrate this season of giving, it is impossible not to think about how you make the lives of many in our community better. Through your support of the Jewish Federation, you have brought comfort and hope to families and strengthened the bonds that hold our community together -- here in Greater Portland, in Israel and beyond.

The past 15 months have, in many ways, been defined by the tragedy of October 7. Jews are fighting against hate, indifference, violence, and divisiveness. We have seen rising antisemitism (in the United States, there have been thousands of antisemitic incidents recorded since October 7, 2023), increased security needs, ongoing mental health challenges, people in despair, and more.

Understanding all of this, we are investing in security (our community spends well over $1.5 million annually), education, and advocacy to address the rise in antisemitism in our community and on college campuses. We support a safety net for those struggling with challenges, addressing trauma, mental health, and financial distress, providing resources to help people succeed. We are continuing our work in Ukraine and Israel with humanitarian and social service assistance during the ongoing conflicts.

Our Jewish community is also experiencing what is being called, “The Surge.” More people are wanting to express their Jewish identity and heritage while proudly connecting with our shared traditions. There is this awakening of solidarity and a desire for learning and engagement – with more people showing up and attending.

As 2024 ends, why am I so proud of

the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland?

The Jewish Federation plays a critical and unique role to foster strength, resilience, and stability across our entire Greater Portland Jewish community. We have been doing this for nearly 105 years. Our scale, reach, and expertise allow us to see more and do more. Our unique vantage point enables us to convene and mobilize our Jewish community with speed and collective impact, tackling community-wide issues that are bigger than any one group or organization can solve alone.

We are helping ensure a healthy, thriving ecosystem of organizations and opportunities that supports the Jewish community and deepens engagement with Jewish life. Our strategy is designed to incentivize and embolden partners who are collaborative; exhibit fiscal responsibility and stability; demonstrate innovation and adaptability; and prioritize people and future-forward ideas with the aim of a thriving and engaged Jewish community.

Moreover, investments in the Jewish Federation provide a multiplier of collective impact. You are participating in our community’s response to the biggest challenges facing the Jewish people and the moment in which we find ourselves. We have so much urgent work to do.

To help create a brighter shared Jewish future -- we need to find the strength and the courage to keep showing up for one another. As the past has shown, when our Jewish community unites, we do not merely survive — we thrive and we build a legacy that endures through the ages.

Tonight, as we light the third candle on Shabbat eve, let us all unite and make two special additions to our holiday tradition. One night, if you have yet to do so, please add special prayers for the release of the hostages who have been held in Gaza for 447 days. And, as you make another trip to the store or fill your cart online, consider dedicating one night of Chanukah to our Jewish community by donating to the Jewish Federation or another Jewish community organization. Your prayers and support will spread light and joy to those who need it most.

Continue to enjoy the Chanukah holiday and best wishes for a healthy and fulfilling new year!