Dear friends,

As we approach Shabbat, with so much uncertainty in the world around us, I find myself searching for a way to ground myself and focus on something that gives me hope for the future. 

The Jewish Federation of Ottawa is approaching the end of a remarkably successful Strategic Plan, implemented in 2019. As you know, the Jewish Superhighway’s objective was to bring meaningful Jewish experiences and journeys to individuals of all backgrounds and life stages, enhancing the quality of Jewish life in Ottawa. In its final, additional year, there was a focus on strengthening advocacy in the community.

Several unforeseen challenges were woven into the past six years including COVID, the war in the Ukraine, and October 7 and the ongoing war. In addition, there were significant changes in professional leadership within Federation. Each of these factors created additional stress on the community. And yet with the unwavering commitment of outstanding Federation staff, lay leaders and volunteers, we managed to withstand the challenges, continuing to stand strong as one. 

We have been blessed with our leadership team, with Adam Silver as our (new) CEO, and an exceptional executive team and staff. As we now embark on creating a new 5-Year Strategic Plan, I am excited for the future of the Ottawa Jewish community.

With Adam at the helm, Danya Vered, Federation's Vice-Chair of the Board, is chairing the Strategic Planning Committee. She is working with a team of Federation Board members, alongside the consultancy firm Coriphery. As part of the strategic planning process, we are reaching out to you, to ensure that our future priorities reflect the needs and aspirations of our community. 

Firstly, please share your voice by taking this 10-minute survey. (The deadline to submit is March 16, 2025.)

We then hope you can join us for a Community Consultation and Town Hall on Monday, March 31 at 7:30. (Location to be shared after registration.)

Thank you for participating! We appreciate your feedback, ideas, and vision as we strive to enhance Jewish experiences in Ottawa. We look forward to seeing you at the Town Hall.

Reflecting on the past six years, I am amazed at what we as a community have been able to accomplish. And I look ahead with both hope and optimism, confident that we will move forward together as an inclusive, strong, resilient community.  

May we continue to pray for peace and security in the world.

Wishing you and your families a meaningful Shabbat Shalom,

Karen

Honouring Their Memory

For those who were unable to attend in person, we invite you to watch the recording of Jewish Ottawa’s gathering on February 24, 2025, where our community came together to mourn the slain hostages. Through prayer, poetry, and song, we honoured the lives of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, and Oded Lifshitz, along with all those lost on October 7, 2023, and in the months since. As we continue to pray for the safe return of all hostages, may we find strength in one another.