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October 21, 2026

Opportunities to go to Israel this December



Only a few spots are left for the Teen and Birthright Israel Volunteer Trips, which offer more affordable options for our community. Sign up today.

• Volunteer in Israel: Travel to Israel December 7–16 for a hands-on volunteer experience in partnership with Birthright Israel. Support recovery and rebuilding efforts while connecting with the people, land, and sites of Israel. Register soon; space is limited. 
• Teen Winter Trip to Israel: All 11th and12th graders and college freshmen can experience Israel together on this transformational Jewish teen journey, December 20, 2026–January 3, 2027. 

Impact Moment: Welcoming our Shlichim


We love our shlichim! We are proud to partner with the The Jewish Agency for Israel and the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC to bring Israeli programming to Houston to build personal connections. Houston’s new shlichim (Israeli emissaries), Bar and Leshem Maor, are in Houston for the next two years to bring Israeli music, food, arts and culture, and their passion for Israel to all of us.  Bar will work through the Federation, while Leshem will work at the J. Read the full article in the Jewish Herald-Voice to learn more about their work. 

Spread the Light this Chanukah for Local Families   

The Houston Chanukah Project makes it easy to brighten the season for local families, children, and seniors in need. With five ways to get involved, there is an option for everyone. From adopting a child to provide gifts for Chanukah to volunteering at the Federation Wrap Party on Sunday, November 15, you can help make a difference. Choose one or more opportunities to give, volunteer, and support essential community programs. Learn more about key dates and sign up now to support these meaningful programs. 

J Book Festival Partnership   

We are proud to partner and sponsor a number of events with the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC for its 2026 Ann & Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Festival. You can learn about all the ways Federation is partnering here, which includes serving as the lead presenting sponsor of Opening Night featuring Rachel Goldberg-Polin's new book, When We See You Again, a night for teens, Book Lovers Lunch, a brunch with YAD, Oliver Lapin Family Day with PJ Library, and the Community Read. 

FedU Cohort 8 is Underway



Cohort 8 of FedU, our leadership development program, is officially underway! We're thrilled to bring together 15 talented and passionate emerging leaders for a journey of learning, leadership development, and community building. Through hands-on experiences, meaningful conversations, and engagement with community leaders, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the Jewish Federation's impact locally, nationally, and globally. Along the way, they'll build strong relationships, strengthen their leadership skills, and explore how they can play an active role in shaping the future of Jewish Houston. Learn more here. 

Stay up to date on current Federation events and happenings in our community:



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