A Word from the CEO

One of the best parts of serving as CEO of the JRB is the opportunity to attend Conservative Movement gatherings and connect with you in person. This month, I had the pleasure of attending the joyous Cantors Assembly Convention. Amid the music, prayer and celebration, Andrew Jabar and I led a retirement planning workshop and met with participants for one-on-one consultations. I am already looking forward to next year!

At the same time, one retirement issue continues to demand attention: Social Security. The 2026 Social Security Trustees Report, released in June, noted that the program faces long-term funding challenges, with changes likely needed in the coming years. While Social Security is expected to continue paying benefits, future adjustments could affect how much is paid over time. One recent analysis suggests that individuals retiring in the early 2030s may need to rely more on personal savings to maintain their expected income.

For JRB participants, the takeaway is simple: thoughtful planning can help you stay on track for a secure retirement.

JRB participants are the rabbis, cantors, educators, administrators, camp counselors and others working for USCJ synagogues and Conservative Movement organizations. You spend your careers strengthening Jewish life. At the same time, you are also responsible for making important decisions about your own retirement savings, investments, and future income.  

That responsibility can feel daunting. The good news is that you do not have to do it alone. That’s why I encourage you to read 11 Common Investing Mistakes — and How to Avoid Them. It offers practical guidance to help you stay on track.

Finally, I encourage you to watch Rabbi Robin Foonberg's testimonial. As Jewish Educators Assembly Executive Director, she speaks to the importance of retirement savings for teachers and reaffirms that educators are eligible for JRB benefits.

If you would like to discuss retirement strategy, review your investment approach, or simply have a conversation about your plan, please reply to this email or call 888-JRB-FREE (572-3733).

L’Shalom,