As our community prepares to welcome Shabbat, a moment each week to pause, reflect, and reconnect, I wanted to share a glimpse of the meaningful work unfolding at the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis. Especially during challenging times for the Jewish people, it is often the quiet, steady work of community building and leadership that reminds us of the strength we hold together.

This message is the first in what will be a monthly Shabbat Shalom series. Through these notes, we hope to offer a window into the work happening across our Federation and our community. Our goal is to share more transparently about the efforts taking place on behalf of Jewish Indianapolis while also highlighting the many ways that members of our community are stepping forward to lead, volunteer, and help shape our shared future.

One of the things that gives me the greatest sense of hope is the strength of our young leadership. Our ongoing investment in developing leaders is not only about preparing for the future. It is about ensuring that our community has the wisdom, commitment, and vision needed to guide us through any moment.

Recently, I had the opportunity to witness that leadership in action when our Israel and Overseas Committee gathered. Co-chaired by Prystowsky ATID Leadership Program alumni Polly Beeson and Carly Turow, the committee plays an essential role in guiding how our Federation supports Israel and Jewish communities around the world. Both Polly and Carly lead with remarkable thoughtfulness, dedication, and care for our community. Their leadership reflects not only a deep commitment to Israel and global Jewish life, but also a willingness to step forward, listen carefully, and help guide meaningful conversations about how our community can make a difference.

Polly and Carly shared how honored they feel to play even a small role in supporting Israel, especially during such a difficult time. Their words reflected a deep sense of responsibility and connection that resonates across our community. Looking around the room, I was struck by the powerful combination of leaders present. Graduates of our leadership programs sat alongside seasoned lay leaders who bring decades of wisdom and perspective. It was a reminder that our Federation’s strength comes from the way we cultivate leadership across generations.

That same spirit will soon guide another critical part of our work as we begin our Planning and Allocations process, often referred to as “P and A.” This is one of the most important responsibilities of our Federation, determining how the funds raised through our annual campaign are invested in Jewish programs, agencies, and the pressing needs of our community.

This year’s process is being co-chaired by two outstanding leaders who represent the strength of our leadership pipeline, Emma Law-Oppman, an alumna of the Prystowsky ATID Program, and Daniel Reyzman, a graduate of the Maurer Koach leadership program. Together with a dedicated group of volunteers, they will help guide thoughtful conversations about how our collective resources can have the greatest impact.

These moments remind me that leadership development is not theoretical. It is something we see come to life every day through individuals who step forward to serve our community. The leaders we nurture today are the ones helping guide our response to the challenges we face, strengthening our connection to Israel, and ensuring that Jewish life in Indianapolis continues to thrive.

During these trying times for the Jewish people, it is deeply reassuring to know that our community is supported by such thoughtful, passionate, and committed leaders. Their dedication gives me tremendous hope for the future we are building together.

Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful and meaningful Shabbat.

Rebecca Schalit-Newman
Deputy Executive Director
Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis