$1 million in funding
for security initiatives each year
This past week, JewishColumbus had the honor of traveling with Rabbi Yoni Nadiv, Senior Director of Leadership, and seven dedicated leaders from JewishColumbus to Seattle for the prestigious National Young Leadership Cabinet (NYLC) Retreat. For over 60 years, the NYLC has been a cornerstone in training and inspiring the next generation of Jewish leaders and philanthropists, and this retreat was a testament to its enduring impact.
A Week of Dedication and Inspiration
From Sunday to Wednesday, our Columbus delegation joined hundreds of leaders from across the globe, all committed to the mission of Jewish Federations: to build vibrant, secure Jewish communities both locally and internationally. The retreat provided an invaluable platform for learning, connecting, and renewing our commitment to this mission.
During the retreat, we gained insight into the tangible impacts of our collective efforts. We heard powerful stories about how funds raised by Jewish communities have supported critical initiatives, such as building bomb shelters and supplying generators in Ukraine. These efforts ensure that students in war-torn regions can continue their education amidst challenging circumstances. We also heard from a bereaved Israeli parent who shared how the Fund for Victims of Terror has provided crucial support during her time of need. Additionally, we learned about the positive effects of our community’s donations in Israel, which have helped replace tractors and agricultural equipment destroyed by Hamas on October 7th, thereby sustaining agricultural production and supporting the livelihoods of kibbutz farmers.
A Record-Breaking Fundraising Achievement
One of the most inspiring aspects of the retreat was witnessing the extraordinary generosity of the participants. Over the course of just a few days, the assembled group raised over $2 million in pledges for local communities. I am particularly proud that our Columbus cohort was among the top contributors. Notably, three of our members increased their commitments in Women’s Philanthropy to the $10,000 Ruby Lion level, showcasing a remarkable dedication to supporting and strengthening our community.
The retreat also marked a significant milestone for us locally. After a prolonged hiatus, Columbus has successfully re-engaged with the Cabinet program, welcoming 12 members in just three years, including four new members this year. These individuals have made a five-year commitment of their time, talent, and resources to JewishColumbus and the broader Federation system, reinforcing our community’s strong leadership presence.
Reflecting on Our Shared Values
A particularly memorable moment came from JFNA President & CEO Eric Fingerhut’s address. Quoting Rabbi Avraham Infeld, Eric spoke about the pivotal role of memory in our communal life, stating, “Jews don’t have history, they have memory!” He tied this concept to the themes of Rosh Hashanah: Malchuyot (Kingship), which reminds us of the importance of humility; Zikhronot (Memory), which connects us to one another; and Shofarot, which serves as a call to action. Eric’s charge to us was to meet the current crises with an outpouring of love, support, and generosity—a powerful reminder of the values that guide us.
Moving Forward with Purpose
The NYLC Retreat was a profound experience, reinforcing our commitment to fostering strong and vibrant Jewish communities worldwide. We are proud of the exceptional representation from Columbus and the meaningful contributions made by our leaders. Their dedication and generosity will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our local and global communities.
For those interested in learning more about the National Young Leadership Cabinet and its transformative programs, please reach out to Rabbi Yoni Nadiv.
Thank you to everyone who supports and inspires us in our shared mission. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected Jewish future.
