Friday Five – March 20, 2026

This morning, JewishColumbus hosted the CEOs of the Cincinnati and Cleveland Jewish Federations and their security leadership to discuss how we can continue working together to be prepared and to share security best practices.

Last week’s Detroit synagogue incident was a reminder of why we continue to work on preparedness. While there are no local threats or indications of concern at this time, JewishColumbus will continue its elevated security presence, funding additional armed security during all operational hours at local Jewish institutions. This response is a critical line of defense, but it is only one piece of the puzzle in keeping our community safe.

JewishColumbus has conducted Tabletop Exercises with larger partner organizations to rehearse crisis scenarios and will continue to work with all our local Jewish institutions. In the meantime, please take a moment to review the FBI’s “Run, Hide, Fight” video for practical steps in an emergency.

Run. Hide. Fight. (Full Video) — FBI

Security is a shared responsibility, and awareness, planning, and training, combined with strong physical security, help ensure our institutions remain safe, welcoming spaces for Jewish life to thrive. We continue to encourage everyone to remain aware and observant.

If you see something, say something and if in doubt call 911. JewishColumbus security is always available by emailing [email protected] or [email protected].

JewishColumbus recently marked a major milestone in our Annual Campaign, reaching $12 million toward our bold $15 million goal. This achievement ensures that the agencies, programs, synagogues, and schools our community relies on will continue to benefit from the increased investment introduced last year. That investment more than doubled prior funding levels, strengthening their capacity to meet the evolving needs of the Columbus Jewish community and helping to shape a vibrant future.

These critical investments: 

• Secure our Jewish institutions
• Enable seniors to age with pride, dignity, and the support they need
• Make Jewish camp and education accessible to more families
• Give teens opportunities to strengthen their Jewish pride while building stronger Jewish identities
• Support Israel and Jewish communities around the world

While $12 million represents an extraordinary achievement, we have not yet crossed the finish line. Reaching $15 million will require the collective generosity that defines our Columbus community. Join us in reaching our goal of becoming the best Jewish community in North America.

Thank you to the many who have already donated. If you have not yet had a chance to share your support and generosity, please consider making your donation online.

JewishColumbus is proud to be part of a global effort supporting Israel’s small businesses through the Jewish Federations’ Israel Emergency Loan Fund. According to the latest Q4 report, the initiative continues to expand its reach and impact, with nearly 3,500 businesses across Israel receiving loans to help sustain operations, retain employees, and keep local economies moving forward. The fund also saw more than 300 new loans issued in the fourth quarter alone, reflecting the continued demand for support as businesses navigate ongoing challenges.

The lending platforms supporting the fund have also increased their leverage, meaning that every $1 invested is now generating more than $4 in lending capital, significantly amplifying the reach of every philanthropic dollar. JewishColumbus is proud to stand with partners around the world to sustain and grow this effort – ensuring that, especially during these difficult times in Israel, support reaches those who need it most.

Stand Up for Giving featuring Modi delivered an incredible night of community, connection, and laughter. In challenging times like these, opportunities to gather for joyful moments are more important than ever. From the moment the program began, Modi had the audience laughing, creating a truly memorable evening filled with warmth, camaraderie, and shared joy for the Columbus Jewish community.

A special thank you to event chairs, Shylee and Andrew Grossman, for envisioning such a joyful gathering and bringing it to life alongside an extraordinary host committee and our generous corporate partners. We are grateful to our Silver Level Partners: Bailey Cavalieri and The Lewin Family/Hamilton Parker Corporation, and our Bronze Level Partners: Brownie Points, Economy Linen, Gledhill & Talis Group of Cutler Real Estate, Matrix Psychology Services/Visualopathy, REMAX Main Street, and Schiff & Associates. Most importantly, thank you to the many JewishColumbus donors and community members whose generosity and spirit made the evening so meaningful and continue to power the impact we make across our community every day.

View our photo gallery.

Local teen presenters participating in the national Student to Student program visited both Westerville North and Olentangy Berlin High Schools, engaging more than 220 students across multiple classroom sessions. Through personal storytelling, from observing kashrut to cultural connections with Israel and celebrating Jewish traditions, they shared what being Jewish means in their daily lives.

The visits provided authentic, peer-led education about Jewish life, fostering inclusive dialogue and breaking down stereotypes in schools with little Jewish representation. They also created opportunities for meaningful engagement with school leadership, including administrators and the district superintendent, and were made possible with the support of teacher sponsor Aaron Taylor, a 2023 CJN Difference Maker. District coverage of the presentations highlights the power of peer-to-peer engagement in building respect and understanding among students.

As the program continues to resonate with both participants and audiences, JewishColumbus looks forward to expanding Student to Student in the coming school year, with applications opening in late spring.