$1 million in funding
for security initiatives each year
I love Fall in Columbus. The leaves are changing, the high holidays are upon us, and college football is back for my kids and husband. It’s a beautiful season of reflection and how to move forward in all aspects of our lives. This past week, I once again witnessed a thriving Jewish Columbus community at the Wexner Heritage Village Apple Festival, events with activist Jonny Daniels, author and Middle East Intelligence Analyst Avi Melamed, JCC’s Safety Day, Hillel’s Ohio Love Israel Gathering, and at galas for Ahavas Sholom, Jewish Family Services, and Columbus Community Kollel.
And this all happened in one week! Kol Hakavod to all our partners!
This past Sunday, I along with colleagues and board members, had the opportunity to attend the Ohio Loves Israel Conference at OSU Hillel, a one-day gathering. It was inspiring to walk into an energy-filled room and see Jewish students and Hillels from across Ohio unite in their love and passion for Israel.
When I went to Hillel’s Bagel Cafe, I was able to snag one of the famous Israeli Aroma Coffee blended ice coffee drinks and had a conversation with a student from Ohio State University. She spoke about how the conference made her feel not alone while also deepening her understanding of Israel. Her words, spoken with such sincerity, were a powerful reminder of the importance of these gatherings and their profound impact on our students.
At the conference, our students had the opportunity to hear from Howie Beigelman of Ohio Jewish Communities about the incredible advocacy efforts that led to the passing of the CAMPUS Act. Recently signed into law, this critical legislation has brought enhanced security measures and educational resources to college campuses. It represents a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of Jewish students, providing essential protections, and fostering an environment where they can thrive academically and personally. The CAMPUS Act is a testament to our collective commitment to safeguarding our students and creating a supportive atmosphere where they can flourish.
With OSU Hillel and Chabad continues to offer meaningful programs and support, our students have countless opportunities to engage with their Jewish identity and community. Whether through Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, or educational programs, Hillel and Chabad create welcoming spaces where students can connect, learn, and grow.
As I reflect on this past week’s community gatherings, I cannot help but think of the safety and security our community needs to live a vibrant Jewish life. Columbus is among the fastest-growing communities in North America, and to meet the growing needs of a Jewish community that could grow to 50,000 over the next ten years, it is time to double down with our security and planning efforts. We are thinking of things differently not because we want to but because we have to. We are building a foundation – a best-in-class security program for Columbus. It will take all of us standing together to ensure our vibrancy for future generations.
We continue to look a things differently, learn, and grow together, your thoughts and feedback are essential.
So tell me…
// Who would you like to learn from over the next few years?
// What are your thoughts on how we can prepare for this growth?
// What can we do to connect with more people who want to help shape our incredible Jewish community?
Please email me your thoughts at info@jewishcolumbus.org.
