Comm.Unity.

A Community of Hope 

Seth J. Katzen, President & CEO of Jewish Federation of Delaware 

Welcome to the May edition featuring our focus on Health & Wellness. 

The Federation held several meaningful programs the past few weeks under our Community of Hope theme including three Yom HaShoah programs for Holocaust Memorial Day, Yom HaZikaron to remember Israel’s fallen heroes and victims of terror, and Yom HaAtzmaut to celebrate Israel’s 77th including special guests from Israel. These holidays took on special meaning and serve as vivid reminders of our people’s resilience. 

On May 3, Federation and the Siegel JCC are bringing back Hashayara, a vibrant ensemble of Israeli musicians from the Galilee, who will share the spirit of Israel’s Independence Day to Delaware and the Brandywine Valley. Audiences will be taken on a musical journey that weaves together beloved Israeli songs in both Hebrew and English, celebrating the nation’s pioneering dreams, achievements, and challenges throughout its history. With a mix of traditional classics and contemporary Israeli hits, the concert offers a powerful connection between Israel’s past and present. 

On May 4, we bring Lone Soldier (a member of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) who does not have support in Israel, either because they do not have immediate family in Israel, or they are estranged from their family in Israel) Ira Kohler. A University of Delaware alum, Ira will share his units’ October 7 story and his time in Gaza. 

As a response to rising antisemitism, ADL’s Center for Antisemitism Research (CAR) was established in 2022 to study the dynamics of anti-Jewish hate.  In the aftermath of October 7, CAR has been conducting extensive and rigorous research aimed at identifying and developing effective communication strategies to combat antisemitism.  We are finalizing a date this month to present these strategies that can help strengthen our collective voice as we try to help others understand the impact of antisemitism on Jewish people. 

Across the country, ADL has been sharing these research-based communication strategies with Jewish community leaders like you because we believe that these seven strategies can help strengthen our collective voice as we try to help others understand the impact of antisemitism on Jewish people. 

Please save the date of Thursday June 12, for the Federation’s 90th Annual Meeting. We will thank outgoing and welcome incoming members of the Board of Directors as well as recognize three community leaders for their inspired leadership. You will also be one of the first to read our 2024–2025 IMPACT Report to the Community. 

We Grow Stronger TOGETHER As One.