Encounter thoughts on Thanksgiving
On Thanksgiving, I realize just how much I have to give thanks for. And as I continue to think about my trip to the West Bank, my mind has been filled with thoughts of the trip and the experience. The rockets that flew out of Gaza into Israel just days after I left...
I’m coming home …
One last post before I return to America. After an exhausting experience like this, there is nothing better than getting to unwind with friends. I took a taxi to my friends Margot and Tamar's house for dinner, conversation, friendship, to play with their kids and meet...
Part 15: Trip summary
We gathered together for the final time as a group to begin the processing of the entire experience. I learned so much from the others on the trip as well as those we heard from and what I saw throughout the West Bank. One of the things I said in that final gathering...
On the ground in Israel: a land shaped by conflict
This past week I was in Israel. It was easy while I was there to forget there is a conflict going on. Everywhere I went, including Jerusalem, things were quiet. I was able to enjoy the outdoor malls, the sites and food of the buzzing metropolitans of both Tel Aviv and...
Digging deeper on the complex issue of Middle East conflict
At the Taste of Melton this week we explored the ever-evolving Middle East Political Landscape. It was a class that was up to the minute, with speeches just delivered to populations across the Middle East within the last month. During the beginning of the lesson,...
After Pittsburgh, an opportunity to heal
From the moment the news from Pittsburgh broke Saturday morning, we felt a range of emotions: grief; despair; and yes, anger. And yet, as we always do, we responded with strength. Almost immediately, both the Federation and our Jewish Community Relations Council...
JCRC voting guide is here!
In just a few short weeks, Florida will once again play a pivotal role in determining the direction of our nation. With competitive races up and down the ballot and 11 Constitutional amendments up for consideration, Nov. 6 is on pace to be one of the most important...
Federation gets federal security grant
Earlier this year, our local congressional delegation led a successful effort to include Orlando on the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's list of urban areas eligible for special federal grant funding. Thanks to their leadership, Orlando's inclusion on the list...
Beware of charity scams in wake of Pittsburgh attack
The FBI is extending a warning to all who may consider participating in victim assistance programs or charitable organizations in the wake of the Pittsburgh shootings. Before making a donation of any kind, consumers should adhere to certain guidelines, including: Do...
RAISE unveils 2 new logos!
RAISE, the Jewish Federation’s work and social skills training program for adults with special needs, is proud to announce the launch of two "brand" new logos! Collaboration with Jewish agencies and businesses in our community has been a priority for RAISE...
Congratulations to Employee of the Month – Jessica!
Jessica has been an appreciatedand valuable Employee of both the Jewish Family Services Food Pantry and the Roth Family JCC Fitness Center since October 2018. At JFS, Jessica has the important role of helping to unload boxes of food and preparing bags of food for...
Dell Hiring Program Aims To Create Opportunity For Adults With ASD
https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2019/04/05/dell-hiring-program/26360/
Ready to take the plunge!
Slathered in Dead Sea mud, our group prepares for a dip (or a float) in the water.
At the breathtaking Masada …
Our Orlando JWRP group on Sunday visited the Masada, a symbol of determination and heroism that overlooks the Dead Sea.
A banner day in Israel
Sara Gittleson (SPARK) and I (JFGO) have been honored to represent our respective organizations on this year's amazing Israel trip. Here, despite the wind, we proudly unfurl the special JFGO/SPARK flag that made the trek with us from Orlando.