November 27, 2024

Over the last year, as Jews, it has been easy to have a negative outlook about the world around us. Between rising antisemitism, security concerns, anxiety about our children in the classroom, and watching the news from Israel with fear and sadness, it has been a lot. 

But, as Jews, even when times are difficult, it is core to who we are to express our gratitude. In Biblical Hebrew, the source of the word ‘Jew’ – Yehuda – shares a linguistic root with the word for thanks – Todah. It is, quite literally, at the root of who we are to give thanks.

Even as our Jewish community faces profound challenges both locally and globally, the resilience of our people and the strength of our traditions inspire gratitude every day. Now is the time for all of us to transform that gratitude into action. One way to do that is through the act of generosity, which is a declaration of hope and a belief in a brighter future for all.

By supporting the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle, you help build a stronger, safer, and more vibrant future for Jewish life here and across the globe.

Here’s how your support makes a difference:

• Safety – Protecting over 100 local Jewish organizations through SAFE Washington, preserving the spaces where we gather, learn, and thrive.

• Advocacy – Equipping nearly 200 lawmakers, educators, and civic leaders with tools to combat antisemitism and advocate for the safety and inclusion of our community.

• Community – Connecting more than 3,000 children each month to their Jewish heritage through PJ Library® books, supporting leaders and rising leaders in our community, and building the next generation of a thriving Jewish community.

• Am Yisrael –  Delivering critical aid to vulnerable Jewish communities, including allocations to support Israel and Jews in need worldwide.

As you reflect on your gratitude this Thanksgiving, I invite you to be a part of sustaining Jewish life in Seattle.