A piece published in eJewish Philanthropy today captured the purpose of Federation beautifully: “The purpose of a federation is to help build flourishing Jewish communities”—communities that are healthy, safe, caring, welcoming and inclusive, educated and engaged, active in the broader community, and connected to Israel and Jewish communities around the world. That vision takes more than raising money and allocating it. It calls on Federation to plan, invest, convene, strengthen relationships, build infrastructure, and mobilize people and resources so Jewish life can flourish now and into the future.

One of Federation's greatest strengths is our unique vantage point across the community. Because we work across so many organizations, programs, and generations, we see both the challenges we need to address and the extraordinary potential all around us. I was reminded of that yesterday at BBYO bagel fundraiser pick up.

Did you get your BBYO bagels? I couldn't help but kvell at pick up as I watched our teens directing traffic, placing bagels in cars, smiling, kibbitzing, and leading with confidence. It was a reminder that something as simple as bagels can build connection, support our teens, and remind them that community is right there with them.

It also made me think about safe spaces. We speak often, and rightly, about physical safety. But our teens and young adults also need psychological safety: the ability to be proudly Jewish without having to explain, defend, or brace themselves.

I know it is not easy right now to be a teen in school or a young adult on campus. I have heard it from students directly: the pressure to speak for an entire people, the exhaustion of being misunderstood, and the courage it takes to show up proudly when the environment around them can feel uncertain or hostile.

This week, Federation was invited to the University of Alberta for a class panel on extremist hate. Jenn Magalnick, Zion Barany, and I sat with students and shared how our community responds, educates, and shows up. There were thoughtful questions and moments that reminded me why our work matters. Students need to know there are people and institutions prepared to stand with them when being visibly Jewish feels difficult.

While on campus, I also saw the future Hillel lounge space. It is still being spruced up, but Hillel is already bringing together first- and second-year students and young adults seeking connection and belonging.

That matters. A place where a student can breathe, laugh, ask questions, find peers, connect with mentors, and remember they are not alone is not a luxury. It is essential.

Earlier this week, I spent time coaching one of our teens through a difficult situation she was facing at school and encouraged her to approach it with clarity, confidence, and purpose. So when she proudly told me at bagel pick up that she had spoken with her teacher about materials that had created an uncomfortable, and I would add hostile, climate for her, I understood the significance of that moment. We do not yet know what will happen, but I was so proud of her for naming what mattered, understanding its significance, and taking action.

That is emerging leadership. It is not always a podium. Sometimes it is a difficult conversation with a teacher. Sometimes it is walking into Hillel for the first time. Sometimes it is saying, “I need community,” and finding people ready to welcome you.

This Shabbat, I am thinking about the tremendous potential of our teens and young adults, and the responsibility we share to help them become the leaders we need. This is the work Federation does today, and it is why we are so well positioned to help build the Jewish community of tomorrow.

A gift to United Jewish Appeal (UJA) turns that responsibility into action: investing in safe spaces, trusted programs, mentorship, and the relationships that strengthen Jewish identity and community for the next generation. Please make your UJA gift today and help us show every student that they are seen, supported, and never alone.

As we prepare for Yom Kippur, we are reminded that none of us gets it right all the time. The holiest day of our year calls us to reflect with humility, seek forgiveness where it is needed, and extend grace to others as we all strive to be our best selves. May this sacred season strengthen our compassion, deepen our connections, and inspire us to begin the new year with renewed purpose and hope.

Wishing you and your loved ones a meaningful fast and a G'mar Chatimah Tovah. May you be sealed for a year of health, peace, and blessing.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stacey