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Your gift says: I’m here. I stand with Jewish Edmonton

As we head into Shabbat, I’ve been thinking about the word Hineni – Here I am. It’s such a powerful phrase in our tradition. As we recently read in the Torah- When God calls to Abraham, he answers: “Hineni.” (Genesis 22:1).

It’s not just about being present—it’s about showing up with intention and commitment.

That’s what a gift to United Jewish Appeal (UJA) means. Big or small, it’s your way of saying: I’m here. I’m counted. I stand with my community. Your support makes sure that when we’re called upon—by funders, by allies, by advocacy partners—we can proudly say we represent a strong, united Jewish Edmonton.

And it’s more than that. Your gift builds Jewish identity. It helps teens and young adults connect with peers across Canada, in Israel, and through immersive experiences that shape their Jewish journey.

Just this week, we’ve seen the impact:

  • Hillel is buzzing with energy, welcoming more out-of-town students.
  • Sigd celebrations at Beth Israel and the Jewish Peoplehood course that we have partnered with Temple Beth Ora and Jewish Family Services give people new ways to engage.
  • I’m looking forward to the Jewish Archives and Historical Society of Edmonton and Northern Alberta and Jewish Family Services AGMs, connecting with organizations whose missions UJA supports and with whom we collaborate.
  • Planning for March of the Living is underway—a milestone experience that has inspired so many young leaders. Registration closes next week and financial assistance is available thanks to the generosity of the Russ Joseph z”l Memorial Fund.
  • Partnership2Gether and Birthright Volunteer continue to strengthen ties between our young adults and our partner region in Israel, with new missions being offered for 25–50-year-olds with interests in sports and arts and for Talmud Torah teachers to reconnect with those at Lev Haemek this summer. You can learn more about the Athletes and Artists Mission now.
  • We have been asked by StopHate Alberta to participate in their study about the impacts on mental health for those who have experience hate. We are partnering with them and Jewish Family Services by offering a focus group specific to our community. You can register now.

This is what Hineni looks like: showing up for each other, for our future, and for our community. Will you join us in saying Hineni? Make your UJA gift today—every contribution matters.

P.S. I will be having a fireside chat with Howie Sniderman at Beth Shalom after kiddish this Saturday, talking about our recent and simultaneous experiences in Israel—him with the World Zionist Congress and me in our Coast-to-Coast partnership. Please join.

Shabbat Shalom,

Stacey