The Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor
The Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor is the vibrant hub of a community that celebrates Jewish life. We are the safety net that enables Jews to fulfill our obligations to take care of one another.
Federation is your center for philanthropy, engagement and community-building – an energetic network of organizations, programs and services that maintains and sustains our Jewish community. Federation is all of us working together to repair the world and ensure a thriving and connected community.
When you want to meet new people, help others to learn, explore your Jewish identity, discover new ways to do good, and give back to those who came before you, the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor is here for you.
Our Vision
Greater Ann Arbor is a home to a resilient, thriving Jewish community where every person feels welcomed, valued, and connected. We celebrate Jewish life with joy and pride, stand united in the face of challenges, and actively contribute to building a better world for all. Our community will be a beacon of Jewish values, interfaith partnership, and civic engagement that strengthens both our local area and the global Jewish people.
Our Mission
The Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor unites and strengthens our Jewish community to shape a vibrant, resilient future. Together we build a flourishing Jewish community that is welcoming & inclusive, educated & engaged, safe & secure, caring, active, and connected to our local community, Israel, and Jews worldwide.
Our Values
Tzedakah – Our commitment to justice and righteous giving drives our philanthropic leadership and community support.
Community & Jewish Peoplehood – We embrace our responsibility to one another locally and our connection to Jews everywhere (Kol Yisrael Arevim ze l’ze – All Israel is responsible for one another).
Commitment to Israel – We are committed to strengthening and supporting Israel as a Jewish and democratic state
Resilience & Unity – We draw strength from our shared experiences and stand together in facing challenges, including rising antisemitism and threats to Jewish life.
Belonging – We foster an environment where every household, across race, family structure, age, sexual orientation, and background, can see themselves in the life of our community.
Tikkun Olam – Repairing the world through acts of justice, compassion, and partnership with all communities.
Sustainability & Continuity – We plan for the future while honoring our past, ensuring Jewish life endures for generations.
Chesed & Responsibility – We act with compassion and take responsibility for caring for our community’s needs.
Collaboration & Partnership – We work together within our community and build bridges with others to achieve shared goals.
Our Role in the Community
The Jewish Federation is the backbone of the Jewish community, committed to caring for the needs of the Jewish people, building and sustaining flourishing and resilient local Jewish life, and ensuring an enduring Jewish future in Ann Arbor, in Israel, and around the world. We serve as the community’s primary inspirer and convener of Jewish life, welcoming every household seeking a connection to Jewish peoplehood. In an era of rising antisemitism and global uncertainty, we serve as both anchor and advocate for our vibrant community’s safety and growth.
We intentionally align our plan with Jewish Federations of North America’s focus on building flourishing Jewish communities that are welcoming and inclusive, safe and secure, educated and engaged, active in civil society, and connected to Israel and global Jewry. Our LiveSecure goals, community relations work, and annual impact reporting parallel national priorities while being tailored to Ann Arbor’s needs.
Our Strategic Pillars
Philanthropy: Fund and Sustain the Jewish Community
Philanthropy drives the Jewish Federation’s leadership role in the community. Our values of tzedakah, community, responsibility and tikkun olam underpin our Annual Community Campaign and trusted allocations process, providing core funding to communal partners and ensuring basic community needs are met. Designated gifts, Foundation funds, and Life & Legacy embody sustainability, enabling long-term community strength and security.
Engagement: Strengthen Jewish Identity and Build Relationships
The strength of our Jewish community lies in its diverse offerings and connections. We foster meaningful relationships within our community and with Israel and global Jewry, while building bridges with interfaith and civic partners. We provide accessible pathways for Jewish engagement across all ages and backgrounds, ensuring everyone finds their place in our resilient community.
Leadership & Convening: Lead and Unite Around Communal Needs
As the central address for the Jewish community, we provide leadership and convene partners to address community-wide needs, enhance security, advocate on important issues, and develop innovative programming that enables our community to thrive.
Organizational Wellness: Build and Sustain Excellence
To accomplish our goals, we maintain a strong, accountable team of volunteers and professionals with the tools, structure, and support needed for success. We ensure organizational sustainability through effective leadership transitions, governance, and strategic planning.
