I hope you’ve had a good week. The last few weeks have been extraordinarily difficult for our Jewish community. So much has happened both here in Rhode Island and around our country that remind us that being Jewish in this moment is fraught, scary, and can feel isolating. But it’s also a reminder of why the work of building our community is so important. And if you forgive me for being so bold, it is a reminder of why the work that the Alliance does is so important. 

Last week, after the shooting in Washington, D.C., the Alliance immediately reached out to local law enforcement. We made sure that Jewish institutions would have extra support from law enforcement over the coming weeks so that our community could feel safe when going to synagogue or celebrating the upcoming holiday of Shavuot. More important, because of the relationships we have built over time, some of these law enforcement agencies and many of our friends in government reached out to us to understand what we may need in this moment and to express their condolences.  

And at a time where we feel isolated, the Alliance continues to hold programs and events designed to bring our community together and designed to connect others with us. Planning continues for our second annual Jewish Culture Fest, which will take place on Sunday, September 14th. Last year it was incredible to see the Jewish pride on display, to see our own community celebrate together, and to see others join us in celebration, not in tragedy. I’m excited for this year to be even bigger and better! 

I know I’ve said it many times, but this work doesn’t just happen. Like every nonprofit, the Alliance requires the resources to do this critical work of building our community and building relationships throughout Rhode Island that keep our community safe and connected. We still have about $200,000 to raise before the end of our fiscal year on June 30th to ensure we can continue to fulfill our purpose of building a vibrant, thriving community for all. If you haven’t yet made a donation, please consider doing so – and if you have, and can afford a little more, please consider an additional gift to help us reach our goal. You can donate by clicking here. 

Our community requires all of us to play a role. I’m proud to do this work every day on behalf of our community, and I know everyone on our staff is as well. On behalf of all of us, thank you for your support, for believing in the mission of Jewish community building, and for providing us with the resources to do this work on behalf of us all. 

Until next time, I wish you a safe, peaceful, and joyous Shabbat. 

Shabbat Shalom,
Adam Greenman
President & CEO