In October, we put your values in action by retracing our Jewish roots and paving the foundation for a joyful Jewish future. We honored those we have lost, created vibrant Jewish community for the present, and helped send kids to Jewish summer camp to ensure the traditions we cherish live on in the next generation.
REMEMBERING THE VICTIMS OF OCTOBER 7TH
Exactly one year to the day of the horrific terrorist attack that changed the course of Jewish history, we brought our grieving community together for L.A. Remembers: October 7th at the Saban Theatre, alongside more than 70 partner organizations. Over 2,000 people joined us in person, while over 10,000 livestreamed this unifying and cathartic event to remember those we lost, honor the survivors, stand in solidarity with the hostages, and provide hope for the future. The event showed our deeply rooted Jewish resilience and the unity and strength of our community in this difficult moment. Over 30 elected officials attended, including Mayor Karen Bass; U.S. Senator Alex Padilla; and U.S. Representatives Brad Sherman, Ted Lieu, and Sydney-Kamlager-Dove; as well as Consuls General representing 16 countries. Family members of hostages gave harrowing testimonies and Israelis whose singular actions and individual heroism helped to save countless lives told their incredible stories. We were also honored to hear from L.A. luminaries Dr. Mayim Bialik and Scott “Scooter” Braun, recipients of the “Community Impact Recognition.”
Watch the livestream of L.A. Remembers: October 7th by visiting JewishLA.org/LARemembers
HONORING OUR TRADITIONS WITH THE YOUNG ADULT COMMUNITY
During the High Holy Days, we joyfully renew our bonds to remind ourselves where we came from. Sweet Return, a new citywide festival from our young adult initiative NuRoots, arrived this October with 12 days of inspiring events that set a sweet and creative tone for the new year. The lineup combined three programs designed by our NuRoots team, 12 events from citywide partners, and 56 dinners hosted by community members, in partnership with OneTable. Collectively, Sweet Return welcomed more than 1,100 guests. There was a Persian Rosh Hashanah seder and feast in Beverly Hills, a Nucomers Brunch for recent grads on the Westside, a Japanese garden Tashlich for Asian Jews and their loved ones in Baldwin Hills, and so many more ways for young Jews to experience the jubilation of the new year.
NuRoots brings young adults together all year round. Stay in the know at NuRoots.org.
GIVING KIDS THE JOY OF JEWISH SUMMER CAMP
Now, more than ever, kids need a place to proudly and safely connect to Judaism. Sending kids to Jewish summer camp is one of the most impactful ways to ensure a vibrant Jewish future. September 29th was our 12th annual Tour
de Summer Camps. It was a spectacular day where we put our shared Jewish values of spreading joy and building community into action on scenic bike routes, hiking trails, a Cycle at Camp station, and on our new Color Run course where kids got drenched in a rainbow of powder paint. This year’s edition of our legendary fundraiser generated close to $1 million in scholarship funds to help kids attend Jewish summer camp; many would not otherwise be able to afford this transformative experience.
Learn more about Tour de Summer Camps by visiting the website at JewishLA.org/TdSC.
JFEDLA acts on shared values to create safe, joyful, and connected Jewish life in Los Angeles, Israel, and around the world. We care for our vulnerable by fighting poverty and combating antisemitism. We inspire by fostering Jewish journeys, building bridges, and developing leaders. Our dedicated partners, passionate staff, and your generosity make our work possible.
To make a gift, please visit JewishLA.org/Donate.