Federation of Jewish Communities: Building Jewish Strength, Locally and Globally

Welcome to the Federation of Jewish Communities, a vibrant, caring network rooted in Jewish values - compassion, tzedakah (charity), responsibility, and social justice. At Shalom Delaware, we believe federation is more than an organization: it’s a living, breathing expression of Jewish peoplehood, connecting individuals, families, and institutions both locally in Delaware as well as around the world.

What Is the Federation?

Federation is the heart and soul of Jewish communal life. Rather than focusing solely on religious services, a federation brings together the community to address educational, social, cultural, and humanitarian needs. It acts as a central hub - coordinating, funding, and promoting programs that enrich Jewish life in Delaware, support Israel, and help Jews across the globe.

At Shalom Delaware, our mission is to mobilize Jewish energy to make a real difference: to respond to the needs of our community today, to plan for our future, and to nurture our global Jewish family.

Our Mission & Vision

Our Mission:

To mobilize the Jewish community around shared values.

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To support and connect local institutions, ensuring that everyone - regardless of age or background - can access meaningful Jewish experiences.

To raise and allocate funds wisely, addressing needs defined by the community’s shared goals.

To serve as a bridge - both within the Jewish community and between Jews and the broader society.

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Our Vision:

A strong, resilient Jewish coalition rooted in heritage, activism, and mutual responsibility.

A globally minded Jewish family that strengthens the State of Israel and supports Jewish life in more than 70 countries.

A future-oriented agenda that grows Jewish leadership, nurtures identity, and fosters innovation.

What Does the Federation Do?

Strengthening Community

The Federation builds a cohesive Jewish community in Delaware by funding local partners - synagogues, schools, welfare services, and cultural institutions. We don’t just raise money; we set strategic priorities together.

Caring for Those in Need

Through our fundraising campaigns, we address critical social needs: food, shelter, counseling, and emergency support. Whether at home or abroad, we provide life-changing assistance.

Leadership Development

We believe in cultivating Jewish leadership - training lay leaders, supporting young adults, and helping people from all walks of life find their place in communal life.

Global Impact

Our work extends beyond Delaware: with your help, we support humanitarian initiatives, Jewish education, and crisis relief in Israel and around the world.

Jewish Education and Culture

We invest in educational programs, youth outreach, and cultural events so that Jewish teaching and heritage remain vibrant and accessible.

Interfaith & Civic Engagement

Federation gives Jewish voices a platform in the wider community - building bridges, influencing policy, and fostering mutual understanding.

Why Federation Matters

Efficiency & Coordination: By pooling resources, Federation can support a wide range of programs more effectively than any single institution could.

Long-Term Vision: We don’t just provide for urgent needs; we plan strategically. Together, we create a sustainable agenda that supports Jewish continuity.

Community Makers: Federation helps turn individual generosity into collective power. When you give, you join a network of caring people who amplify impact.

Inclusive & Welcoming: Whether someone is deeply involved or just exploring their Jewish identity, federation offers a place to belong.

Global Reach, Local Heart: Our work in Delaware reflects Jewish values and also contributes to Jewish life in other parts of the world, reinforcing a sense of shared destiny.

Our Impact - By the Numbers

In 2024, 954 donors came together to support our Annual Campaign.

We raised $1.92M+ for our Annual Campaign, fueling our local and global programs.

Our Israel Emergency Fund raised $1.04M+ - a lifeline in times of need.

These aren’t just numbers: they reflect real lives touched, renewed, and lifted by collective effort.

Get Involved - Be the Spark

At Shalom Delaware, you are the spark that builds Federation. Whether you want to volunteer, lead, or simply learn more - there’s a place for you.

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Here’s how you can get involved:

Volunteer: Help with senior care, youth education, or community outreach.

Donate: Contribute to our Annual Campaign or Emergency Funds.

Partner: If you’re part of a Jewish institution, explore how we can collaborate.

Advocate: Join us in public policy, interfaith dialogue, and social justice work.

Learn: Attend our events, educational classes, and cultural programs to deepen your Jewish connection.

Why We Do What We Do

The Federation is inspired by centuries-old Jewish teachings: the mitzvot (commandments), the obligations of tzedakah (charity), and tikkun olam (repairing the world). These aren’t just ideals - they are our call to action.

We act because we believe that Jewish life - in Delaware and beyond - deserves to flourish. We strive to strengthen Jewish identity, support those in need, and build bridges across communities.

Join Us

By joining the Federation, you join a movement - a network of hope, compassion, and continuity. Together, we can uplift lives, renew Jewish connections, and create a stronger future for all.

Explore how you can make a difference at Shalom Delaware’s Federation and connect with us today. Your support isn’t just charity - it’s the foundation of Jewish community, now and for generations to come.