The Jewish communities of Stamford, New Canaan, and Darien have experienced remarkable growth in recent years, fueled by new arrivals during the COVID-19 pandemic and a renewed sense of solidarity in the face of rising antisemitism following October 7. 

As part of this growth, the community has seen increases in  young adults and families of ages 21 to 45. NextGen, an affinity group of United Jewish Federation (UJF) of Stamford, New Canaan and Darien, serves to engage this cohort specifically through social and educational opportunities.  NextGen is dedicated to strengthening the Jewish community and fostering meaningful connections.

“UJF sees a crucial opportunity to shape the future of our Jewish community and to meet the challenges,” shared UJF Board President, Beverly Stein. “We need to empower leaders and philanthropists who will carry our community forward.”

As such, NextGen is thrilled to announce the introduction of the Ben-Gurion Society (BGS). BGS is a national initiative designed to engage young Jewish adults through bold leadership, inspired giving, and diverse experiences. The goal of this initiative within UJF’s NextGen organization is  to build and sustain a vibrant Jewish community in Stamford, New Canaan, Darien, and around the world.

“Whether you’re attending a young leaders’ Shabbat or enjoying a happy hour with Jewish friends, the Ben-Gurion Society aims to provide a welcoming space to find or build your Jewish philanthropic community—something that can be hard to do on your own,” said UJF’s CEO Diane Sloyer.

“We are looking forward to celebrating our newest giving tier and joining with national leaders, while creating something meaningful and inspiring here at UJF,” said NextGen Steering Committee Chair, Micky Reich.

BGS draws inspiration from the principles of David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s visionary first prime minister. He believed in empowering young adults to harness their power, passion, and resources to create a strong and responsible Jewish community, both locally and globally.

BGS is open to individuals ages 21 to 45 who make a generous contribution of $1,000 or more to United Jewish Federation. BGS donors will directly support vital programs and initiatives that address the pressing needs of the community.

The many benefits of being a member of the Ben-Gurion Society include:

·       Interacting with local and national networks of like-minded individuals passionate about philanthropy and community building.

·      Receiving  invitations to exclusive events at private homes featuring distinguished speakers.

·       Engaging with community leaders and participating in business, social, networking, and volunteering opportunities.

·       Collaborating, networking, and forging meaningful relationships that extend far beyond each event.

·       Shaping the future of Stamford, New Canaan, and Darien’s Jewish community through collective action.

“Investing in your local and international Jewish community has the power to impact thousands of lives in countless positive ways—including your own,” said Reich.  

The founding members of NextGen’s BGS group include Chair Micky Reich, Robin Fischel, Greg Waldstreicher, Molly Rafalowicz, and Lee Soffer.

For more information about joining the Ben-Gurion Society or getting involved with NextGen, please contact Diane Sloyer@ujf.org