As we approach the Jewish New Year, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to our community. Over the past year, we have faced profound challenges—both globally and closer to home. These have not been easy times. Yet, even in difficulty, one thing has remained constant: the steadfast strength, compassion, and resilience of our greater Stamford, New Canaan, and Darien Jewish community.
I have witnessed incredible moments of support—neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers showing up day after day, donors giving with open hearts, and organizations working hand-in-hand to ensure that no one feels alone. These acts of kindness and solidarity, both large and small, are a daily reality check, reminding me that even in the most trying of times, there is still light.
As we look ahead to a new year, Rosh Hashanah offers us a sacred opportunity to reflect, to recommit, and to renew our collective spirit. It is a time not only to look inwards, but to reach outwards—to repair, to reconnect, and to reaffirm who we are as a people.
We are taught in our tradition:
“Teshuvah (Repentance), Tefillah (Prayer) and Tzedakah (Charity) avert the severity of the decree.”
These three pillars—spiritual return, heartfelt prayer, and acts of giving—serve as a roadmap in uncertain times. They remind us that although we cannot always change our circumstances, we can change how we respond to them. And when we respond together, guided by these values, we can move from despair toward hope. In these trying times, I am grateful that the Jewish calendar gives us this opportunity to reset.
Now, more than ever, we are called to do a little more and to be a little more connected. Whether that means volunteering our time, making a donation, checking in on someone who needs a kind word, or simply showing up to community events, each action plays a role in strengthening our shared commitment to community.
Our tradition teaches Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh—“All of Israel is responsible for one another,” reminding us that our strength lies in our unity. When we come together, we not only lift each other up—we lift the entire community.
On behalf of United Jewish Federation, thank you. Thank you for your unwavering support, your compassion, your generosity, and your faith in one another. Thank you for showing up, again and again, in ways big and small.
As we begin this new year, may it be one of renewal, connection, and continued growth. May we enter 5786 with open hearts and a shared commitment to each other and our local and global Jewish community. As One we are stronger. As One, we will continue to build, to uplift, and to endure.
Shana Tova U’Metukah—On behalf of UJF’s Staff, Board, and my husband Elliot, wishing you and your loved ones a sweet, healthy, joyous, and peaceful New Year.