Jewish Federation’s 65th anniversary bridges past and future

Over the span of 65 years, the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee has grown from a small group of individuals working to foster and connect the area’s Jewish community to a robust organization dedicated to the same mission. That fact was evidenced by the Jewish Federation’s celebration Feb. 25, held at its new event space, The Ora.

The event marked the importance of marrying the past, present and future with its programming, which included performances by Israeli American dance ensemble Keshet Chaim, and a show of solidarity with a section of empty chairs bearing photos of missing Israelis from the kidnappings in Israel last year.

During the evening, the organization thanked Bruce Udell for his service as board president while also welcoming Deb Kabinoff, who will become president of the board starting April 1.

The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee holds programming and events throughout the year to connect and engage the Jewish community. This includes education grants, mission trips to Israel and efforts to fight antisemitism.