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A critical examination of the disconnect between Federation and communal engagement
- 14 June 2023
- 9:07 pm
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- 14 June 2023
- 9:07 pm
The failure of Federation to lead the Jewish community in engaging midlife adults is not only a missed opportunity but also a disservice to a significant portion of the population. (Photo: Canva Pro.)
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In a recent study conducted by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), a startling reality has come to light: the middle-aged and older Jewish population feels neglected and unfulfilled by their Jewish communities.
The study reveals that a significant portion of U.S. Jewish adults between the ages of 55 and 74 do not feel a sense of belonging within their communities, while nearly three-quarters of those not involved yearn for deeper connections with fellow Jews beyond the confines of the synagogue and religious traditions. These findings underscore a critical failure of Federation in leading and engaging a demographic that represents the largest segment of the Jewish community.
While much attention and resources have been allocated towards engaging younger adults, the study highlights a glaring oversight in the approach of Jewish Federations across North America. The middle-aged and older population, often referred to as midlife adults, has been neglected in the pursuit of building vibrant and inclusive Jewish communities. The consequences of this neglect are evident in the dissatisfaction and lack of fulfillment expressed by this demographic.
According to Sarah Eisenman, the chief community and Jewish life officer at JFNA, the study serves as a wake-up call for the Jewish community.
Eisenman acknowledges that while significant efforts have been made to engage younger adults, it is apparent that the needs and desires of midlife adults have been overlooked. With this demographic constituting the largest segment of the Jewish community, it is imperative to recognize and address their yearning for contemporary and meaningful connections within Jewish life.
The study also sheds light on the impact that deeper communal engagement can have on the well-being of older Jews as they navigate the next stage of life. Those who have cultivated a network of Jewish friends and actively participate in Jewish life exhibit a greater likelihood of experiencing positive feelings during this transformative period. By failing to prioritize the engagement of midlife adults, Federation not only deprives them of a sense of belonging but also undermines their overall emotional and spiritual well-being.
It is essential for Federation and Jewish organizations to acknowledge this failure and take immediate action to rectify the situation. The study indicates that middle-aged and older Jews seek opportunities to connect with others at a similar stage in life, indicating a desire for a community that understands and addresses their specific needs. The traditional focus on synagogue-centered engagement and religious traditions is no longer sufficient; a more comprehensive and contemporary approach is necessary.
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Federation must invest resources, time, and attention into creating innovative and meaningful avenues for communal engagement for the middle-aged and older Jewish population. This could include the establishment of social and cultural programs that cater to their interests and concerns, facilitating mentorship opportunities, and fostering intergenerational connections within the Jewish community. Furthermore, collaboration between Jewish organizations and community leaders is crucial in tackling this issue.
It is time for Federation to spearhead a collective effort that brings together various stakeholders, including synagogues, community centers, educational institutions, and cultural organizations, to create a comprehensive network of support and engagement for midlife adults. By fostering collaboration and sharing resources, the community can leverage its collective strengths and develop a more cohesive and impactful approach.
The failure of Federation to lead the Jewish community in engaging midlife adults is not only a missed opportunity but also a disservice to a significant portion of the population. Federation has the opportunity to revitalize and reinvigorate the Jewish experience for this demographic. It is time to prioritize the voices and aspirations of midlife adults, ensuring that they feel a sense of belonging and fulfillment within their Jewish communities.
Only through inclusive and meaningful engagement can Federation truly fulfill its role as a leader and advocate for the entire Jewish community, irrespective of age or stage of life. The time for change is now, and it is essential that Federation rises to the occasion, embracing the challenge and paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant Jewish future.
Ron East is an educator, community leader and public speaker. He’s spent a decade teaching in the Jewish and public school systems and spent a significant amount of time in various leadership roles in the not-for-profit sector including Executive Director of Football Manitoba and the Manitoba chapter of CFHU. Ron has published numerous newsletters, award winning magazines and online publications and is currently the Publishing Director of TheJ.Ca.
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Happy reading!
Thank you for choosing TheJ.Ca as your source for Canadian Jewish News.
We do news differently!
Our positioning as a Zionist News Media platform sets us apart from the rest. While other Canadian Jewish media are advocating increasingly biased progressive political and social agendas, TheJ.Ca is providing more and more readers with a welcome alternative and an ideological home.
We revealed the incursion of anti-Israel progressive elements such as IfNotNow into our communities. We have exposed the distorted hateful agenda of the “progressive” left political radicals who brought Linda Sarsour to our cities, and we were first to report on many disturbing incidents of Nazi-based hate towards Jews across Canada.
But we can’t do it alone. We need your HELP!
Our ability to thrive and grow in 2020 and beyond depends on the generosity of committed readers and supporters like you.
Monthly support is a great way to help us sustain our operations. We greatly appreciate any contributions you can make to support Jewish Journalism.
We thank you for your ongoing support.
Happy reading!
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