By Outreach Manager, Outreach Manager Welcome to the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Whether you have just moved to our community or have lived here for a while and have not yet had the chance to connect, we are so glad you are here. Our Jewish community is...
2026 Trending News
ShirLaLa Summer Concert – Gallery – July 10, 2026
July 10 ShirLaLa, renowned singer and guitarist, performed for a joyful family Shabbat experience, getting kids (and parents!) clapping, singing, and moving together. Campers and guests enjoyed Kona Ice and a lively interactive show.
Building Safer, Stronger Communities Through Engagement
By Pat Robinson, Chief Security Officer Strong communities are built on trust, communication, and shared responsibility. One of the most effective ways to strengthen the relationship between residents and law enforcement is through active community engagement...
On America’s 250th, We Must Work Together for Safety
Shepard Englander, Chief Executive Officer America’s 250th anniversary evokes deep gratitude for American Jews. Jews have never enjoyed greater freedoms than in America, where we have been able to practice our faith proudly and openly, build strong...
Jewish Figures in the American Revolution: Francis Salvador (1747–1776), the Paul Revere of the South
July 4, 2026 marks the United States of America’s Semiquincentennial—250 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Arnold Kaplan, who started the Kaplan Collection of Early American Judaica with his late wife Deanne will share with us stories and...
Local Holocaust Survivor Speaks in Germany at Event Marking End of Second World War
Bette Zaret, Holocaust Education Initiative As she nears 99 years old, local Holocaust Survivor Helga Melmed continues to ensure that the lessons of history are neither forgotten nor ignored. Last month, Helga was invited by the city of Hamburg, Germany to address the...
Fiddler on the Roof: A Story for the Ages
Bette Zaret, Holocaust Education Initiative I have seen “Fiddler on the Roof” more times than I can count. I know the music, the humor, and the heartbreak well. Yet the recent and magnificent production at Asolo Repertory Theatre felt entirely new to me. It...
Are You Storm Ready? Essential Tips for Hurricane Preparedness
Pat Robinson, Chief Security Officer Hurricane season is once again upon us here in the sunny State of Florida, which means it is time to review your hurricane preparation and planning! GET READY NOW First and foremost, you need to prepare for these storm...
What 60,000 People Walking Together Taught Me About Jewish Community
Laurie Scott, Director of Donor Impact This weekend, I had the privilege of traveling from Sarasota to Toronto to join friends and tens of thousands of others at UJA Federation of Greater Toronto’s Walk with Israel. This walk has a 57-year history. I expected the...