By Lauren Cohen, 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 vibrant, welcoming and full of opportunities to learn, celebrate, volunteer, build friendships, and find a meaningful sense of belonging.
Think of the Federation as your first resource: the hub for Jewish life throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties. If you are looking for a synagogue, school, service agency, social group, volunteer opportunity, cultural event, Holocaust education, athletics, or simply a friendly place to begin, we can help point you in the right direction. You do not have to figure it all out on your own; connecting people to community is what we love to do.
Once you connect with us, you can explore a wide range of local Jewish resources. Our Shalom SRQ magazine is a helpful guide to Jewish life in the area. You can also stay informed through the Jewish News, available for home delivery or online, which shares stories, updates, and happenings throughout our community.
One of the best ways to start building friendships is by joining us for our free Just Schmoozing and Chai Life Happy Hours. These fun, casual gatherings are designed to help you meet new people in a relaxed atmosphere. A cash bar is available, and we’ll provide a delicious nosh. Just Schmoozing takes place from 4:00–6:00 p.m., and for those who are still working you can join us for Chai Life Happy Hour from 6:00–8:00 p.m. Whether you come on your own or with a friend, you’ll find a warm welcome and plenty of opportunities to connect.
Be sure to mark your calendar for our special Newcomer Event, Six Degrees of Shalom, on October 28th at the Ora. This unique evening is designed specifically to help newcomers make meaningful connections, participate in an interactive activity and discover all that our vibrant Jewish community has to offer. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!
The Federation’s events calendar on our website is a wonderful way to discover everything happening at Federation. From educational programs and lectures to social gatherings, volunteer opportunities and family-friendly activities. Visit the calendar regularly to find the next Just Schmoozing or Chai Life Happy Hour, along with many other events that match your interests and introduce you to people who share them. Our website also hosts an online Community Calendar that lists Jewish events locally in our community hosted by other organizations, there is always something going on in our thriving Sarasota-Manatee Jewish community.
As Outreach Manager, I am happy to meet with you personally and help make those first connections feel easier. I can also introduce you to one of our amazing volunteer Shalom, You’re Home Ambassadors. These ambassadors know the community well and can help welcome you, answer questions and suggest ways to get involved based on your interests, whether you are looking for social connections, spiritual life, learning opportunities, volunteer service, or ways to engage with Israel and Jewish culture.
Starting in August, we will also offer a monthly informational gathering for newcomers. These casual drop-ins will include light refreshments, time for questions and conversation, and an opportunity to learn more about the Jewish Federation and the many resources available throughout our community. Each gathering will be followed by a walking tour of the campus, giving you a chance to become more familiar with the spaces where so much of our community life takes place.
If you cannot attend one of the monthly gatherings, no worries. Please reach out; I would be happy to connect with you, answer your questions and help you find your place in our Jewish community. Whether you are brand new or simply ready to get more involved, we welcome you warmly.
Here are ways Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee can help build your nest:
- Shalom SRQmagazine
- Jewish News
- JNewsNow weekly newsletter
- Jewish Federation website/events calendar
- Online Community Calendar
- Six Degrees of Shalom
- Just Schmoozing SRQ! & Chai Life Happy Hours
- Newcomer Gathering & Tour
- Meet with Outreach Manager Lauren Cohen
Lauren Cohen
Outreach Manager
941-706-0027
lcohen@jfedsrq.org