From the Desk of Jeri Zimmerman

The monthly column of Jeri Zimmerman, executive director of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley

October 2026: To everything there is a season

October is a month that asks us to hold many emotions at once.

We remember October 7 and the lives forever changed by that day. We think about the families in Israel who continue to carry the weight of loss and uncertainty. And we are reminded, once again, of the importance of showing up fo…

Here for Good—because of YOU

“The world stands on three things: on Torah, on service, and on acts of loving kindness.” 
—Pirkei Avot 1:2

As Rosh Hashanah approaches, we enter one of the most meaningful seasons of the Jewish calendar, a time of prayer, reflection, gratitude, and renewal. During the High Holidays, we are…

Jewish pride, purpose, and community

Summer is often a season of renewal, a chance to slow down, spend time with family and friends, enjoy vacation, and recharge. For our Jewish community in the Lehigh Valley, summer is also a season of preparation: a time to look ahead and ask how each of us will help strengthen Jewish life in…

Here for Good 2026

As we conclude the 2026 Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs, I am grateful for the generosity, commitment, and vision of our community.

This year, our campaign theme, Here for Good, served as both a promise and a reminder. It reflects our long-term commitment to care for those in need, strengt…

From commemoration to celebrations

As spring unfolds across the Lehigh Valley, our community moved through the special events of remembrance, reflection, and celebration. During this Season of Independence, we honor our past, recognize sacrifice, celebrate resilience, and look ahead with hope.

We began with Yom HaShoah, a so…