What Is the “Federation of Jewish Communities”?

When you hear “Federation of Jewish Communities”, think of a powerful, caring network - a coalition built on the core Jewish values of tzedakah (charity), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and responsibility. In Delaware, our very own Jewish Federation of Delaware embodies this ideal.

But Federation is more than just an organization - it’s the heart and soul of Jewish communal life. It brings people together, mobilizes resources, and builds an agenda for the future. As the Federation itself puts it: “Federation is the PASSION OF COMMITMENT, where social justice can make a difference in someone’s life.

Our Mission & Vision: What Drives Us

At the Jewish Federation of Delaware, our mission is clear and bold: mobilize the Jewish community to address issues, meet needs, and build an agenda for the future.

Our vision is deeply rooted in Jewish heritage and is focused on both the local and global Jewish family:

• Strengthen the State of Israel
• Support global Jewish communities
• Bolster local Jewish organizations

What Does the Federation Actually Do?

Here are the key goals and programs that define our work:

1. Community Building & Identity

• We foster a strong connection to Jewish teaching and heritage.
• We help build Jewish leadership - not just for today, but for the future.

1. Resource Mobilization

• We raise funds through our Annual Campaign, ensuring that the most pressing needs in our community are met.
• We allocate resources to where they’re needed most - locally, in Israel, and in over 70 countries globally.

1. Social Services & Humanitarian Aid

• Through our network, we support programs that feed, clothe, shelter, counsel, and rescue people in need - both in Delaware and abroad.
• We create opportunities for meaningful engagement: from supporting Holocaust survivors to empowering young people through education.

1. Interfaith & Civic Engagement

• Federation provides a bridge between the Jewish community and non-Jewish communities, offering a structured way to interact, collaborate, and build mutual understanding.
• We participate in civic leadership and social justice efforts, strengthening the voice of Jewish Delaware in the broader society.

Why Federation Matters - In Delaware & Beyond

• Impact Locally: The Jewish Federation of Delaware supports a wide range of community organizations - schools, senior living, cultural bodies, and more.
• Global Reach: Through our work, we connect with international Jewish causes, ensuring that our community contributes to global Jewish welfare.
• Security First: We invest in community security, recognizing this as a critical need in today’s environment.
• Sustainable Philanthropy: Donors trust Federation because it acts as a wise steward - pooling resources for maximum impact. As one supporter said, “when I give to Federation … I know that my gift will be used responsibly
• Communication & Engagement: Our website, ShalomDelaware.org, is more than just informational - it's a portal for connection. It features a community calendar, volunteer opportunities, educational resources, and a secure donation platform.

How You Can Get Involved

• Volunteer: Give your time, expertise, or leadership - whether helping seniors, organizing events, or mentoring.
• Donate: Contribute to our Annual Campaign to support both local and global initiatives.
• Learn with Us: Explore Jewish education, heritage, and values through our programs and resources.
• Connect: Join our events or use our digital community tools to stay in the loop - via ShalomDelaware.org.
• Advocate: Help us strengthen Jewish advocacy, community security, and interfaith dialogue.