As we enter the Chanukah season, the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of Greater Phoenix reflects on a year marked by both profound challenges and meaningful moments of connection. This is a time to recommit ourselves to being a source of light, resilience, and bridge-building within our community and beyond.

The JCRC of Greater Phoenix works to strengthen relationships across our diverse Jewish community and to build enduring bridges with other faiths and ethnic communities. By fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and shared action, we advance safety, inclusion, and our collective fight against all forms of hate and prejudice, including antisemitism.

Over the past several years—and especially in the aftermath of October 7—our community has faced significant turmoil. Families have questioned whether it is safe to send their children to Jewish preschools. Jewish students have experienced harassment in high schools and on college campuses. Public discourse has too often been shaped by misinformation and harmful narratives, and some of our non-Jewish neighbors have felt hesitant about engagement during this painful time.

At the same time, there are important signs of hope. Many individuals have renewed their connection to Jewish life, coming together for comfort, solidarity, and Jewish joy. Journalists have turned to JCRC resources to improve the accuracy and depth of their reporting on Jewish and Israeli issues. Faith leaders and community partners across Greater Phoenix have stepped forward, standing with the Jewish community against hate and affirming our shared humanity.

Throughout it all, the JCRC has remained a steady presence—often working quietly and behind the scenes—to convene conversations, build trust, educate, listen, and engage. This work is not always visible, but it is essential.

As the JCRC prepares for the year ahead, we look forward with optimism. The organization is led by a dedicated volunteer board, a committed executive director, and many passionate community members. With incoming Board Chair Erika Neuberg and Vice-Chair Rabbi Bonnie Sharfman, the JCRC has exciting plans for 2026 and beyond, and we invite the community to continue walking this path with us.

While the JCRC is grateful for the support of local foundations, including the Center for Jewish Philanthropy, our work depends primarily on individual contributions. As the calendar year comes to a close, we invite you to support this mission with a meaningful, tax-deductible donation.

Your generosity ensures that the JCRC can continue to be a source of strength, connection, and advocacy for the Jewish community of Greater Phoenix.

Please be a light for the JCRC this Chanukah by making a year-end contribution. JCRC Tax ID: 82-1553383

To learn more about the JCRC or to explore ways to become involved, please contact:

• Board Chair: boardchair@jcrcphoenix.org

• Executive Director Rabbi Mindie Snyder: rabbi.snyder@jcrcphoenix.org

Chag Chanukah Sameach. May this season bring light and blessing to you and your loved ones—and thank you for helping bring light to our community.

Alan Zeichick

Board Chair

JCRC of Greater Phoenix