• The incredible Jewish professionals in this community who work day in and day out on your behalf. I am deeply thankful for their hard work and dedication during a year filled with tremendous adversity. I am in awe of what they continue to accomplish in bringing key programs and services to Jews throughout the Greater Portland area and beyond.

• None of our work happens without the volunteer leaders who give so much of their time, interest, care, brain power, and efforts to enrich Jewish life. I am amazed by the commitment and devotion from these individuals.

• Together, they have created and nurtured an array of Jewish experiences for people of all ages. Synagogues, social service agencies, summer camps, day schools, pre-schools, Shabbat dinners, young adult activities, cultural institutions, "do-it-yourself" Judaism, and the list goes on and on with options accessible to anyone. We should be so proud of the breadth and depth of Jewish life in our great community.

• The success of our annual Campaign for Community Needs continues to exceed expectations. We are grateful to everyone who has already made their generous pledge to Campaign 2022. To make your donation, please click here.

• We continue to lead change in the community at-large. The Jewish Federation is a co-founder of United in Spirit, a broad-based nonpartisan coalition of faith-based organizations. We mobilize around a variety of issues to make our community stronger, including addressing houselessness in Portland. Please read this important Op-Ed that appeared in The Oregonian in our push to address this challenge.

• We have been fortunate to live in a Jewish community that has not experienced anti-Semitism like many other places. We continue to focus on security for our Jewish institutions, and we share concerns about rising anti-Semitism with the community at-large.

• COVID vaccine. It is here and available. Let's also not forget health care workers, teachers, food service employees, and so many more on the front lines who have helped us navigate through the pandemic.

• Most importantly, my family! I could not do what I do without their incredible love and support.