From the Desk of Danny Cohn
February 6, 2026
Shabbat Shalom,
On Tuesday, our community gathered for the Jewish Federation of St. Louis’ annual Evening of Impact, a night that reminded us of what it truly means to live as a people bound not only by religion, culture, and history, but by responsibility for one another. We reconnected with friends, recognized community leaders, and celebrated Jewish St. Louis. We welcomed guests from our Communities2gether Partnership with Kibbutz Nachal Oz, whose residents were attacked on October 7. Their presence, and the bond we have created between our communities over the past two and half years, embodies a powerful truth: Jewish connection is not geography-bound; it is heart-bound, covenant-bound, and future-bound.
“Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh.” Y“All of Israel is responsible for one another,” which is a verse from the Talmud you have heard me reflect on many times. That sentiment was alive in the room. Over the past year, we have carried both challenges and blessings. We have confronted rising antisemitism and prayed with aching hearts for the hostages. At the same time, we have witnessed a surge of Jewish pride, deeper engagement, and a renewed sense of responsibility for one another across generations and across borders.
The Evening of Impact celebrated what happens when a community takes action. Together, our St. Louis Jewish community raised more than $10.55 million, the highest Annual Campaign total since 2009. Those numbers represent strengthened security so families can gather without fear, expanded social services so no one feels alone, and opportunities for Jewish learning, culture, and connection. This reflects a simple but powerful truth: impact is not created by institutions alone. It is created by people who choose to show up, give, volunteer, and lead.
We are reminded that the Federation is not only a fundraiser; it is a builder. A strategic steward of Jewish vibrancy, balancing urgent needs with long-term vision, collaborating with partners, and investing in the infrastructure that allows Jewish life to flourish. Safety, engagement, education, and belonging are not optional. They are the foundation upon which our future stands.
And this year, that future calls to us in a special way.
Our St. Louis Federation’s 125th anniversary is more than a look back. It’s a call forward.
We are standing at a rare and meaningful moment, a bridge between legacy and possibility. Today, we benefit from the community that was built for us. Now it is our time to build the community that future generations will inherit.
This is not a year for us to simply observe. It’s our time to participate. It’s our time to reconnect. It’s our time to bring a friend. It’s our time to tell our story. And most importantly it’s our time to step forward as stewards of the future we are building together.
There will be much more to come in the months ahead, but the invitation begins now.
Let us make this anniversary year not only a celebration of where we’ve been, but a declaration of where we are going together, proudly, and with purpose.
As Shabbat enters, may it renew our strength, deepen our gratitude, and inspire each of us to embrace our role in this sacred communal story. May we carry forward the promise entrusted to us, l’dor v’dor, from generation to generation.
Shabbat Shalom,
Danny Cohn
President & CEO
Jewish Federation of St. Louis
