2024 Year in Review

Dear Friends,

Over the past 12 months, we have faced profound challenges — from a global surge in antisemitism and heightened security threats to the urgent need to reinforce Jewish unity. Our hearts
remain broken for the victims of the October 7th massacre and for those still held hostage by Hamas. Yet we refuse to let hatred define us.

In a world forever changed, we find hope in the global outpouring of support for Israel and the Jewish people, and in the renewed surge of Jewish pride and resilience.

Kol Yisrael arevim zeh ba’zeh — every Jew is responsible for each other. Now more than ever, we recognize the vital role that JEF plays in sustaining and ensuring the well-being of our Jewish community.

Now more than ever, we recognize the vital role that JEF plays in sustaining and ensuring the well-being of our Jewish community. We are proud to foster and support philanthropic giving and acts of tzedakah, enabling Jewish agencies and institutions to focus on delivering the essential services and programs our community depends on. Because of your generosity, our collective future is stronger.

Our dedicated donors continue to demonstrate that JEF is at the heart of our community’s strength. Of course, none of this would be possible without the tireless efforts of our Board of Directors
and professional staff. We are honored to help you create funds that reflect your values and ensure lasting impact for generations to come.

While we are thankful for our present position of strength, our current Board leadership and staff are aiming higher. We are conducting a comprehensive review of our strategic goals, including those actions that have driven our success while identifying opportunities to serve you better. We are committed to meeting the current and future needs of our individual donors, supporting foundations, constituent agencies, and ultimately our entire Louisiana Jewish community. This process will challenge us to grow, and we welcome your input. In an ever-changing world, JEF remains a cornerstone of our community’s enduring strength.

Together, we are building a stronger, more connected Jewish community — for today and for the future.

Bob Brickman, Board President (Jan. 2025 – Dec. 2026)

R. Justin (Bobby) Garon, Executive Director