Five ways we strengthened the JCC Global network in 5786 - and one major moment ahead

As 5786 draws to a close, we look back with gratitude at a year in which the JCC Global network turned connection into action. Across regions and programs, JCCs supported one another in times of crisis, strengthened professional and educational networks, and transformed global relationships into meaningful local impact.

1. JCC Global from Good to Great - Global Partnerships in Action 

The program, made possible by a grant from the Jewish Federations of North America, has grown into a vibrant global network of 10 active partnerships connecting 32 JCCs worldwide.

Together, these communities have developed ongoing relationships through joint projects, mentoring, and an impressive 235 Zoom meetings involving 2,769 participants engagements - from professional staff and lay leaders to community members. 

Two partnerships also expanded their online relationships through in-person delegations hosted by the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC in Bridgewater and the Kaiserman JCC in Philadelphia. 

2. Supporting JCCs and Communities in Ukraine 

Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine,  together with major North American philanthropic partners, JCC Global provided $1.5 million in direct support to 11 JCCs in Ukraine and 3 JCCs in Eastern Europe. In addition, partner JCCs in the USA raised nearly $400,000 for their colleagues in Ukraine. 

The impact is also reflected in sustainability: JCCs in Ukraine increased the funding they generated from external sources by an average of 30%.

3. Strengthening Regional Networks 

Throughout the year, JCC Global deepened its regional work, bringing JCC leaders together across borders so that no community builds alone. The year’s regional gatherings included the JCC Global delegation to the JCCA Mifgash in Atlanta, the UK seminar sponsored by Jewish Care, and the 6th Summit of European Jewish Leaders, convened by ECJC and JDC in Greece. 

JCC Global invested in the connections that let JCC leaders from around the world share expertise, test ideas against one another's realities, and carry practical solutions back to their communities. 

Regional networks are where Jewish Peoplehood becomes tangible: through peer learning, meaningful relationships, and mutual support that strengthen every JCC in the network. 

4. Da’at - Continuing to Invest in Jewish Educators 

Building on its first cohort, “Da'at - Revitalizing Jewish Education and Leadership in the former Yugoslavia Region”, supported by the Pincus Fund for Jewish Education, deepened its focus on advanced educational leadership, peer learning, and long-term sustainability, with returning participants mentoring newcomers.

Online sessions addressed Israel education in times of crisis, responses to antisemitism, Jewish identity and lifecycle, experiential methodologies, and community leadership, while a new regional mentoring framework paired participants into cross-community project teams. 

These teams are now developing individual and joint educational projects that turn learning into practical impact at home and strengthen cooperation across the region. 

This work will continue with the Da’at Educational Seminar in Israel this November. 

5. Standing with the Jewish Community of Venezuela 

Within hours of the devastating earthquakes, JCC Hebraica became a central hub for the community’s emergency response, providing shelter for those unable to return home, along with daily meals, medical care, and other essential support. 

Today, the community has begun the difficult process of repairing and rebuilding damaged and destroyed homes. Together with its partners and donors, JCC Global helped mobilize more than $100,000 in emergency assistance. 

Hebraica’s leaders asked us to share their gratitude: “At a moment when our community felt shaken, hearing from friends reminded us that we were not facing this alone. That is something we will never forget”. 

Looking Ahead: The JCC Global 11th World Conference of JCCs in Jerusalem

As we enter 5787, we look forward to bringing the JCC Global network together in Jerusalem for the 11th World Conference of JCCs, November 17-19, 2026. More than 25 countries are already represented, and all 10 “JCC Global - From Good to Great” partnerships will take part in the Partnership Retreat and World Conference.

Under the theme “Rooted Here, Transforming Everywhere”, JCC professionals, lay leaders, educators, and partners will come together to learn, build relationships, and explore how locally rooted JCCs can strengthen Jewish life around the world. Through inspiring speakers, immersive Jerusalem tours, creative educational experiences, stories of resilience, meaningful dialogue, and opportunities for collaboration, the conference will invite us to listen across differences, expand the circle of belonging, and shape more connected and resilient communities.

We invite you to join us in Jerusalem for this inspiring global gathering.

Learn more about the conference and register here.

Our Wish for 5787: Peace - within ourselves, within our communities, and throughout the world.

JCC Global Team