New Jewish Federation of Annapolis & the Chesapeake to Unite Jewish Life

This week a new chapter began for the Jewish community in Annapolis & the Chesapeake region. The Jewish Federation of Annapolis & the Chesapeake, the re-envisioned United Jewish Council of Anne Arundel County, has officially launched to build a thriving, safe, and inclusive Jewish community across the area.

The Federation brings together a diverse array of organizations, including Congregation Kneseth Israel, Congregation Kol Shalom, Hadassah (Annapolis Chapter), Jewish War Veterans (Uriah Levy Post 380), Jewish Women International (Tradition Chapter), Temple Beth Shalom and Temple Solel (Bowie).

“Our community is stronger when we come together,” said Jody Goldsmith, President of Congregation Kneseth Israel and Vice Commander of the Commodore Uriah Levy Jewish War Veterans Post 380. “This Federation provides a central hub for collaboration, support, and celebration, ensuring that Jewish life in Annapolis and the Chesapeake region continues to flourish for everyone.”

I’m delighted to serve as co-founder and Secretary of the Federation. After all, Annapolis and the Chesapeake are a true Goldilocks area for Jewish life — the policies, the climate, and the sense of community are just right. With approximately 250,000 Jews in Maryland, more and more are buying second homes on the Chesapeake or moving here permanently. We’re thrilled to help them, and longtime residents, connect with a welcoming, inclusive, and engaged Jewish community.

The Federation’s mission is clear:

“We build and sustain a flourishing Jewish community that is safe, caring, inclusive, and engaged. Guided by Jewish values, we work collaboratively to ensure the safety of Jews, combat antisemitism, support Israel and global Jewry, and strengthen Jewish life in Annapolis and the Chesapeake region. We connect Jews of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds to learning, service, and community, promoting unity, compassion, and shared responsibility for one another and a better future.”

The Jewish Federation of Annapolis & the Chesapeake will serve as the hub of Jewish life in the region, linking diverse communities and organizations. With a commitment to safety, inclusivity, and engagement, the Federation will works to preserve and celebrate Jewish traditions, culture, and values, while fostering meaningful connections, learning, and service opportunities for Jews of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

As the Federation forms its leadership and governance, it is actively seeking volunteers who are passionate about Jewish life. Interested individuals can look at our website (JFedA-C-org) or contact us at INFO@JFedA-C.org.