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Jan 16, 2024

Two Communities, Two Generous Jewish Hearts

A lifelong resident of Western Massachusetts, Ruth Weiss later owned a second home in Key Biscayne, and demonstrated her love and commitment to Israel and the Jewish people through annual donations to the Jewish Federations in both communities. Then, through a gift in her will, Ruth established a Lion of Judah Endowment in Western Massachusetts and Miami, making her a Forever Lion in both places. Ruth also inspired her daughter, Federation Board member Susan Weiss Firestone, to follow in her footsteps as both a Miami snowbird and generous philanthropist. “My mother was the epitome of a strong Jewish woman and was proud to pass this tradition on to her children and grandchildren — of whom, out of everything, she was most proud,” Firestone said lovingly of her mother, who passed away in December 2020. Today, Ruth’s legacy is shared through The Foundation of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation’s online Book of Life. To read Ruth’s story, click here. To learn how you can have your story — or that of a loved one — written in the Book of Life, contact Jill Hagler at [email protected] or 786.866.8627.

South Florida Legislators in Israel


South Florida Legislators in Israel


Last month, the Greater Miami Jewish Federation, Jewish Federation of Broward County, and Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County participated in the first-ever South Florida Legislators Mission to Israel.

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Providing Lifeline Services to Israelis Since 10/7

Providing Lifeline Services to Israelis Since 10/7

Our IEF has been helping Israelis with housing solutions, cash for essentials, transportation, clothing and other critical care; formula and diapers for infants; hygiene products for female soldiers; pastoral care, funerals and shiva/mourning support; safe places to stay; education and day care for evacuated children and more.

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Connecting Israelis Near and Far

Connecting Israelis Near and Far

The Wynwood-Israeli MH, led by three Israeli-American, is the first to not only connect young adults to the land of Israel but also with the people themselves, infusing Miami’s diversity into its hosted events and the surrounding neighborhoods.

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AMIA Bombing 30th Anniversary Commemoration

AMIA Bombing 30th Anniversary Commemoration

Commemorate the 30th anniversary of the AMIA Jewish Community Center bombing in Argentina on Thursday July 25 at 7 p.m. at the Aventura Turnberry Jewish Center (ATJC).

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