As you enjoy Passover, the Festival of Freedom, may you be reminded of the many blessings in life and the power of a strong Jewish community. Thanks to your support of the Annual Greater Miami Jewish Federation/UJA Campaign, thousands of people from all over the world have made aliyah (immigration to Israel) and are celebrating this Passover in freedom in Israel. Click here to watch this special video celebrating new beginnings. Happy Passover!

In response to the devastating April 16 earthquake in Ecuador, which has killed hundreds and injured thousands, Federation is collecting funds to provide immediate support and relief to victims and their families. One hundred percent of these funds will be disbursed through Federation’s overseas partner, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), to help those in need. Click here to join this vital nonsectarian effort.

Federation’s Jewish Volunteer Center is seeking volunteers for the Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) Observance on Sunday, May 1 at the Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach. Help out by welcoming event guests, assisting Holocaust survivors or reading aloud the names of those who perished in the Holocaust. For details about volunteer opportunities, as well as more about the event, click here.

Mazel tov to our Jewish Volunteer Center’s 2016 Volunteers of the Year, Gary Simon (left) and Felix Lichter (right), who were honored at this week’s Federation Board of Directors meeting. Simon was recognized for his outstanding work at Temple Judea and in the Jewish community at large, while Lichter received the teen category award for his ongoing work to bring attention to the issue of human trafficking. Click here to learn more about these highly dedicated volunteers. Tobi Ash (center) is JVC Chair.

Whether you are going through a difficult time in your life or wish to provide comfort to someone who is, Federation’s Mishkan Miami: The Jewish Connection for Spiritual Support is here for you. Mishkan Miami’s caring corps of Jewish chaplains, rabbis and trained volunteers work year-round to bring spiritual solace and joy to people who are lonely or ill. To learn more, call 786.866.8620 or email [email protected]. Click here to learn about the upcoming Ministering to the Elderly conference, sponsored by Mishkan Miami, Miami Jewish Health Systems and Jewish Community Services of South Florida.