Returning to Normal, Through Generosity and Collaboration
Since our last publication of The Jewish Outlook in March, society has slowly begun to return to normal. As the school year came to a close, students and their families attended graduation ceremonies and parties, end of year festivities and began summer travel. Camp is back in full swing on many fronts. Despite a very difficult 2020 summer, 2021 is off to a great start. JCamps exceeded its goal for camp registration this year and our Texas Jewish overnight camp partners, Camp Young Judaea and Greene Family Camp, are open and full of campers, staff and faculty.
As we return closer to normal and we emerge from the wilderness of this past year, we should reflect on the positive things that we learned about ourselves and our community. Two central stories truly guided us throughout the year: the power of philanthropy and innovation. The generosity of our community, along with help from our federal government, saved many of our Jewish institutions during the height of the pandemic. I witnessed how our community came together, across Jewish organizations to support one another in a time of great need.
I also saw firsthand a culture of innovation and collaboration unparalleled in my career as a Jewish professional. Part of the success of our community through this pandemic was the many ways we learned from each other in embracing creativity and innovation. It’s a true testament to the spirit of this community.
As we make our way through the summer and toward the High Holy Days and school year, may we all continue to be strengthened through our collective efforts.
L’Shalom,
Rabbi Daniel A. Septimus
Latest Posts
Unveiling Innovation: Interactive Display Showcases Stories from Israel
Carol and Kaylen Silverberg address the audience at the opening reception for the Carol & Kaylen Silverberg Family Interactive Wall Celebrating Israeli Innovation and Global Impact on Jan. 18 at the Dell JCC. Credit: Wendy Goodman By Wendy Goodman On January 18,...
In Precious Hours Beyond the Headlines
A war memorial in Ukraine. Credit: Rabbi Neil Blumofe By Rachel Cottle In early November 2023, closely following the heels of the October 7 attack, Neil Blumofe, senior Rabbi of Congregation Agudas Achim in Austin, Texas, traveled to Israel to lend what humanitarian...
Local Rabbi Accepted to Amplify Israel Rabbinic Fellowship
Amplify Israel Rabbinic fellows meeting with Israeli Reform rabbis on Kibbutz Mishmar HaEmeq. Courtesy: Rabbi Kelly Levy In August 2023, Rabbi Kelly Levy of Congregation Beth Israel in Austin, Texas, was accepted into the pilot cohort of the Amplify Israel Rabbinic...
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Fitness
Swimming
Tennis & Pickleball
More Sports
EDUCATION
Jewish Culture & Education
Early Childhood Program Preschool
After School & Childcare
Camps
ARTS & CULTURE
Literary Arts
Visual Arts
Theatre & Film
Dance
COUNSELING & SUPPORT
Jewish Family Service
Counseling & Groups
Case Management
References & Resources
Copyright Shalom Austin 2023. Privacy Policy.