Last summer, when I started working for the Jewish Federation of Edmonton, I was not exactly sure what to expect, as I was not aware of what the organization does for the community. Most of my work was assisting with planning programs such as the Israel Pavilion at the Heritage Festival and Pride Shabbat. By the end of my first work term, I finally understood the vital function of the Federation, and how it brings together the Edmonton Jewish community. Whether it is programming, education, or communication, every staff member has a role in ensuring the success of the Federation’s inner workings. I found myself invested. I, too, wanted to contribute to a thriving and vibrant Jewish community. That motivated me to stay involved throughout the year and join for a second summer as an employee.

This year, I thought I knew what would happen. However, this year’s experience differed from 2023 because of the challenges that the community has been encountering. Most of my work revolved around helping to address increased antisemitism post-October 7. It included creating an online incident database, filing evidence in our database, reporting incidents to the Edmonton Police Service, and assisting with developing advocacy strategies to address the problems that the community has been facing. This aspect of my role was eye-opening and deeply significant to me, as it allowed me to take part actively in addressing genuine issues that the community is facing and help build a safe and supportive environment for it.

Last year, working at Heritage Festival was a significant highlight of my term at the Federation. People were very interested in hearing more about Israel and the Edmonton Jewish community. Edmonton’s exploration of different cultures impressed me and I had a great time discovering other countries and traditions while sharing our own. Being part of Heritage gave me a renewed appreciation of how crucial it is to preserve my Jewish heritage and celebrate Israel while fostering an environment of cultural exchange and learning.

This year, the Heritage Festival was even more important, as it was a major opportunity for the community to show its solidarity with Israel at a very challenging time. The community’s response was inspiring. Volunteers came together and worked extremely hard on Sunday, delivering a high-quality experience at the Israel pavilion, which resulted in over 6,000 people visiting the pavilion. Interactions with the general Edmonton community were overwhelmingly positive. Many visitors showed their support for Israel. Some expressed concern for Israel. Others showed solidarity with our local Jewish community.

These exchanges revealed to me we are not alone, and that we have many allies outside of our community. Although damage from a severe thunderstorm cut short the festival, a large group of volunteers helped with teardown on short notice. The volunteers’ commitment was moving, and speaks a lot to the strength and resilience of the surrounding people. As a volunteer coordinator, I thank all everyone who has made it possible to run the pavilion and show our support for Israel at a difficult time.

After 14 weeks of working at the Federation over this summer, I feel a mixture of pride in what I have contributed, and sadness that I must leave as the school year begins in September. During my tenure at the Federation, I played an important role in crucial projects that ensure that the Jewish community in Edmonton continues to thrive. I have relished being a part of the wonderful group we have at the office, and made core memories I will remember for a long time.

Shabbat shalom,

Almog