Jewish Community Partners

By Lorraine Wolf, Manager, Community Impact

As we continue to kick off the 2026 Annual Campaign, we are proud to celebrate a milestone that connects our past to our future: the 90th anniversary of Memphis Jewish Federation. From now through June 2026, this year-long commemoration will honor the extraordinary journey of Federation—its vision, leadership, and impact on Jewish life in Memphis, in Israel, and across the globe.

Federation’s story begins in 1935, when the Jewish Welfare Fund was established with William Loeb as its first president. Formally incorporated in 1939 and renamed Memphis Jewish Federation in 1977, the organization has served as a unifying force for nine decades. Guided by inclusive leadership, Federation has brought together Jews from every background—Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, and beyond—to shape the vibrant, caring and unique community we cherish today.

A centerpiece of the anniversary celebration is a special photo series, shared through our platforms and the Hebrew Watchman, showcasing treasured images and memorabilia that capture pivotal moments in our history. These snapshots not only remind us of where we have been but also reflect the timeless values that guide us forward.

“As the current Chair of Memphis Jewish Federation,” says Jimmy Ringel, “I am deeply proud and humbled to join the 46 community leaders who have guided this storied organization over the past 90 years. From supporting the agencies, schools, youth groups, and congregations that directly serve our community, to operating impactful programs like PJ Library, Camp Scholarships, Teen Israel Experience, Israel Missions, Community Relations, and Hillels of Memphis, Federation’s influence on Jewish life is both far-reaching and profound.”

At the heart of this legacy is the Annual Campaign, Federation’s engine of collective responsibility and community giving. While the needs are ever evolving, the Campaign has remained constant in powering Federation’s mission of ensuring that our whole Jewish community is cared for, connected, and engaged. From Super Sunday traditions to the dedication of our volunteer solicitors, the Campaign continues to sustain Jewish Memphis while strengthening Jewish communities in Israel and worldwide. In September 1935, the Annual Campaign had a goal of $40,000. Ninety years later, our goal is 100-fold that amount – 4 million dollars.

Leadership, too, defines our story. Since 1935, 47 board chairs, six dedicated executive directors and countless campaign chairs have guided Federation with vision and purpose. From William Loeb, our first board chair, to today’s chair Jimmy Ringel, and from our earliest executive director Jack Lieberman to current President & CEO Laura Linder, lay and professional leaders have worked hand-in-hand to advance Jewish life.

In addition to serving as Federation board chair herself, Louise Sklar holds the unique distinction of being married to a former board chair, Jerry Sklar, and being the mother of another, Joel Sklar. Sklar notes: “My family has always felt it was necessary to support Jewish causes.  We are extremely proud of all the hard work and dedication of our Federation.  Without each, and every one of you, our agencies would not be as strong and vibrant as they are – – – not only Memphis, but globally. Our Federation enables every person to participate in making our Jewish world stronger.  We must continue to stand up and be counted.”

Locally, Federation’s history is filled with meaningful moments: Pillars of the Community galas, Taste of Israel celebrations, women’s luncheons, visits from notable Jewish speakers and from Israeli officials, Israeli Scouts Caravan performances, programs that engage the broader Memphis community and foster stronger intercommunity bonds, annual meetings, leadership programs and the meaningful work of societies like Maimonides and Lions of Judah. Each program has built connections, inspired philanthropy, and strengthened community bonds.

Equally central has been Federation’s role as guardian of memory and resilience. Through Yom HaShoah observances, the Holocaust Art & Essay Competition, and other initiatives, we have honored the six million and amplified the stories of survivors who rebuilt their lives in Memphis. The resettlement of Russian Jews is another defining chapter—our community opened its arms, welcoming families fleeing oppression and helping them create new homes and futures here.

Federation has also served as the planning arm of Jewish Memphis, convening leaders and stakeholders to address needs and close gaps in services. And our reach has always extended far beyond Memphis. From missions to Israel, Poland, and Cuba to emergency campaigns supporting European Jews during the Holocaust, Ethiopian aliyah, Israelis under attack, and Jews in Ukraine, Memphis has consistently risen to meet global needs with compassion and resolve—most notably filling a 180-passenger chartered plane to take community members to the D.C. rally to Stand with Israel. Our deep connection to our brothers and sisters in Israel has been reaffirmed through solidarity missions, rallies, impact programs, and our enduring sister-city bond with Shoham.

As we honor 90 years of leadership, resilience, and giving, we invite you to be part of this living legacy. Together, let us celebrate the leaders who built our foundation, reflect on the values that unite us, and envision the bright future ahead.

You can be part of this incredible story by supporting the Annual Campaign. To make your gift and strengthen the next chapter of Memphis Jewish life, please visit: jcpmemphis.org/donate-now.