Adam Silver reflects with gratitude and looks ahead with excitement as the Jewish Federation of Ottawa launches its new strategic plan.
It’s now been over a year since I began serving as President and CEO of Jewish Federation of Ottawa and Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation. It’s also been the same amount of time during which my family has immersed itself in broader Ottawa, getting to know our beautiful and special city. Like most relocations, some speedbumps are inevitable. Finding a complement of new professionals to care for our family (dentist, doctor, vet) and deciding on the other businesses that support our daily routine (groceries, dry cleaners, favourite restaurants, etc.) has been an adventure. That said, we are getting closer to feeling settled, and we are very grateful for how the community has welcomed us.
On a professional note, I continue to be amazed by the talent, commitment, energy, and generosity of the professionals and lay leaders with whom I connect regularly, as well as the donors and leaders for whom a strong Jewish Ottawa is a key priority. In reflecting on my experience this past year, I have big aspirations for our community. We have infinite potential, and the will to bring our goals to life.
Over the summer, it seemed like Rosh Hashanah was very far away. However, this meaningful holiday is now right around the corner. It marks the beginning of a new year on the Hebrew calendar, a time of reflection, renewal, and fresh opportunities. It is the start of school, a post-summer reboot, and the kickoff month of our community’s annual campaign and Jewish Federation of Ottawa’s programming year. This is a special year in which we launch our brand-new strategic plan (2025-2030) which many of you helped shape, mapping out a bold future, one that will sustain us for years to come.
Rosh Hashanah invites us to pause and contemplate the achievements and challenges of the past year, and to set our intentions for the year ahead. Just as the blowing of the shofar symbolizes a wake-up call, let us take this opportunity to awaken our spirits, envision new possibilities, and strive for personal and collective growth.
As a community, we have accomplished incredible milestones together during the last year, overcoming obstacles, and embracing innovation. Our shared dedication, resilience, and creativity have propelled us forward, and I am immensely proud of all we have achieved. Even as we were challenged with ongoing issues of antisemitism, the ongoing war with Hamas, and increased programming and service needs, Jewish Ottawa stood strong and provided a diverse and welcoming home for all.
The coming year brings its own challenges and opportunities, and I am confident our community will step up. I know we will come together in times of need and each of us will individually and collectively support and contribute to a Jewish Ottawa of which we can all be very proud.
In the spirit of Rosh Hashanah, let us:
- Reflect: Take time to reflect on our achievements and learnings, recognizing the strength that comes from embracing both successes and challenges.
- Renew: Embrace the opportunity for personal and professional renewal. Let us renew our commitment to excellence, collaboration, and fostering a supportive environment.
- Connect: Reach out to colleagues and teammates, extending well wishes and fostering deeper connections. In our diverse and inclusive community, these connections are what make us stronger.
- Set Intentions: Just as many set business goals, let us set intentions for the year ahead – goals that align with our values, promote growth, and contribute to the betterment of our community and society at large.
- Give Back: Remember the importance of giving back. As we celebrate our successes, let’s also contribute to those less fortunate and make a positive impact on our local and global communities.
May this Rosh Hashanah be a time of sweetness, a time to savour the blessings of family, friendship, and community. May it also be a time of reflection and renewal, as we embark on the journey of a new year together. As we gather around the holiday table, let us remember the strength that comes from our unity. I hope we will all support one another, we will strive for and achieve great things, we will contribute meaningfully to this year’s campaign, and we will engage fully in community programming and activities.
From my family to yours, I extend my warmest wishes for a Shanah Tovah U’Metukah – a happy, healthy, and sweet New Year.
With great thanks for your trust and confidence,
- Adam Silver is the CEO & President of the Jewish Federation of Ottawa and the Ottawa Jewish Community Foundation.