The Charlotte
JEWISH
NEWS
Vol. 47, No. 11 Kislev- Tevet 5786 December 2025
Be a Part of This: Federation Launches 2026 Annual Campaign with Marlee Matlin
By Jessica Goldfarb
“ As One” has long defined the spirit of Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’ s work— reminding us that strength, compassion, and a lasting impact resonate from our shared commitment to one another. This collective commitment will once again anchor Federation’ s Annual Campaign in 2026, but with a new addition.
While the 2026 Annual Campaign will continue under the guiding theme“ As One,” this year’ s Super Event introduces a complementary call to action:“ Be a Part of This,” inviting every member of the community to take part in that shared purpose. The highly anticipated event, serving as the official kickoff to the Annual Campaign, will take place on Jan. 22 and feature Academy Award-winning actress and activist Marlee Matlin as special guest speaker.
Raizel and Brian Kahn and Family
NONPROFIT ORG U. S. POSTAGE PAID CHARLOTTE NC PERMIT # 1208 CHARLOTTE, NC
Matlin, who has been deaf since she was 18 months old, has spent decades advocating for inclusion, accessibility, and equality. Her influence, however, extends well beyond Hollywood. A proud Jewish woman, she has spoken openly about her faith and identity throughout her career. In recent years, particularly following Oct. 7, she has used her platform to speak out against antisemitism and to call for unity across the Jewish world.
At The Super Event, Matlin will share her personal Jewish journey, reflecting on how her sense of belonging and responsibility has evolved in a time of rising hate and global uncertainty. She will also speak to why organizations like Federation matter: how they unite communities, respond to crises, and lead the fight against antisemitism through education as well as advocacy. Matlin’ s message of courage and
5007 Providence Road, Suite # 101 Charlotte, NC 28226 Change Service Requested connection ties directly to Federation’ s mission and the spirit of this year’ s Super Event theme,“ Be a Part of This.”
The Super Event will be cochaired this year by Brian and Raizel Kahn.“ We are so honored to help. The Super Event is a powerful reminder that when our community shows up, as givers, learners, and partners, we strengthen Jewish life for everyone.”
The Annual Campaign exists to unite the community“ As One” and to sustain Jewish life at every level. Every dollar raised supports diverse agencies in Federation’ s network of care that sustains Jewish life across the greater Charlotte area. From connecting people with their Jewish identity and community through engaging programs, to combating antisemitism and ensuring care and security for Jews locally, nationally, and around the world, the Annual Campaign makes it all possible.
The Annual Campaign will be co-chaired by Kara Culp and Lisa Levinson; two dedicated community leaders whose experience and passion continue to strengthen Federation’ s mission.
At its core,“ Be a Part of This” speaks to the power of showing up.“ From a young age, I was taught by my parents, through example and thoughtful conversations, being a part of the Jewish community and giving to the best of my ability was my
Women’ s Philanthropy: Inspiring Strength and Dialogue with Dr. Rachel Fish
Marlee Matlin( Continued on page 5)
By Jessica Goldfarb
Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’ s Women’ s Philanthropy Fall Kickoff gathered women from across the community for an evening of connection, reflection, and empowerment featuring renowned scholar and educator Dr. Rachel Fish. Known for her decades of work confronting antisemitism and advancing Israel education, Dr. Fish brought warmth, candor, and conviction to her talk, reminding the audience that while antisemitism is an ancient hatred, resilience and education are timeless responses.
Dr. Fish, co-founder of the nonprofit Boundless and senior advisor to numerous Jewish organizations and universities, is recognized as one of the most influential voices addressing the challenges facing Jewish identity today. Her insights framed the evening around a central message: the responsibility to educate, engage, and empower begins within our own families and communities.
Preferring to walk among the audience rather than stand at a podium, Dr. Fish spoke conversationally, eliciting laughter, gasps, and moments of quiet reflection
( Continued on page 3)
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