A message from Rebecca Asbell and Benaron Gleiberman, Co-Presidents Jewish Federation of Edmonton

by Rebecca Asbell and Benaron Gleiberman

(Edmonton) – In every generation, there are moments when a community is called to build — not only for today, but for the future we imagine for those who will come after us.

For Edmonton’s Jewish community, this is one of those moments. With the launch of the L’Chaim campaign, we can bring the Oshry | Kipnes Jewish Community Centre to life as a vibrant, welcoming space where Jewish life can grow, connect, and thrive. The opportunity to support a project like this comes perhaps once in a generation, the chance to help shape not only a physical space, but the future of our community itself. The vision for the Oshry | Kipnes JCC has been shaped by our community to last for generations. Through extensive consultation over many years, we heard clearly what matters most: a place for connection, learning, and celebration. A place where youth can gather, families can engage, and individuals of all ages can feel a sense of belonging. Many of these priorities are already reflected in the plans for the centre, which will serve as a primary destination for Jewish communal life in Edmonton for years to come.

Now, there is a role for each of us to play. The Oshry | Kipnes JCC building has been purchased outright, and through the L’Chaim campaign we are building an endowment fund that will sustain programming and operations in perpetuity.

This means that every gift made today will continue to support Jewish life in our community in perpetuity–forever. What has inspired us most is the growing momentum. Community members are stepping forward in meaningful ways— some choosing to name spaces, others adding their names to the L’Chaim Donor Board, and many are stretching so they can contribute at levels that reflect the generational opportunity before us. Each gift, regardless of size, reflects a shared commitment to the future we are building together.

We invite every member of our community to be part of this moment. Whether by naming a space, adding your name to the L’Chaim Donor Board, or participating at a level that feels meaningful to you, each contribution helps bring our JCC to life. To make your gift, visit ecf.ca/lchaim.

L’Chaim—to life—and to the community we are building together.

Rebecca Asbell and Benaron Gleiberman are co-presidents of the Jewish Federation of Edmonton.