A message from Edmonton UJA Campaign co-chairs Farrel Shadlyn KC and Josh Raizman

by Farrel Shadlyn, KC and Josh Raizman

(Edmonton) – As we launch the 2026 United Jewish Appeal (UJA) campaign, we are reminded that every generation faces defining moments. This is one of ours.

Over the past several years, our community has experienced uncertainty and increased challenges. We have seen antisemitism rise at an alarming rate. We have watched Israel confront unimaginable losses while communities work to rebuild. At the same time, we have witnessed something remarkable: Jewish communities coming together with strength, resilience, and a renewed commitment to one another. That spirit is at the heart of this year’s campaign theme.

As One.

No individual, family, agency, or organization can meet these challenges alone. But together, we can. Through Jewish Federation, every gift becomes part of a collective effort to strengthen Jewish life in Edmonton, support those in need, protect our community, and maintain our enduring connection to Israel and Jews around the world.

Your support helps provide security at community programs, strengthens advocacy efforts through our partners, creates opportunities for Jewish connection and belonging, and supports a wide range of programs and services that touch lives every day.

As co-chairs of the UJA campaign, we have had the privilege of meeting people whose lives have been positively impacted by the generosity of our community. We have seen firsthand how a single gift, combined with hundreds of others, can create opportunities, inspire hope, and strengthen our collective future.

For Josh, this campaign marks his final year as co-chair. Looking back, one lesson stands out above all others: our community is strongest when we come together with a shared sense of responsibility for one another. That commitment has sustained generations before us and will sustain generations to come.

The future of Jewish Edmonton will not be built by one person. It will be built by all of us.

As one community. As one people. As One.

Farrel Shadlyn, KC and Josh Raizman are co-chairs of the 2026 Edmonton UJA Campaign.