MY Federation from the Ouside-In

​By: Lauren Light, former Campaign Development Officer for Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta

As a native Atlantan, I grew up playing sports at the JCC, attending Jewish day schools, and going to Jewish summer camp. Each of these programs and activities had a profound effect on my Jewish identity and help shape the person I am today. Yet it wasn’t until I actually worked at Federation that I realized all of these programs are made possible by Federation’s support.  Working at Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta for the past 3 years, I now see the Atlanta Jewish community from a completely different perspective.  I now know how Federation works to plan and allocate money to best benefit the community as a whole.  And how Federation professionals and volunteers work tirelessly to plan for the community’s needs – to care for Jews in need today and build a strong Jewish community for tomorrow. They also raise funds to meet the needs and monitor the outcomes to show the community that their money is being used wisely.  

As I start a new chapter in my life, I will never forget the lessons and values I gained from Federation. I am proud to have been a part of Federation – a community and family-oriented organization that truly cares for the Jewish people and community it serves.  Whether it is providing scholarships to send kids to Jewish camp or helping a senior with financial assistance, Federation is here to help. I know that now and will continue supporting Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta because of the impact it has on my own life, the Atlanta Jewish community…and for the impact I know it will continue to have for generations to come.