Milwaukee Jewish Federation

The Milwaukee Jewish Federation is the central organization for Jewish communal life in greater Milwaukee, working to ensure the continuity of the Jewish people, enhance the quality of Jewish life, and build a strong, unified Jewish community locally, in Israel, and around the world. Through community-wide fundraising, strategic planning, and allocations, the Federation supports a network of agencies, schools, and programs that serve Jews of all ages and backgrounds.

The Federation operates a wide range of departments and initiatives, including the Israel Center (which oversees Shlichut and Partnership2Gether programming connecting Milwaukee with Sovev Kinneret), the Coalition for Jewish Learning, Jewish Museum Milwaukee, the Jewish Community Foundation of Milwaukee, and the Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle — the community’s monthly newspaper. It also owns and manages community properties, including the Evan and Marion Helfaer Community Service Building, which houses Federation offices and many programs.

For young adults and emerging leaders, the Federation runs the nationally recognized NextGen (George Weinstein Fellowship) leadership program, social and professional networking opportunities, and a robust portfolio of Israel travel options — from Teen Mifgash exchanges to young adult missions. The Jewish Community Foundation also offers scholarships and grants that send Jewish teens and young adults to summer camps, college, and immersive Israel experiences.

Whether through philanthropy, advocacy for Israel, Jewish education, cultural programming, or direct community service, the Milwaukee Jewish Federation serves as the convening backbone of Milwaukee’s Jewish community.