Jewish Federation of Fort Wayne
Get Involved
Fort Wayne’s Jewish community is built by people who show up. Whether you want to volunteer, join the board, donate, or simply attend an event — there’s a place for you here.
Why Your Involvement Matters
Small Communities Run
on Dedicated People
Fort Wayne has nearly two centuries of Jewish community history. That continuity didn’t happen by accident — it was built by volunteers, board members, donors, and community members who decided to show up.
The Federation is a volunteer organization. Every event, every program, every outreach effort runs because community members give their time, their expertise, and their resources. The next generation of Fort Wayne Jewish leadership starts with someone deciding to get involved.
How to Get Involved
Ways to Participate
Every level of involvement matters. Find the one that fits where you are right now.
Volunteer at Events
Help set up, greet guests, or assist at Federation events, Rosh Chodesh dinners, and community programs. No commitment required — just show up.
Support Camp Joe
Volunteer as a counselor, help with logistics, or donate to the campership fund to ensure every child who wants to attend Camp Joe can.
Attend Community Events
The simplest form of involvement. Come to a Rosh Chodesh dinner, attend a speaker event, show up at the Annual Meeting. Your presence matters.
Make a Donation
Support the Annual Campaign, Camp Joe, Project 216, or a named fund. Every gift — at any level — sustains Jewish life in Fort Wayne.
Subscribe to Chailights
Stay informed and share the newsletter with friends and family who have a connection to Fort Wayne. Diaspora engagement starts with staying connected.
Join the Board
Federation board members shape the direction of Jewish life in Fort Wayne. We’re always looking for dedicated community members ready to lead.
Mark Your Calendar
Annual Meeting
The Federation’s Annual Meeting is the community’s flagship gathering — a chance to hear from leadership, celebrate the year’s accomplishments, recognize volunteers, and look ahead. If you’re considering getting more involved, the Annual Meeting is the best place to start.
New and prospective community members are especially encouraged to attend. It’s a low-barrier way to meet board members, see the Federation’s work firsthand, and find your entry point into the community.
Annual Meeting
Date and location announced each year. Contact the office or subscribe to Chailights to receive the announcement.
Subscribe for UpdatesLeadership
Join the Federation Board
The Federation Board sets the strategic direction for Jewish life in Fort Wayne. Board members bring a range of backgrounds — business, education, healthcare, law, and more — and a shared commitment to the community’s future.
Current Board Leadership
The Easiest First Step
Come to a Rosh Chodesh Dinner
Not ready to join the board or volunteer? That’s fine. The easiest way to get connected is to come to dinner.
Every third Wednesday of the month, the Fort Wayne Jewish community gathers for a Rosh Chodesh dinner. No agenda, no commitment required. Just show up, meet people, and see what the community feels like from the inside.