The Story of Jewish Broward: A Legacy of Courage, Unity, and Impact

What we know today as the Jewish Federation of Broward County was born from the vision and determination of two vibrant Jewish communities — each built on the belief that when we come together, we can transform lives.

It began in Hollywood, Florida, on March 19, 1943, when eight courageous men gathered with a bold dream: to care for their growing Jewish community. With just $9,000 raised from local families, the Jewish Welfare Federation of Hollywood was founded. That modest beginning ignited a movement. By 1990, the Federation had grown into a powerhouse, raising more than $5.5 million annually and supporting a professional team of over 40 people, strengthening Jewish life across South Broward.

Meanwhile, a few miles north, a historic moment stirred another call to action. In 1967, as the world watched the unfolding of the Six Day War, the Jewish Federation of Greater Fort Lauderdale was founded to meet the urgent needs of East Broward’s growing Jewish community. It was a Federation fueled by passion and purpose, nurturing institutions like the David Posnack Hebrew Day School and JAFCO — both of which received their earliest support through Federation grants. In 1977, this Federation launched the Senior Hot Kosher Meal Program, ensuring no senior in Broward would be forgotten — a program that still nourishes lives today. By their 20th anniversary in 1987, more than 30,000 donors helped drive their Campaign to an astounding $6.5 million.

As both Federations expanded, it became clear: geography divided them, but their mission united them. In 1996, after years of dialogue and vision-sharing, these two Federations merged to form the United Jewish Community of Broward County (UJCBC). Their goal was clear — to act collectively and responsibly to protect and enrich Jewish life in Broward, in Israel, and around the world.

The newly united UJCBC became a force for good, extending its arms to every corner of Broward's rich and diverse Jewish population. It enhanced Jewish life by funding two senior centers, multiple day schools, and two Jewish Community Centers. Through global partnerships with the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), UJCBC brought food, healthcare, rescue, and migration services to vulnerable Jews across 75 countries.

Today, we are proud to be known as the Jewish Federation of Broward County — a Federation that embodies the spirit of those early visionaries while boldly advancing into the future. Our work is strategic, collaborative, and impactful.

This past year alone, we invested $19.5 million in more than 100 programs to support the vulnerable, ensure community safety, stand with Israel, foster Jewish engagement, build inter-community bridges, and respond to crises.

Our Jewish Community Foundation of Broward County, formed through the merger of the two original Federation foundations, stands as a testament to foresight and unity. With almost $200 million in investable assets, it is a vital engine for securing the Jewish future and enabling every donor to leave a lasting legacy.

Together — with your support, with your vision — we are making an impact each and every day. We are writing the next chapter in a story that began with eight men, $9,000, and a dream of a stronger Jewish tomorrow.