Shalom Austin

As Sukkot comes to a close, we gather for Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah - a time to pause, celebrate, and embrace the joy of Torah. Wishing you a meaningful Shemini Atzeret and a joyful Simchat Torah!

Shalom Austin Community Mission Trips are BACK!

We are thrilled to invite community members to join us in traveling to Mexico City, December 2-6, 2026. Join us for a unique opportunity to travel to one of the world's largest and most vibrant Jewish communities!

The mission, led by Rachel Stern, Shalom Austin CEO, and Alachua Haskins, Shalom Austin Senior Impact Director, will include meetings with Jewish community leaders, visits to local Jewish institutions, rich cultural experiences throughout Mexico City, and opportunities to celebrate Shabbat and Hanukkah together.

Learn more and register today at www.shalomaustin.org/destination2026!

Jewish Federations of North America are relieved that the passengers and crew of the FlyDubai flight bound for Israel are safely home, following an apparent attempt to bring down the aircraft mid-flight.

We are deeply grateful to the pilot who, while injured, managed to open the cockpit door, to the crew members and passengers who acted swiftly to bring the plane to safety, and to the Saudi authorities for shepherding the passengers home. Their courage prevented what could have been an unspeakable tragedy. We wish the captain, and all those injured, a full and speedy recovery.

While the full details of what occurred are still emerging, what is clear is that in a moment of crisis, people came together to protect one another. That instinct — to stand up, to help, to refuse to let terror define the outcome — reflects the very best of the human spirit, and stands in stark contrast to whatever motivated this attack.

Jewish Federations will continue to monitor the situation closely and stand with our community and our partners across the region as more information becomes available.

✨ Join us for an exclusive Ladies Lunch & Learn featuring two inspiring leaders from our Partnership2Gether community, Professor Khetam Hussein, MD, MBA, and Smadar Ocampo, RN, MPH.

Hear directly from these remarkable women about their personal and professional journeys, and how your philanthropy helps strengthen Israeli society.

Over lunch, they’ll share insights on leadership, service, and the experiences of women and minority communities helping shape Israel’s future. It’s a unique opportunity to hear firsthand from women making a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

💙 Come connect, learn, and be inspired! Register today at https://bit.ly/4z6yKUx

Chag Sukkot Sameach from all of us at Shalom Austin!

We continue to send our thoughts and prayers to the Belleville, Ontario community following the horrific shooting outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue as they gathered to observe Yom Kippur.

Jewish Federations of North America are horrified by the shooting outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, as members of the Jewish community gathered to observe Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.

Jews must be able to gather in prayer and community without fear, and we urge authorities to fully investigate this attack and hold those responsible accountable.

As we learn more details, we pray for the full and speedy recovery of those injured, and thank the heroic law enforcement officer who engaged the shooter and sustained injuries.

We stand in solidarity with the Belleville Jewish community at this deeply painful moment, and will never back down on our fulfilling community’s security needs.

Jewish ATX, share your story!

The 2025 Study of Jewish ATX gave us a great snapshot of our community. Now we want to hear more, directly from you!

This fall, we will host small group conversations focused on what this demographic study revealed, so we can turn those insights into real action for Austin's Jewish community.

Apply to share your voice at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/JewishATX

From all of us at Shalom Austin, we wish everyone an easy fast and a meaningful day of reflection.
For Yom Kippur, the Shalom Austin offices are closed tomorrow, September 21, in observance. For our hours, please visit shalomaustin.org/hours

We enjoyed making memories at the Inspired Aging Rosh Hashanah Luncheon last week!

This year, Shalom Austin Jewish Family Service welcomed 150+ adults ages 60 and better to its annual Inspired Aging Rosh Hashanah Luncheon. We want to thank everyone who helped us make this a memorable event.

A very special thank you to Rabbi Kelly Levy and Cantorial Soloist Sarah Avner from Congregation Beth Israel for leading a joyful celebration, 512 Boutique Events for catering a delicious meal and all of the volunteers and staff who helped make this event possible!