Enriching Jewish life, here and everywhere.
We fund and cultivate programs that strengthen the Jewish community.
The Federation
The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston helps ensure a thriving, vibrant, and engaged Jewish community locally, in Israel, and around the world. The Federation provides opportunities for individuals and families to engage philanthropically and drives meaningful social change to enhance the continuity, security, and unity of the Jewish community.
Our Impact
How We Make a Difference
In the 21st Century, Jewish community doesn’t just happen – it must be created and cultivated. A thriving Jewish community means that everyone who wants to is able to find accessible and relevant ways to connect Jewishly. Our programs and networks educate and connect our community to both Judaism and Israel while celebrating the rich heritage and values of the Jewish people.
When my daughter, Alana, was in elementary school she noticed that during the winter holiday preparation, Chanukah was not given as much attention as Christmas.
While most of us come to the realization and accept that during the month of December, the big celebration for our Christian brothers and sisters tends to dominate our experience, Alana responded differently.
Shalom Friends –
I am honored to be the new President & CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and am excited to lead the Federation into its next chapter. In the coming months, I look forward to getting out into the community and having the opportunity to meet or reacquaint myself with many of you.
I welcome your ideas and input on how we can build an even stronger Jewish foundation for our next generation. You can reach me directly at ceo@houstonjewish.org or simply introduce yourself and say “hi” when you see me. I am grateful to be on this journey with you.
Shabbat Shalom-
Renée Wizig-Barrios
President & CEO
We are so glad to have Ben Samuels assume the role of Board Chair for the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston. Read the JHV article to learn more about Ben and his passion for Jewish causes.
Renée Wizig-Barrios to Assume Leadership of Organization
The Board of Trustees of the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston is pleased to announce that it has unanimously selected Renée Wizig-Barrios as the Federation’s next President & Chief Executive Officer.
A native Houstonian, Wizig-Barrios comes to the Federation after more than two and a half decades rising through leadership positions in Texas nonprofits. For the past 11 years, she has served as the Senior Vice President & Chief Philanthropy Officer for the Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF). There, she led a fundamental shift in the organization’s approach to its work and focused on moving from being an effective transactional platform for Donor Advised Funds to becoming a true hub for philanthropy that benefits both to donors and the Greater Houston community.
Velva and Fred Levine Make Historic Gift to Jewish Federation of Greater Houston
The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston’s Board of Trustees is proud to announce that longtime Federation supporters and Houston philanthropists Velva and Fred Levine have generously made the lead gift for the new Federation building, which will be named the Velva G. and H. Fred Levine Jewish Federation of Greater Houston Building. Read the full story in the JHV
Do a mitzvah. Wear a mask.
As a city and as a Jewish community, we all need to do our part in the fight against Covid-19. #maskuphou
Get Involved
Giving back
Getting involved with the Federation is about connecting with the Jewish community and being a part of making the world a better place. There are many ways to make a difference through the Federation.
Donation
The Federation touches more Jewish lives in Houston than any other organization. The key to our success is the dedication and compassion of our donors. Be a part of making a difference in our community by supporting the Federation’s Annual Campaign.
