Building community through service

Nammie Ichilov, Federation President & CEO

When I reflect on my journey to leading Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, I am struck by how the seeds of service were planted early in my life. As a college student waiting tables to make ends meet, I learned fundamental lessons about hospitality that would shape my entire career. Every guest taught me something about the importance of making others feel welcomed and valued — lessons that would serve me well through my 30 years in education and now in Jewish communal service.

Here in Greater Naples, our community embodies this spirit of welcome. Disproportionate numbers of residents have come from somewhere else, bringing with them diverse experiences and perspectives that enrich our collective Jewish life. This reality makes our commitment to hospitality not just a value, but a lived experience. As our sages teach in Pirkei Avot, “Receive every person with a cheerful countenance” (1:15), reminding us that the way we welcome others reflects the Divine spark within each of us.

Jewish Federation of Greater Naples serves as the central address for putting these values into action. Our programs aren’t just services, they’re bridges building meaningful relationships throughout our community. Whether it's our newcomers’ welcome events, cultural programming or social services, each initiative strengthens the bonds between us, making us truly stronger together.

As we celebrate the holiday of Tu B’Shvat (the Jewish holiday that marks the New Year of the trees) this month, I am reminded of the Talmudic story of Honi, who saw an old man planting a carob tree. When asked why the old man would plant a tree whose fruits he might never see, he replied, “Just as my ancestors planted for me, I too plant for my children.” Like that wise gardener, Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ work is about nurturing growth for future generations.

Our community’s roots run deep in service, and like a well-tended garden, we continue to grow and flourish. Every program we offer, every relationship we foster and every act of kindness we coordinate plants seeds for tomorrow. From my early days as a waiter to my current role leading Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, I have learned that service is not just about meeting immediate needs; it’s about cultivating a community where everyone can thrive.

As we enter this season of renewal, I invite you to join us in tending our community’s garden. Together, we can ensure that the Jewish community of Greater Naples continues to grow, welcoming all who seek to be part of our story. After all, our greatest strength lies not just in what we do, but in how we serve and care for one another.