Building community, one cup at a time

Nammie Ichilov, Federation President & CEO

Recently, during one of our local Meet and Greets, a community member asked me a simple, yet profound, question: “What do you mean when you say the Jewish Federation helps build community?” The question caught me off guard, surprisingly challenging to answer in the moment. I know community when I see it. I can point to its manifestations, describe its warmth and recognize its impact. But to define it? That proved to be far more complex than I anticipated.

In that moment, I found myself listing programs, describing events and sharing stories that illustrate community. But the true definition eluded me. Later that evening, I dove into a better understanding, consequently being able to better explain what community truly means. The dictionary offered two simple definitions:

• “A group of people with common characteristics or interests” and

• The definition that resonated deeply — “a feeling of fellowship with others”

This second definition captivates me. Community isn’t just about physical proximity or shared demographics. It's an emotion, a connection that defies simple explanation. As Howard Schultz, the visionary behind Starbucks, once said, “I was taken by the power that savoring a simple cup of coffee can have to connect people and create community.” His insight perfectly captures the essence of what Jewish Federation of Greater Naples strives to do — create spaces where people can come together, share moments and feel connected.

Mitch Albom, author of “Tuesdays with Morrie,” one of my most beloved books and, coincidentally, the opening speaker of last year’s Jewish Book Festival, expressed a profound truth that echoes this sentiment: “The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.” These words remind us that community is an active choice, a commitment to something larger than ourselves.

The challenge for organizations like Jewish Federation of Greater Naples is that community is deeply personal. Each individual experiences it differently — through a shared meal, a supportive conversation, a collective celebration or simply a moment of mutual understanding. We are not just creating programs; we're crafting opportunities for human connection.

I invite you — yes, you who is reading this column — to reach out and connect. Join us at our remaining Meet and Greets, participate in our Federation programs (go to JewishNaples.org to find out more) or simply stop by the Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center for a cup of coffee. Let's continue building the connections that transform a group of individuals into a true community.

Together, as one!