Michal Becker, Engagement Director, Jewish Federation & Jewish Foundation of Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
The Nashville Jewish Community’s Afghan project has been meaningful, exciting, unpredictable, and sometimes intense. We supported families in one of the most challenging times of their lives. People had to leave everything behind them, including loved ones, belongings, and even their language and culture, to flee the dangers of their country. We welcomed them here in Nashville.

Through finding a place to live in a housing crisis, and establishing residency to opening bank accounts, navigating the complex healthcare system, enrolling children in school, finding transportation, and jobs; Jewish Nashville was there. Volunteer specialists provided medical care, legal services and tutoring. Our local congregations provided volunteers and funding to cover needs. Businesses and individual donors gave clothing, supplies, and funds to purchase necessities.
Most importantly, Jewish Nashville helped these refugee Afghan allies build trust in this country and showed them kindness and support so they could focus their energy on recovering and adjusting. Volunteers held their hands and stood with them to let them know they were not alone.

Our Afghan allies were not the only ones to become stronger throughout this project. We, as a community, became stronger, too. Jewish Nashville came together as one to welcome the stranger and to show our newcomers the true meaning of community.
East Side Tribe, a grassroots social and spiritual community fueled by Jewish values, hosted a Yom Kippur break fast, funded by a Jewish Federation grant. Community members gathered to enjoy a meal, to see friends, and to meet new ones. Although East Side Tribe is rooted in East Nashville, all are welcome to join in gatherings and programs. Learn more about East Side Tribe HERE.
Early voting begins next week in Davidson and Williamson Counties. For the Davidson County schedule for early voting, click HERE; for Williamson County, click HERE.
We are pairing volunteers with those new to Jewish Nashville for Jewish Newcomer Shabbat dinners. Those new or "new-ish" to Jewish Nashville are invited to attend the upcoming Newcomer Shabbat on November 11th. We are also looking for volunteers to host dinners in their homes. RSVP to the Shabbat dinner and learn more about hosting a dinner HERE, or email Eitan Snyder.
Tzedakah is the cornerstone of our Jewish community. Sometimes we give; sometimes we need to receive. It's okay to ask for help. We are here with confidential resources to lend a hand. Reach out for assistance HERE.

To receive Jewish Nashville obituary notices, email us HERE.