What We Do

The Federation serves the interests and well-being of the Jewish community, ensuring that our identity and continuity are realized.

The Federation:

Maintains links with and supporting the national Jewish communities of the United States, Israel and every part of the world

Builds a thriving local Jewish community and enriching its educational, cultural and social life

Raises funds for the support of overseas, national, and local Jewish philanthropic agencies

Provides for planning, coordination, administration and leadership development for local Jewish communal services

Safeguards and defends the civic, economic and religious rights of all Jewish people

Annual Campaign

The Campaign distributes vital funds to support our local Jewish agencies, ensuring our community’s needs are met across Central New York.

Women's Philanthropy

Women philanthropists are change-makers and community-shapers whom empower women to become leaders in their communities.

Israel Connections & Emergency Support

Federation mobilizes in crises and strengthens lifelong ties to Israel through education and travel; also supports relief, resilience, and post‑trauma services when needed. 

Camperships

$1,000 grants (plus need-based scholarships) to make immersive overnight Jewish camp more accessible for CNY families. 

NextGen CNY

Social, cultural, and holiday programs for Jewish young adults (21+) to build relationships and leadership in CNY (e.g., happy hours, sukkah gatherings).

The Jewish Observer  

Federation’s community newspaper covering CNY, Israel, and Jewish life; current and archived issues available online for subscribers and donors.

Community Happenings

Weekly community newsletter connecting everyone with the goings on in the CNY Jewish Community. 

Community Calendar

The region’s shared hub for Jewish events, learning, and cultural happenings across agencies and synagogues.

Upcoming Events

  • Join CBS-CS to celebrate all who hold a nurturing place in our lives—mothers, grandmothers, aunts, or those who provide similar care and love, regardless of their title.

Community Relations

This work keeps both the Jewish community and the broader community informed about issues, events, and concerns that significantly affect Jewish life, and mobilizes action when appropriate.

The Community Relations Committee fosters relationships with and between other religious, ethnic, racial and national groups in the Central New York area and addresses issues involving overt or potential antisemitism.

Convening, Advocacy & Community Planning

Planning & Coordination – Federation convenes agencies and synagogues, plans for evolving community needs, and advocates for Jewish civil, economic, and religious rights locally and globally.

Public Celebrations & Commemorations – Supports community-wide observances and cultural life, including Yom HaShoah, Yom Ha’atzmaut, and community festivals.

Support Core Agencies & Programs

Investing in the Organizations that Power Jewish Life - Federation invests in and partners with core agencies and programs that sustain vital services, strengthen infrastructure, and enrich Jewish life across the community.

Community Safety & Security

Community Security Program & Liaison – Leads a coordinated approach to safety through assessments, training, preparedness, and partnerships with law enforcement to protect community institutions.

Mission & Values

Guided by Torah, Tzedakah, Tikkun Olam, and L’Dor V’Dor, Federation builds a caring, connected Jewish future in CNY, Israel, and worldwide through philanthropy, engagement, education, and advocacy.