This Tree Is a Reminder That Life Is Beautiful
An artist uses the power of nature and symbolism to both honor those who have passed away and support the JPSS.
J Life
Features
In-depth stories from Jewish life in Central Florida. · 291 stories
Cycling for Love... and a Cure
Several members of our Jewish community put their pedals to the metal for the American Diabetes Association.
Life Story
Bob Herpe proves it’s never too late to write the Great American Novel. He just published his second at age 95.
Jewish Pavilion, At Your Service
With a new name and look, Jewish Pavilion Senior Services keeps enriching lives.
Worn With Pride
This local jewelry maker is helping the community heal and connect with Judaism’s most powerful symbols.
Rock Star
A Longwood artist takes the fun trend of rock painting to a more beautiful – and more personal – level.
Hope and Healing
Local leaders, artists, and kids work together to bring a colorful Israeli art project to Central Florida in the wake of October 7.
Making Community Connections
Shalom Orlando’s family engagement director builds bridges to Judaism through partnerships and PJ Library books.
Protect AND Serve
For Shalom Orlando’s security director, everything starts with feeling safe.
The Gotlibs' Gift of Education
Samra and Dr. Bernard Gotlib’s story of hope and endurance inspires their giving.
BAR None
A professional organization for Florida’s Jewish lawyers and judges is bolstering its efforts to unify and fight antisemitism.
How To Succeed in Business
The IAC Central Florida is connecting local teens with mentors who are teaching them the ins and outs of being an entrepreneur.
How I Got to Carnegie Hall... and What It Meant to Me!
A local 14-year-old sings at Carnegie Hall with American and Israeli peers.
Lighting the Way
A local woman walks to honor her father and raise awareness about suicide.
Let's Holla for this CHALLAH MAMA!
A Winter Park attorney, known for her baking prowess, walks to raise money for a cause that’s very personal.
Wit and Whimsy
Pandemic-inspired boredom brought this local lawyer to art, and now she uses her colorful take on Judaica to connect with her Jewish roots.
From War Zone to Warm Embrace
After October 7, Israeli families found refuge in our community, 5,000 miles away.
Mission-Critical
Local volunteers with JNF-USA lead essential mission trips to Israel.
A Real Page-Turner
This matter-of-fact math teacher at Seminole High School was once at the center of an international incident worthy of an espionage novel.
An Evening With Mandy Patinkin
Broadway legend Mandy Patinkin talks Judaism, the stage, and going viral on TikTok.
"Community Is Everything"
This Orlando rabbi’s upbringing ultimately led him to cofound an organization that supports Jewish day schools locally and beyond.
The WOW Factor
Two Winter Garden residents have joined forces to create a chavurah that’s helping to meet the needs of a growing Jewish community.
When It Comes to the Cost of Student Loans, YOU CAN'T BEAT FREE
JLife Publisher Samantha Taylor knows firsthand what JELF’s interest-free college loan programs can mean.
A Tapestry of Good Choices
Shalom Orlando recently honored six outstanding women who are making a beautiful difference in our Jewish community.