Shep Englander and Bruce Udell | Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

One year ago, Shep Englander, was recruited to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of The Jewish Federationof Sarasota-Manatee. He moved to Sarasota from the Cincinnati, where he’d served as the CEO of their Jewish Federation for the past 16 Years. He’s enjoying the challenge and opportunity of leading this unique non-profit, which serves the full spectrum of the diverse and growing Jewish community in the Sarasota-Bradenton region. On top of that—he is leading the redevelopment of the community campus to upgrade all services and programs, including education, Jewish culture, and social programs.

He is working closely with Board President, Bruce Udell, who has held many leadership positions at the Federation and at other area non-profits for over 15 years. It couldn’t be a better time for the two to be working together. “Right now, the Jewish community is growing quickly,” Udell said. A recent study from Brandeis University showed that the Sarasota-Manatee area has one of the fastest growing Jewish communities in the country.

“A lot aren’t affiliated with synagogues but they’re looking for ways to connect with other Jews.” The JFED began in the late 1950s, with a commitment to coordinating community activities locally and providing resources, protection, and shelter to Jews around the world. “We are just crushed with people who just moved here,” Englander said. “So many people are excited to be involved with our activities.” 

Right now, plans are underway for a holocaust memorial, security and training center, as well as a conference and event center. Englander says they’re already consulting with the Sarasota and Manatee public school systems regarding curriculum and training for teachers in holocaust education and field trips. The security and training center will host security training for first responders, non-profit organizations, board retreats, and leadership training. The event center will seat over 500 in the banquet hall, and will host a variety of events like weddings, bat mitzvahs and bar mitzvahs. 

With all the growth and exciting changes ahead, Udell and Englander remain focused on JFED’s goals—to preserve heritage, provide help to those in need, and protect jews locally and afar. It’s an honor they don’t take lightly. “This job is challenging, but rewarding at the same time,” Udell said. “I love what we do for the community.”

580 McIntosh Road

941.371.4546 • info@jfedsrq.org • www.jfedsrq.org