May 29, 2026
You Belong Here.
You belong here. It is a statement of our values, and we strive to live it every day at Jewish Long Beach.
This Shabbat, I find myself holding a deep sense of belonging. A carryover from yesterday’s Women’s Philanthropy Arlene Solomon Visions campaign dinner.
The evening was a reminder that community does not simply happen. It is built. Sustained. Strengthened over time by people who care enough to show up. Those who say Hineni. Often quietly. Often without recognition. Always with a commitment to something larger than themselves.
Parshat Naso speaks to this kind of leadership. It tells the story of a people learning to carry responsibility together. Not only through formal leadership, but through shared obligation. Each person had a role. Each family carried something. The community moved forward because people stepped forward.
There is something deeply Jewish in that idea.
Leadership is not only about vision. It is also about guardianship. Protecting the values, traditions, and culture entrusted to us. We inherit a community shaped by those who came before us. We become responsible for what we pass on to those who come after. L’dor v’dor, from generation to generation.
That spirit was deeply present last night at Visions.
I am grateful to the many leaders, volunteers, and supporters who made the evening possible. Thank you to Sheryl Stewart, Chair of Women’s Philanthropy, and the Visions Committee for their leadership, dedication, and care in helping bring the evening to our community.
We were especially honored to celebrate Barbara Shoag as our 2026 Woman of Vision and Anna Salusky as our 2026 Woman of Impact. Their leadership reflects generosity, steadiness, and deep commitment to Jewish Long Beach. They remind us that tzedakah is about what we help make possible. Connection. Belonging. Jewish life that continues to grow, endure, and thrive. Please join me in celebrating with them and wishing them mazel tov when you see them around the Alpert JCC.
We were also honored to welcome Julie Platt, immediate past chair of Jewish Federations of North America, as our keynote speaker. Her wisdom and leadership reminded us that Jewish community is not built alone. As the Talmud teaches, Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh (All of Israel are responsible for one another). Julie reflected on this teaching as more than responsibility alone. A reminder that we are intertwined with one another. Responsible for one another. Called to care for generations yet to come.
At a moment when many people are searching for belonging, I remain hopeful because of this community. Because this community says Hineni. Because we are a community of people willing to lead. To care. To carry forward Jewish peoplehood.
Wishing you rest, reflection, and moments of connection this Shabbat.
Shabbat Shalom,
Erik Ludwig, PhD
Chief Executive Officer