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  • More
    • HOME
    • NEWSLETTERS
    • COLLABORATING GROUPS
    • RESOURCES
      • Volunteer and Get Help
      • Voting Information
      • Norm's List
    • MEMBERS SPEAK OUT
    • ALERTS & EVENTS
    • CONTACT AND JOIN
  • HOME
  • NEWSLETTERS
  • COLLABORATING GROUPS
  • RESOURCES
    • Volunteer and Get Help
    • Voting Information
    • Norm's List
  • MEMBERS SPEAK OUT
  • ALERTS & EVENTS
  • CONTACT AND JOIN

Welcome to the Suncoast Jewish Alliance

Suncoast Jewish Alliance for a Better Future

MISSION

The Suncoast Jewish Alliance is an organization that is motivated by our shared Jewish values. Our values embrace tzedek (the pursuit of justice), tikkun olam (repairing the world) and derekh eretz (treating all people with dignity and respect).

PRINCIPLES

We engage with community individuals and organizations.


We stand steadfastly with the Jewish State of Israel and for sustainable peace in the Middle East.


We collaborate with individuals and groups who share  our values regardless of their religious, political, ethnic, gender or racial identification.


We provide educational programs and take actions on critical issues of social justice.


We speak out and take action regarding the negative impact antisemitism, hatred, and bigotry have on our society.


We oppose efforts by public officials and others who seek autocratic power and undermine our democracy.


We are nonpartisan but we will speak out on public policy issues that we support or oppose.

 

Volunteer With Us

We are all volunteers.  Whether it's event planning, hospitality, writing, rallying or administrative tasks, your support can help us achieve our goals. 

Meet Our Board and Committee Chairs

President: Norman Olshansky

Vice President: Julie Friedman

Vice President: Julie Friedman

Vice President: Julie Friedman

Vice President: Julie Friedman

Vice President: Julie Friedman

Treasurer: Lisa Barzel

Vice President: Julie Friedman

Treasurer: Lisa Barzel

Secretary: Wendy Wicks

Member At Large: David Kaufman

Treasurer: Lisa Barzel

Programming: Uzi Baram

Member At Large: David Kaufman

Member At Large: David Kaufman

Member At Large: David Kaufman

Member At Large: David Kaufman

Member At Large: David Kaufman

Member At Large: Robin Taub Williams

Member At Large: Robin Taub Williams

Member At Large: Robin Taub Williams

Nominations Chair: Tess Koncick

Member At Large: Robin Taub Williams

Member At Large: Robin Taub Williams

Marketing & Communications

Member At Large: Robin Taub Williams

Marketing & Communications

YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SUNCOAST JEWISH ALLIANCE

Why do we need another Jewish organization in Sarasota-Manatee?

There are many excellent Jewish organizations and synagogues in our area.  Most have committees for social action or community relations. However, most of their good work is in the area of social service, helping food banks, and doing mitzvah projects. The Alliance is focused on public policy advocacy and being more vocal in the community.

Doesn't the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee do that too?

The Jewish Federation does great work and we partner with it on projects within our mission. The Jewish Federation is foremost a fundraising organization; for social action and public advocacy they are constrained by varying pressures from donors with partisan interests. The Jewish Federation is successful with behind-the-scenes advocacy. The Alliance outspokenly stands up against antisemitic and anti-Zionist behaviors, hate across all entities, censoring and other policies that negatively affect Jews and other disadvantaged communities. We attend community meetings, submit letters to the editor, collaborate with like-minded organizations, speak out and demonstrate in the streets when needed.

How do you differ from the local Democratic Jewish Caucus & the Republican Jewish Coalition?

We are non-partisan. We do not endorse candidates but will speak out against any public official if they engage in antisemitism or other positions contrary to Jewish values and ethics. Our membership includes Republicans, Democrats, and people who belong to other and no political parties. When organizations identify themselves based on party affiliation they tend to increase the polarization of society.

How are decisions made by the Suncoast Jewish Alliance?

Our mission and principles call for us to act on issues based on Jewish values and ethics.  Our bylaws guide our governance and decision making. With input from our members, the Alliance Board decides what we support or oppose.

How much is membership and how do you use the funds?

Annual membership per person is only $18 per person.  Dues and donations maintain our State and Federal nonprofit designation, strengthen our infrastructure, expand our social media tools, increase our outreach and recruitment efforts, and allow us to augment our programming.  With no paid staff, we rely on actively engaged volunteers. 


We would welcome your membership and participation! 

Connect With Us: SUNCOASTJEWISHALLIANCE.ORG

Copyright © 2025 Suncoast Jewish Alliance. All Rights Reserved.


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