The Jewish Federation of British Columbia (JFBC) is the umbrella organization that connects, supports, and strengthens Jewish life across the province. 

We work with communities, partner agencies, governments, and national and international organizations to ensure Jewish life can thrive wherever it exists in BC. This includes supporting programs, strengthening leadership, coordinating advocacy, and helping communities stay connected and secure. 

The new name reflects the work already happening across British Columbia, not just in Greater Vancouver. 

Since 1928, Federation’s name has evolved as our scope and responsibilities expanded. Each change reflected growth in Jewish life and the need for stronger coordination and leadership. This continues that same pattern. 

Jewish communities across the province are growing and seeking connection, advocacy, and support. The new name aligns our identity with our responsibility to serve communities wherever they are. 

This is not a break from the past. It is a continuation of Federation’s long history of adapting as Jewish life grows and changes. 

Several important shifts have come together. 

Jewish communities outside Greater Vancouver are growing, while also facing geographic distance, limited infrastructure, and increasing needs for connection and support. 

Demand for advocacy and security has also increased, particularly following October 7. Governments and partners are increasingly looking to Federation as a provincial voice. 

This moment clarified and accelerated a role Federation was already playing. 

No. The name change reflects work that has been developing over several years. Federation has already been building relationships, supporting communities, and coordinating efforts across the province. 

Visual branding will roll out gradually, but the substance of this work is already in place and continuing to grow. Some legal and operational updates have already occurred, while implementation will continue over time. 

Being a provincial federation means supporting Jewish life across British Columbia while respecting the independence of each community. 

Federation shares resources, builds capacity, connects communities, and provides advocacy and coordination where needed. 

Communities remain autonomous, with Federation acting as a connector, advocate, and support where it adds value. 

Greater Vancouver remains Federation’s largest community and historic foundation. There are no changes to funding, agency relationships, or community investments. 

Provincial work is additive, not redistributive, and allows Federation to extend support across the province while maintaining its commitments locally. 

No. Core funding commitments remain in place, and support for local agencies continues as before. Vancouver campaign dollars are not being redirected away from local agencies. 

Provincial work is supported through external funding sources such as foundations, government partnerships, and new funding opportunities. This approach ensures that growth across the province does not come at the expense of existing communities. 

It means broader access to Jewish life, no matter where you live in BC. 

This includes more opportunities to participate in programs, connect with others, and access advocacy and security support. 

It also means stronger connections across communities and more consistent support throughout the province. 

A provincial federation strengthens our collective Jewish responsibility, both locally and globally. It improves our ability to respond to emergencies, engage in advocacy, and partner with national and international Jewish organizations in support of Israel. 

Federation engages, at varying levels, with nearly 30 communities across British Columbia. 

Community Connectors work in 12 regions with limited or emerging Jewish infrastructure. They bring people together, create opportunities to engage in Jewish life, support local leadership, and connect communities to programs and resources across the province. 

Their work helps build stronger, more connected communities over time. 

A provincial approach allows Federation to coordinate more effectively and represent the Jewish community with a stronger, unified voice. 

It strengthens relationships with government, improves access to resources, and enhances our ability to respond to antisemitism and security concerns across the province. 

This ensures that communities, regardless of size or location, are better supported and represented. 

The Jewish Federation of Victoria and Vancouver Island remains an independent organization. 

A joint, exploratory process is underway to understand what structure will best support long-term Jewish life in Victoria. This work is being done in partnership and with community input. 

No decisions have been made, and the process is focused on sustainability and the needs of the local community. 

Success means a connected and resilient Jewish community across British Columbia. 

It includes strong local communities, increased access to programs and resources, effective advocacy, and the ability to respond to challenges together. 

It also means individuals, no matter where they live, feel supported and part of a broader Jewish community. 

Federation will continue to share updates through community communications, events, and conversations. 

There will be ongoing opportunities to learn more, ask questions, and participate as this work evolves. 

No. Federation has always adapted as community needs change. 

This is an ongoing evolution.