
Austin Community Rocks at IGNITE!
From left to right: Marty Davis, Robin Davis, Lainie Polland, Jonathan Polland. Credit: Lindsay Thorne Photography
By Margaret Praderas
On Sunday, April 7, 2024, more than 1,000 community members gathered for an evening of celebration and commemoration at Shalom Austin’s IGNITE! event.
IGNITE! is aimed at recognizing community leaders, highlighting the ways Shalom Austin provides for the community and rallying continued support to help build a thriving, vibrant Jewish community.
Stories of resilience, tradition and inclusivity were shared that highlight how Shalom Austin impacts the entire community, thanks to the generosity of many loyal supporters.
Community leaders Frances Meltzer and Sandy Dochen were honored for their leadership and dedication to Shalom Austin.
IGNITE! Co-Chairs Robin & Marty Davis and Lainie & Jonathan Polland executed a phenomenal event. Guests enjoyed the Dell JCC’s new and renovated spaces, which were transformed beautifully for the event. This magical evening also showcased a variety of food and beverage offerings from local vendors.
The evening concluded with a private performance by Matisyahu, who shared a message of peace and love.
Philanthropy Co-Chair Jennifer Greenblum said, “Shalom Austin’s strength comes from the strength of its people – it comes from you! It comes from all of us.”
To date, the Annual Campaign has raised 73% toward its $3.4 million goal.
To make a contribution to support Shalom Austin’s important work and to inspire Jewish journeys in meaningful and transformative ways, visit shalomaustin.org/donate.
Latest Posts

Challenges and Resilience: Building Up and Protecting Jewish Communities. Austin Community Leaders Travel to Germany and Israel for Leadership Mission
L-R: Jennifer Failla, Shana Creeger, Frances Meltzer at the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation. Courtesy: Shana Creeger “My most recent mission trip to Berlin and Israel left me with such pride and hope for all the hard work being done to build and protect our...

Remembering Rabbi Monty Eliasov
JRabbi Monty Eliasov z”l. Courtesy: Barbara Taft By Abraham Davidson Rabbi Arnold Montgomery Eliasov ( z”l), affectionately known as “Rabbi Monty,” passed away peacefully on Shabbat, July 20, 2024, after a sudden illness. In his final hours, he was surrounded by...

Local Jewish Summer Camp Gives a Big Texas Welcome to Israeli Campers
Campers2gether campers creating a bunk tallit for Shabbat t’filah blessings. Courtesy: URJ Greene Family Camp By Allison Teegardin In July, 26 Israeli teenagers who were displaced when their community Kibbutz Zikim was attacked on October 7, were welcomed to URJ...




HEALTH & WELLNESS
Fitness
Swimming
Tennis & Pickleball
More Sports
EDUCATION
Jewish Culture & Education
Early Childhood Program Preschool
After School & Childcare
Camps
ARTS & CULTURE
Literary Arts
Visual Arts
Theatre & Film
Dance
COUNSELING & SUPPORT
Jewish Family Service
Counseling & Groups
Case Management
References & Resources
Copyright Shalom Austin 2023. Privacy Policy.