I was five when my family left the former Soviet Union for America. In our cramped one-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn, safe from the regime that outlawed learning Hebrew and engaging in Jewish traditions, I remember how joyful we were to finally be Jewish without fear of persecution. We just had no idea how.

Slowly, we learned. First, at the UJA-supported Jewish camps and community centers that welcomed us, like JCH and Kings Bay. Later came college Hillel and Birthright trips — both also supported by UJA — where I finally understood what it meant to not just be Jewish, but to do Jewish.

Now, as the director of UJA-Federation of New York’s Lawyers Division, I spend my time telling UJA’s story and advancing its powerful and wide-ranging work.

But nothing speaks to me like our dedication to fostering strong, proud, joyful Jewish life — especially in the wake of October 7, when disconnected Jews are hungering for doorways into vibrant and meaningful Jewish connection. UJA is opening those doors.

We’re investing in Jewish day school affordability, Jewish summer camps, communal spaces where Jewish life thrives, Israel trips, and more.

Today, my family goes to a synagogue kept safe by UJA’s Community Security Initiative. My kids go to a day camp that’s part of UJA’s Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds. UJA helped me find my way into Jewish life.

And with your generous support, together, we can help others find theirs.

Lena Katsnelson is Director of UJA’s Lawyers Division.

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