One of the most important responsibilities in the Lehigh Valley Jewish community is ensuring the safety and security of the people and institutions. Even before the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, and the related rise in antisemitism, the community had established long-lasting partnerships with law enforcement agencies and national partners, implementing several security measures to ensure that this remains a welcoming and safe place for all.
1. Protecting the Jewish institutions
On November 7, 2019, Act 83 was signed into law, establishing the Nonprofit Security Grant Program in Pennsylvania, allowing the community to apply for security funding to protect its institutions. This legislation, passed following the horrific attack on the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, has enabled the Lehigh Valley Jewish community to secure hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding, complementing the Federal Nonprofit Security Grant. The Jewish Federation has assisted each of its local agencies, synagogues, and other houses of worship in obtaining these vital grants to keep the community safe.
2. Establishing long-lasting partnerships
The Jewish Federation has developed strong long-term relationships with law enforcement agencies at the city, municipal, state, and federal levels. It is in constant communication with them and shares relevant information that impacts the community. From local police and fire departments to state troopers and the FBI, the Federation fosters and maintains relationships to ensure community safety.
3. Investing in security
In partnership with the Jewish Federations of North America LiveSecure grant and Secure Community Network, the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley has invested significant funds to hire a full-time regional security advisor. The advisor is responsible for drafting emergency preparedness plans for each agency and synagogue, conducting security assessments, training staff and volunteers, and leading security initiatives. When incidents occur, the advisor coordinates security responses with facilities and communicates with law enforcement. The advisor also guides organizations in filing security grant applications and helps them plan for improved security operations. This service is provided as part of the Jewish Federation’s commitment to the community at no additional cost to any institution.
4. Engaging with elected officials
The community regularly communicates with elected officials, regardless of party affiliation. The Jewish Federation meets with them frequently and works with their staffs to ensure that they understand the community’s needs. From mayors to state and federal officials, the Federation invests significant time in maintaining strong relationships.
5. Sharing resources and best practices
The Jewish Federation meets every four to six weeks with the security committee of each institution in the community as well as with private security contractors to discuss concerns, share best practices, and learn from one another and from field experts. These meetings create an open channel of communication, which is essential for responding to emergencies.
By Aaron Gorodzinsky. Aaron Gorodzinsky is the director of development for the Jewish Federation.