Building Momentum: A Transformational Weekend in Chicago
From September 7–9, 2025, Jewish women leaders gathered at JCC Chicago’s Bernard Weinger JCC for the Momentum Fellowship Summit, a three-day journey rooted in Jewish values, courage, and community.
Guided by the principles of Me. We. Mobilize., participants reflected on their own values, built meaningful connections with one another, and left equipped with the skills and confidence to take action in their communities.
Each day offered reflection, connection, and the tools to lead with clarity and impact. The Summit opened with inspiring remarks from Elizabeth Walder of the Walder Foundation, who shared her commitment to advancing leadership and strengthening Jewish life, setting the tone for a weekend of impact and connection.
The weekend’s energy was amplified by the support and participation of: Building Community Thru Conversation, Challah and Soul, Detroit Community, Hadassah National, JCC Chicago, JEWCY – Jewish Women Rising, Jewish Federation of Grand Rapids, JUF, L’chaim Center, Libenu, Minneapolis Jewish Federation, Building Identity, Connecting Communities, Strengthening Communities, NISSA, Shalva, Soul Purpose, Walder Foundation, and Young Amazing Couples.
The Momentum Fellowship Summit wasn’t just an event — it was a launching point. The journey continues through Fellowship NEXT and the Elevate Series, ensuring that the connections, skills, and inspiration from this weekend carry forward into the work these women do every day.
In the words of the Summit’s guiding text: “If not now, when?” This weekend was a resounding reminder that the time for leadership, courage, and community is now.