By Tehila Reuben, Masorti Olami and MERCAZ Olami’s Deputy Director

Masorti Olami and the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs International (FJMC International) have been collaborating on a range of initiatives for over a year, with shared goals that include: building meaningful connections between Masorti Olami’s international communities and FJMC; supporting and empowering Jewish men worldwide in alignment with our shared Masorti/Conservative values; and responding strategically and compassionately to the evolving needs of Jewish men today.

FJMC connects over 14,000 members across 200 clubs by offering programs that encourage personal growth, nurture friendships, and bring Jewish learning and culture to life. You can learn more about them at fjmc.org. Together, we are committed to creating vibrant, supportive communities around the world that empower Jewish men to lead fulfilling and purpose-driven lives. Through this work, we’ve developed a shared understanding that we are stronger together and, with our deep knowledge of community life outside of North America, we are excited to continue partnering with the FJMC International Region to advance our common vision globally.

As a result of this partnership, we were honored to be invited to participate in the FJMC biennial convention in Chicago, held July 3–6. The convention brought together over 200 members from across FJMC’s 15 regions for a weekend of learning, sharing, and deep connection.

Jerry Brodsky, Chair of FJMC’s International Region, and Executive Director Rabbi Noam Raucher, informed us that Masorti Olami would be the first ever organization recipient of the Excellence in Partnership Award. I was humbled and proud to accept this meaningful honor on behalf of Masorti Olami.

Despite flight cancellations caused by Iranian attacks, I was fortunate to make it to Chicago in time. I arrived at the convention knowing just a handful of people, but left feeling uplifted by new friendships and meaningful connections. My most powerful takeaway from the weekend is the deep sense of connection and passion that permeates the FJMC community. I was truly moved by the interest, support, and enthusiasm expressed for our work around the world. Seeing over 200 members make the journey, from near and far, to come together in shared purpose was both inspiring and energizing, and is a very impressive model to learn from.

Throughout the weekend, I had the opportunity to meet regional leaders and active members of FJMC, learning more about the organization’s structure, vision, and values. In addition to the awards ceremony, where I stood alongside remarkable and inspiring leaders, I was honored to lead a session on Masorti Olami’s global presence and projects. We explored opportunities for continued partnership and had important conversations about our shared mission. I also met with key leaders who are supporting and working with our Abayudaya communities in Uganda, and we began exploring collaborative efforts in the region.

A highlight of the convention was the installation of Bruce Tomar as the new International President, succeeding outgoing President Alan Budman. We express our deep thanks to Alan for his leadership and partnership over the past two years, and we look forward to continuing to grow our relationship with Bruce. Another exciting milestone was the renaming of the organization to FJMC International. As Bruce Tomar remarked, “This is not just a name change, it’s a recommitment. At a time when men across generations are craving connection, identity, and support, FJMC International offers a powerful and rooted space for growth. We’re not starting from scratch; we’re building on decades of impact and looking forward with clarity and intention.”

About our participation, Jerry Brodsky, Chair of the International Region of FJMC, shared: “What was simply supposed to be a representative from Masorti Olami coming to Chicago from Israel to receive the first-ever and only FJMC Excellence in Partnership Award turned out to be an amazing experience for everyone. With Israeli airspace in wartime status and commercial flights grounded, it was only at the last minute that Ms. Reuben was able to fly to the States, making her presence that much more meaningful to us American Jews. She was given the award at a plenary session; was introduced to FJMC leadership past, present, and future throughout the convention; presented about Masorti Olami's work and our collaboration with FJMC to the most influential members of the organization during a scheduled breakout session; and made an amazingly positive impression on all, both professionally and personally. The most common response from FJMC members who had the chance to speak with Ms. Reuben directly was: ‘It’s an honor to meet you and have you at our convention.’ FJMC looks forward to a long and fruitful collaboration with Masorti Olami, and Tehila Reuben was the perfect ambassador for this unique and meaningful moment. Thank you, Masorti Olami!”

I left the convention feeling energized, inspired, and hopeful about the future. We are deeply committed to strengthening our partnership with FJMC International, and we look forward to playing a central role in its continued growth and global reach. Our heartfelt thanks to Alan, Jerry, Bruce, Rabbi Noam, and all the FJMC leaders who made this experience so meaningful and possible.

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