Help me — a Holocaust survivor — grow a young, vibrant, and ambitious Jewish community in the heart of the United States.

Five years ago, a small and determined group — Jews by birth, Jews by choice, Holocaust survivors like me, the next generation, and cherished allies — came together in Springfield, Missouri to build a welcoming center for Jewish life and learning. What began as a vision has become a living, growing community.

Now we have a rare opportunity to take the next step. By purchasing a permanent building, we can create a true home for worship, education, and outreach — a place where Jewish life can flourish and where our neighbors can gather, learn, and connect. This space will allow us to expand our programs and meet the needs of a community that is growing faster than we ever imagined.

My family was murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust. Because of that history, this project carries profound meaning for me. Supporting Rabbi Yossi Avichzer and helping Chabad grow here is my way of turning loss into legacy — building something hopeful and enduring in my adopted home of Springfield and across Missouri.

Together, our community — along with friends and supporters from around the world — has already raised nearly $300,000 toward our $550,000 goal. We are deeply grateful. Yet we still need $250,000 to make this dream a reality.

We must reach this goal by the end of February 2026. Without these funds, the building owner will walk away, and this once-in-a-generation opportunity will be lost.

If you believe in the future of American Judaism — in resilience, renewal, and the power of community — please consider making a contribution today. Help us create a beacon of light that will shine far beyond the Midwest.

With gratitude,

Erika Schwartz