The Annual Campaign Kickoff Event
HINENI
HINENI is the Milwaukee Jewish Federation’s annual campaign kickoff that brings our community together in pride and purpose.
Overview
HINENI is a powerful gathering that calls our community to stand up, stand together, and proudly declare: Here I am.
Rooted in one of the most meaningful words in our tradition, Hineni (הנני) is more than a theme. It is a response. A promise. A commitment to show up for one another and for the Jewish future we are building together.
Each year, HINENI brings our community together in celebration of Jewish pride, resilience, and responsibility. We lift our voices in unity. And we launch our Annual Campaign with clarity of purpose and collective strength.
HINENI reminds us that Jewish community does not happen by accident. It thrives because we choose it. Because we invest in it. Because we answer the call.
Details
What is HINENI?
HINENI is the Milwaukee Jewish Federation’s annual Campaign Kickoff and a celebration of Jewish community, pride, and purpose. Inspired by the Hebrew word meaning “Here I am,” HINENI is our collective call to show up for one another and for the Jewish future. It is an event that brings our community together to launch the Annual Campaign, share powerful stories of impact, and recommit to building a strong and vibrant Jewish Milwaukee.
Who should attend?
HINENI is for anyone who cares about Jewish life in Milwaukee and beyond. Longtime supporters, new donors, young leaders, families, community partners, and those exploring their connection to Federation are all welcome. If you believe in Jewish joy, security, Israel, and a thriving future for the next generation, this event is for you.
What can I expect?
You can expect an inspiring and high energy event filled with meaningful storytelling, dynamic speakers, and community connection. You will hear how Federation responds in moments of crisis and invests in Jewish life every day. Most importantly, you will leave feeling proud, connected, and empowered to say Hineni, Here I am, for our people and our future.
HINENI 2026
Information about HINENI 2026 will be posted as it becomes available. Be sure to check back for event details, special guests, and ways to get involved.
Connect
Julie Schack serves as Chief Development Officer at Milwaukee Jewish Federation, where she plays a key role in advancing the organization’s mission to strengthen and sustain Jewish life. In this position, Julie leads the Federation’s development efforts, helping to grow philanthropic support that fuels programs and services across Jewish Milwaukee.
At the Federation, Julie partners closely with colleagues, lay leaders, and donors to strengthen the annual campaign, cultivate meaningful relationships, and build a culture of generosity rooted in shared values. With more than 25 years of experience in advertising, marketing, and sales leadership, she brings a strategic and relationship-driven approach to philanthropy—often described as “sales with a soul.” Prior to joining the Federation, Julie held senior leadership roles within the Jewish community, including Director of Women’s Philanthropy and Affinities at the San Antonio Jewish Federation and Executive Director of Hillel Milwaukee, where she helped rebuild and reimagine Jewish life on campus and led award-winning fundraising initiatives.
Outside of work, Julie enjoys staying connected to the Milwaukee community she proudly calls home, as well as spending time with family and friends.
Hineni means I am here to do the hard work, carry responsibility and make sure Jewish Milwaukee thrives for generations to come.
Mara Kleiman Milwaukee Jewish Day School
