WJSN officer smiling at a woman

WISCONSIN JEWISH SECURITY NETWORK

This highly specialized security agency operates on six core pillars of safety and security that come together to create proven, trusted, comprehensive, customized security programs for every site we serve.

Overview

Dedicated to keeping Jewish communities secure, the Wisconsin Jewish Security Network (WJSN) delivers training, partnerships, intelligence, and expert security personnel across Wisconsin.

Security Resources

Expanded tools and data that strengthen community safety through grant support, funding guidance, and ongoing monitoring of antisemitic activity statewide.

Each year MJF and WJSN assists Jewish organizations across the state in applying for federal security grants. Since 2018, we have helped 46 institutions throughout Wisconsin secure $8,359,017 in funding. This influx of funding complements these organizations’ reliance on philanthropic dollars. 

Synagogues throughout the state are eligible to receive up to $5,000 in funding. Applications for 2026-27 will open in the summer of 2026.

The Jewish Community Relations Council of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation conducts an annual audit of antisemitic incidents across Wisconsin. Our annual audit includes events that occur in Wisconsin, are committed by individuals residing in Wisconsin, or are directed towards Wisconsin residents or institutions.

Wisconsin Jewish Security Network

request security

Complete this form to have a WJSN security presence at your next event.

CONNECT

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Ari Friedman

Ari Friedman is the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Jewish Security Network (WJSN), leading security strategy and operations for more than 60 Jewish organizations statewide, including schools, synagogues, and community centers. With 18 years of experience in community safety, crisis management, and infrastructure protection, he strengthens preparedness and resilience through close partnerships with law enforcement, government, and community leadership.  

Previously, Ari served as Security Director for the 2015 JCC Maccabi Games, coordinating security for 1,000 international athletes across 17 venues. He holds certifications in Advanced Critical Infrastructure Protection, Critical Asset Risk Management, Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience,  Fusion Liaison Officer, Executive Protection, FEMA emergency management, and First Responder CPR/First Aid. Through WJSN, Ari is committed to sustaining a strong culture of safety and preparedness statewide. 

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  • Josh Martinson
  • Deputy Director of Security Operations
  • Email | Phone
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Josh Martinson

  • Deputy Director of Security Operations
  • Email | Phone
Joshua Martinson serves as the Deputy Director of Security Operations, at Wisconsin Jewish Security Network, a partner of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation. Josh plays a key role in advancing the organizations mission to provide security, strengthening and sustaining Jewish Life in Milwaukee and the State of Wisconsin.
At the Wisconsin Jewish Security Network, Josh partners, works with security professionals and with local, county, state and federal Law Enforcement Agencies to ensure that the Jewish community in Wisconsin is safe from threats.
Outside of work Josh enjoys camping with his wife and 2 French bulldogs, hunting, kayaking, as well as coaching and playing soccer.
  • Alex Cohen Poylov
  • Security Program Manager
  • Email | Phone
  • Scot Henry
  • IT and Cybersecurity Manager
  • Email | Phone

Related Programs

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Nonprofit Security Grant Program

Each year MJF and WJSN assists Jewish organizations across the state in applying for federal security grants. Learn more.

View Program
WJSN officer in front of Congregation Beth Jehudah

Synagogue Security Grant Program

Synagogues throughout the state are eligible to receive up to $5,000 in funding. Learn how to apply.

View Program