On December 2, 2025 more than 225 supporters, volunteers, alumni, and community leaders gathered at the Distillery of Modern Art for JELF’s annual celebration, Turning Dreams into Diplomas—an evening that captured both the heart of our mission and the extraordinary momentum behind it. The night marked a milestone year for JELF. In 2024 alone, the […]
Category: General
2025 JELFie Thank You Video
Meet the students behind JELF’s mission. This JELFie video shares real stories from real borrowers whose dreams are becoming possible through JELF’s interest-free loans. Premiered at JELF’s Annual Event in Atlanta, it highlights the dignity, opportunity, and impact your support creates for nearly 500 students each year.
JELF Responds to Surging Student Demand
The organization aims to grow its donor base in a strategic expansion. By Compiled by AJT staffJuly 30, 2025, 10:52 am Jewish Educational Loan Fund is expanding its donor base to meet a surging demand from students and their families. JELF (Jewish Educational Loan Fund) is experiencing its largest year of growth in nearly 150 years, […]
JELF – Celebrating Chai Plus 100 & Counting (1999)
In 1999, under the leadership of Board Chairs Nancy Abrams and Bea Feiman, JELF celebrated its 118th year in existence by creating this special tribute video. “Celebrating Chai Plus 100 & Counting” not only tells the storied past of JELF’s two predecessor organizations, the Hebrew Orphans’ Home (HOH) and Jewish Children’s Service (JCS), but also […]
My JELF Story: Ilana L.
Meet Ilana L., a JELF alum whose story came full circle. Once a student helped by JELF’s interest-free loans, she now serves as a board member and chairs the alumni committee—paying it forward and strengthening the community that once supported her.
My JELF Story: Irina K.
As an immigrant pursuing a career in pharmacy, Irina faced both financial and academic challenges. With support from JELF, she was able to complete her education and build a meaningful career helping others—proving that access and opportunity can change everything.
My JELF Story: Mark K.
Meet Mark, whose journey to the U.S. as an immigrant came with big dreams—and financial hurdles. Thanks to JELF, he was able to pursue higher education without the burden of interest-bearing debt, turning opportunity into achievement.
My JELF Story: Harold B.
Meet Harold B., whose connection to JELF spans generations. His story reflects the lasting power of community support and how interest-free loans can change a student’s path — and a family’s future.
My JELF Story: Kathe B.
Meet Kathe B., a dedicated member of the Jewish community who has experienced the profound impact of JELF’s mission firsthand. Her journey with JELF highlights the organization’s commitment to supporting Jewish students in need.
JELF Night Out in Tampa!
On Tuesday, November 12th, JELF hosted an incredible evening at the Centre Club in Tampa, bringing together a dynamic group of community members passionate about making a difference. The event, co-hosted by the generous Michael Silver and Dori Marlin, was both uplifting and impactful. In the midst of challenging times for the Tampa Bay community, […]
Strength in Unity: A Virtual Event
In the aftermath of the tragic events on October 7, 2023, Jewish students across the country faced unprecedented challenges on their college campuses. Watch the Recording Here (09/24/2024) Our compelling virtual panel featured current JELF recipients from various universities who shared their personal experiences, the impact on their education and community life, and how they […]
Breaking the Stigma: The Value of Trade and Vocational Education
In a society where the traditional route often emphasizes four-year universities, it’s essential to recognize the alternative paths that can lead to successful careers. Technical institutes and skill-based programs offer practical and focused training tailored to specific professions, presenting a compelling option for many students. Having offered financial aid to Jewish students for these types […]
Young Professionals Night at Alon’s Bakery
On May 7, 2024, JELF hosted a memorable event at Alon’s Bakery at Phipps Plaza, gathering over 50 young professionals from around Atlanta. This special evening provided an opportunity for attendees to learn more about JELF’s mission and hear firsthand from former recipients about the life-changing impact of JELF’s support. The atmosphere at Alon’s Bakery […]
Tax-Smart Advice for Making Qualified Charitable Distributions
Are You Age 70 1/2 (or older)? Discover how you can support the Jewish Educational Loan Fund (JELF) through Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA), a tax-advantaged way to contribute to an organization that provides interest-free loans to Jewish students in need. Key Benefits of a QCD Important Details: Additional Rules: […]
529 Plan Shopping Across State Lines
When it came time for Cathy Miller to select 529 plans for her grandchildren, she drew from a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the field. As Chief Operating Officer at JELF (Jewish Educational Loan Fund) for more than 24 years, Cathy now been working with thousands of college students, during which time she has […]