This week, we are delighted to cast another spotlight on a Federation team member, whose hard work is essential to everything we do. Brianna Heltz joined the team earlier this year and supports our administrative data cataloging and organizations efforts.

Brianna didn’t necessarily set out to work in Jewish communal life. In her words, she “sort of stumbled into it” while searching for meaningful work in Buffalo and found exactly what she was looking for.

Before joining Buffalo Jewish Federation, Brianna worked in community-facing roles but didn’t always feel she could see the impact of her work. Today, much of her work happens behind the scenes, helping maintain the information and data that allow Federation to better understand, connect with and serve Jewish Buffalo.

“I can see and feel that the work I am doing does have an impact on community members,” she shared. “The data I work with has, and will continue to, enrich the lives of Jewish Buffalo.”

What has struck Brianna most is the strength of the community — one that is close-knit while remaining welcoming and inclusive. She sees that same spirit in the way Federation creates spaces where people can feel safe, open and connected.

“There is a hardworking and fully dedicated team of people who live and breathe Jewish Buffalo,” Brianna said. “I am incredibly grateful to be part of such a wonderful team.”

Outside of work, Brianna spends as much time outdoors as she can; gardening, camping, hiking or crocheting on the porch, often with her Golden Retriever, Riggley, by her side. After living everywhere from California to Wyoming and Florida, she kept finding herself drawn back to Buffalo.

“I always find myself missing this special city and all it has to offer. I am so glad to be back!” she said.

Brianna Heltz is the Data Entry Assistant at Buffalo Jewish Federation and joined the Federation team this past spring.