By Shelley Hubal

For several years now, the Jewish Federation of Greater Binghamton has been in partnership with local Jewish leadership and the national organization Secure Community Network. Together, we have created an active team that is focused on improving safety and security for the Jewish community here in Broome County. Through these efforts, we have provided multiple safety and security trainings, developed relationships with federal, state and local law enforcement, greatly improved our ability to share real time security related information and, whenever possible, assessed the needs of our local infrastructure and supported grant writing efforts. 
The recent terror attack at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, MI, is a reminder that the threat to Jewish communities in the United States and around the globe is very real. This violent attack also showed us that training, preparedness and vigilance can literally save lives. With this changing threat landscape, we must all do our part by being vigilant. 
If you “see something, say something” is good advice. Suspicious activity should be reported to local law enforcement as quickly as possible and, if relevant, please do follow up with the security team at your local Jewish institution. 
I have learned these last few years that security efforts are often put in place only after much careful consideration, consultation, planning and angst. There is much that goes on behind the scenes to create a culture of preparedness, and I am truly grateful for the many volunteers (too many to list here, but you know who you are) that are doing this important work here in Broome County to keep us all safe. A special thank you to Adam Weitsman and family for their continued support of the Federation security program.
To make a donation to our local security fund or to volunteer, please contact me at 607 724 2332 or director@jfgb.org