We were seated on a terrace, sipping a flight of wine and gazing out at the Sonoma Valley, which unfurled beneath us like an elaborate quilt, golden hills stitched together with perfect rows of grapevines. It was our first day of vacation, the sky was impossibly blue, and I had just lifted a flute to my lips when I overheard a man at the next table say: “I don’t know if I should look at the Federation, or just go with Fidelity.”

My husband raised his eyebrows: You wouldn’t. But I couldn’t stop myself.

I rose and faced the table of four, still holding my wine glass, and said: “Of COURSE you should open your Donor Advised Fund at the Federation,” and ticked off the reasons why. The gentleman laughed and told me I was absolutely right, and that he was involved with his Federation on the East Coast. As we chatted, we found: He and I had colleagues in common; his wife, who is from Louisville, knew my husband’s Uncle Irv and Aunt Zera; and the other couple once lived in Chicago, where we have mutual friends.

We toasted one another and parted ways.

This sense of community–of being part of an extended Jewish family that transcends geography and generations–is what I love most about working for JUF.

Another thing I love? Anticipation of what comes next.

The life-changing power of this community’s generosity never ceases to inspire me. Time and time again, JUF and our partner agencies pioneer new and better ways to extend compassion to people in need, instill a sense of purpose in people who are searching, and warmly welcome people who have felt overlooked.

Led by the unique lay-professional partnership that distinguishes this Federation, our community is trail-blazing and inventive as well as strong and resilient. Each generation of leaders brings fresh vision and passion to make Jewish Chicago more vital, innovative and inclusive.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of JUF’s Double Chai in the Chi: 36 Under 36 list, an annual roundup that spotlights young adults making a powerful impact on our community. We are celebrating this milestone with a “Where Are They Now” look-back at some of the past honorees, Generation Xers and Millennials who continue to blaze trails in many directions to make the world a better place.

As for today’s 20- and 30-somethings? They do not disappoint.

Perhaps it was those infamous participation trophies that taught Millennials and Generation Z that everyone matters, has something unique to offer, and deserves to be heard. What is certain is that this year’s 36 Under 36 honorees live their Jewish values, beginning with championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

These extraordinary young Jews are fighting antisemitism and racism and advocating for refugees, Jews of color, and people with disabilities. They are working to prevent child abuse and to promote voter registration. They are cooking meals for first responders and baking challah for the homeless; running minyans in their backyards and Shabbat services at senior residences; delivering groceries to people in need and free dental care to Holocaust survivors.

They are changing the world through their work and their example, and it’s a pleasure and a privilege to partner with them across the generations.

The Jewish future is in good hands–and I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Linda S. Haase is Senior Associate Vice President of Marketing Communications for the Jewish United Fund.