Rabbi Bob Kaplan: A True Bridge Builder and Peace Ambassador

Rabbi Bob Kaplan has been a driving force for intercommunity understanding in New York City for over 31 years. As the founder of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York’s Center for Shared Society, he has dedicated his career to fostering leadership, cultural humility, and coalition-building ¹. Through his initiatives, Bob has united leaders from various sectors to tackle critical citywide issues such as healthcare disparities and gun violence.

A Champion of Bridge-Building

With a career spanning 50 years, Rabbi Kaplan has become one of the foremost leaders in intergroup relations and a highly respected voice for the Jewish community. He has advised UJA-Federation NY, various foundations, and the NYC Mayor’s Office on strategies to unite diverse communities. His efforts have trained thousands of professionals, advanced best practices in the field, and helped direct millions of dollars to Jewish nonprofits addressing antisemitism and hate.

Empowering Youth and Building Coalitions

Rabbi Kaplan launched YouthBridge-NY, a unique youth empowerment fellowship focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), over two decades ago ¹. The program has expanded, producing nearly 1,000 alumni and spawning additional initiatives like YouthBridge-Brooklyn and YouthBridge-Munich. He has also established over 25 coalitions tackling various societal issues, including:

Northern Queens Health Coalition: Enhanced healthcare access by securing translators in hospitals
Brooklyn Black Pastor-Rabbi Dialogue Group: Fosters interfaith understanding and collaboration
We Are All Brooklyn Fellowship Against Hate: Educates leaders to combat antisemitism and hate
Bridges-NY Fellowship: Trains aspiring leaders in essential governance and community skills

A Trusted Advisor and Mediator

Rabbi Kaplan serves as a Commissioner on the NYC Commission on Human Rights and contributes to multiple boards that enhance civic, health, and educational initiatives across the city ¹. His consulting expertise extends internationally, assisting governments and organizations in inter-ethnic relations and conflict resolution. U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres, a leading pro-Israel advocate in Congress, values Bob’s counsel and has traveled to Israel with him and JCRC-NY on multiple occasions.

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In conclusion, Rabbi Bob Kaplan is a true bridge builder and peace advocate, dedicating his life to fostering understanding and unity among diverse communities in New York City. His tireless efforts have made a lasting impact, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders.

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