Jewish Genealogical Society of Southwest Florida

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About the Jewish Genealogical Society of Southwest Florida

The Jewish Genealogical Society of Southwest Florida is a non-profit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving and disseminating genealogical information, techniques and research tools among people interested in Jewish genealogy and family history. While the majority of members reside in the greater Sarasota-Manatee area, JGSSWF has members located around the country.

Founded in 1996, JGSSWF has more than 50 members. JGSSWF encourages all members to volunteer and participate in its operation. Anyone interested in Jewish genealogy, regardless of their religion, is welcome to become a member.

JGSSWF is a member of the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies (IAJGS), connecting its members with over 90 Jewish genealogical societies worldwide. Its members possess a broad-range of genealogical skills and knowledge, and are willing to share their knowledge with beginning and experienced researchers.

The purpose of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Southwest Florida is to assist individuals in learning about Jewish genealogy and methods for researching and documenting one’s family history. JGSSWF’s activities include educating members, documenting surnames and places, and presenting programs of interest to Jewish genealogical researchers.

Past Highlights
Used Book Sale, fundraiser
Shtetl Kettle recipe book of members’ family recipes
Library on Wheels over 100 reference books & maps
Five Scrapbooks with the history of the JGSSWF
Connecting the Generations workbook for kids
Member’s Manual
Howard Margol, IAJGS past-President two special lectures for members
Michael Brenner, noted Jewish genealogist and author
Florida Holocaust Museum bus trip to St. Petersburg
Eric Randol Schoenberg, attorney involved with The Woman in Gold

Current Venue
Aviva Senior Living's Kretzmer Center,

Prior Venues
Temple Sinai
Selby Public Library
JCC
Sarasota Herald Tribune

Objectives
The objectives of JGSSWF are to encourage Jewish family research; to educate JGSSWF members and the public about Jewish genealogy through lectures, seminars and workshops; to stimulate and provide instruction in the use of research methodology and adherence to standards of accuracy and thoroughness; and to promote preservation of, and access to, Jewish genealogical records and resources.

Meetings
Meetings are held November thru April, normally on the third Sunday of the month at 1:00 pm. Some of the meetings are held at Aviva Senior Living's Kretzmer Center, 1951 North Honore Avenue in Sarasota, and some on-line only via Zoom. The meetings provide a mix of lectures, tutorials, films and discussions, and allow attendees to assist and interact with other genealogists researching their Jewish roots.

Membership Privileges
JGSSWF membership priveleges include an e-mail subscription to the JGSSWF newsletter, Mishpochology; JGSSWF e-mail notices (genealogy advice, meeting announcements, etc.); linkage to others researching similar Jewish roots; and recommendations for assistance with translations, internet resources, area research facilities,.

Digital Presence
JGSSWF website: www.jgsswf.org
JGSSWF YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@jgsswf
JGSSWF Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/jgsswf