Getting to Know Barry S. Berg: Board Chair of Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County

We are proud to welcome Barry S. Berg, known for his leadership, philanthropy, and community service, as the new Board Chair of Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County.

Barry recently retired from his 30-year career in wealth management, he is now dedicating more time to causes he holds closest to his heart. His commitment to the Palm Beaches’ Jewish community began more than 40 years ago, soon after moving here with his beloved wife Margie. In 1984, Barry received Federation’s Robert S. & Ceil N. Levy Young Leadership Award. Since then, Barry has been one of Federation’s most dedicated, vital leaders. His 15 visits to Israel with Federation are a meaningful testament to his connection and dedication to the Jewish homeland.

Read below to get to learn more about Barry and his longstanding commitment to Jewish Palm Beach, Israel and our global Jewish family.

How are you involved in the community beyond Federation?

I was the founding chairman of Leadership Palm Beach County and a founding board member of the Children’s Services Council. I also served as chair of the ADL, and today I hold a position on the ADL National Commission. I truly believe in the power of unity in the fight against antisemitism and for the survival of the Jewish people.

Why are you so proud to be a part of Federation?

This is the strongest group of staff and lay leaders we have ever had in the history of Federation, and the future is in good hands. I am extremely proud of the senior leadership team and staff of our Federation, led by President & CEO Michael Hoffman. Federation professionals are all very capable and dedicated to our mission. Additionally, Jewish philanthropy in our community has flourished remarkably. The generosity of thousands of donors in Jewish Palm Beach has enabled us to address the ever-growing needs of our community here and around the world. In the face of present-day challenges, we must respond—there is simply no alternative.

Describe your unwavering commitment to Israel and our global Jewish community.

The world is changing, but not antisemitism; antizionism persists as a rejection of the rights of the Jewish people. Federation supports our community, including the people of Israel, as well as Jews living in 70 countries around the world. On October 7, Israel’s world and that of the global Jewish community were turned upside down. Israel is the country of the Jewish people, and we will not let anyone take it away from us. We may have different views on the politics of Israel and the politics here in the U.S., but these differences are immaterial. We can all agree that we are in a fight for the survival of the Jewish people. We all want a peaceful and productive world for our children and grandchildren.

What is one thing you are really excited about as Board Chair?

I am excited to begin implementing Federation’s new strategic plan. For the past 16 months, national consultants have conducted extensive research and conversations with a slew of different audiences and stakeholders, to best understand how to strengthen Federation as our community’s “City Hall.” Thanks to their work and the leadership of our Strategic Planning task force, our new plan provides a roadmap to enhance Federation’s impact on Jewish Palm Beach and the global in Jewish communities around the world. Click here to learn more about the eight key directions Federation will focus on over the coming years.

Six Things to Know About Barry:

1. Best Advice Received: If you support your community, your community will support you.
2. Inspiration: I draw inspiration from my father, Joseph Berg, whose dedication to hard work and family values shaped my life.
3. First Job: At age 12, I began a newspaper delivery route, which instilled values of hard work and customer service.
4. What Puts a Smile on Barry’s Face: My four grandchildren, who I am proud to say all live here in Palm Beach County.
5. Guilty Pleasure: Dark chocolate.
6. Secret to Success: Perseverance is one of my guiding principles.