CARMEL valley RETREAT 2026
January 30 – February 1, 2026 / Carmel, CA
The Power of Us: Peoplehood in Action
Project Activate’s second national gathering brought together change-makers from across the U.S., Canada, and Israel for an immersive three-day retreat in Carmel Valley, CA. Building on the momentum of our successful Charleston retreat in 2025, this weekend was designed to deepen connections, spark new initiatives, and strengthen our collective impact as an unapologetically Jewish movement.
The weekend featured a dynamic mix of programming that balanced reflection with action. Participants engaged in critical conversations including “How to Fight an Ideological War” with Shai Davidai, a moderated dialogue with Israeli participants sharing their firsthand perspectives, and “Jewish Peoplehood 4.0” with Zack Bodner during Havdalah. We explored the landscape of contemporary Jewish responses, examined strategies for sustainable impact with Adina Danzig Epelman, and connected Silicon Valley innovation thinking to Jewish peoplehood. The three-part “Power of Us Action Lab” gave participants hands-on time to collaborate, strategize, and co-create initiatives that will continue beyond the retreat.
From Kabbalat Shabbat and Shabbat dinner to trivia night (“CHTO GDE KOGDA”) and intimate connection sessions, every moment was intentionally designed to build relationships and trust. We didn’t just talk about building community — we lived it. Participants left with new partnerships, concrete action plans, and a renewed commitment to the work ahead. Charleston was just the beginning. Carmel Valley showed us what’s possible when we come together with purpose.