Noah Presley :
In a powerful acknowledgment of a career dedicated to unity, advocacy, and interfaith dialogue, Rabbi Bob Kaplan was recently recognized for his decades of service fostering cooperation among New York’s diverse communities. As the Senior Advisor and founding Executive Director of The Center for Shared Society at the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York (JCRC-NY), Rabbi Kaplan has become a vital figure in the city’s civic and faith-based efforts to bridge social divides and promote inclusivity.
For years, Rabbi Kaplan has worked at the intersection of community leadership, public service, and education. His role on the NYC Commission on Human Rights and as Co-Chair of the Governor’s Task Force on Bias and Hate places him at the forefront of New York State’s response to discrimination, intolerance, and intergroup tensions. His efforts have consistently centered on building understanding among communities facing challenges related to race, religion, culture, and identity.
Through initiatives like YouthBridge-NY, which empowers young people from diverse backgrounds to lead in dialogue and community action, Rabbi Kaplan has left a lasting impression on future generations. His programs emphasize leadership development rooted in mutual respect and cultural awareness—core values of the shared society model he champions.
Over the years, Rabbi Kaplan’s work has extended beyond city and state borders. He has consulted for international organizations on issues of diversity, led conflict prevention initiatives, and served as a guiding voice in dialogues around coexistence and social cohesion. His academic contributions include teaching Jewish Studies at The City College of New York, where he helped students navigate complex intersections of faith, culture, and civic responsibility.
Colleagues and community leaders point to his unique ability to bring disparate voices to the same table. A certified mediator and former grief counselor, Rabbi Kaplan’s approach has always been one of empathy, active listening, and sustained engagement. He believes that meaningful social change starts with relationships, and he has built a career rooted in that philosophy.
While no single accolade can fully capture the breadth of his contributions, the recent recognition underscores the vital importance of leaders who prioritize dialogue over division. At a time when communities across the country face heightened polarization and increased incidents of hate, Rabbi Kaplan’s work stands as a beacon of what is possible when commitment meets compassion.
His presence on various interfaith and civic boards, and his ongoing influence within both secular and faith communities, continues to shape a more inclusive New York. The legacy of Rabbi Bob Kaplan is not merely one of service—it is a living reminder that society thrives when we invest in understanding, bridge-building, and the belief that all communities have a shared stake in one another’s well-being.
