Embracing every Jew, one discovery at a time
To embrace and accept all Jews, regardless of background or belief, and to provide them with an individualized Jewish experience which will lead them to a better understanding of the beauty and depth of the Jewish people and Judaism.
In 1972, Rabbi Heschel and Mrs. Lea Greenberg set out on a mission: to illuminate Buffalo with the timeless wisdom and warmth of Judaism. More than fifty years later that vision has touched the lives of thousands — regardless of background or belief. Through education, hospitality, and community support, they built a home where Jewish life is embraced and celebrated.
Rabbi Greenberg is the longest-serving Rabbi in Buffalo's history, and has touched countless lives through his guidance and his wisdom. For decades his television programme Let My People Know carried Jewish knowledge and Jewish values into homes across Western New York — fostering understanding, breaking down barriers, and celebrating our heritage.
Mrs. Lea Greenberg, a Judaic scholar and a mother of eleven, has shaped the Center just as profoundly through hospitality, informal teaching, and hundreds of hours of counselling. The Greenberg home has been open around the clock for guests and for anyone thirsty for knowledge, warmth, and a kind heart.
What began with two people is now a full week of Jewish life, built on three commitments: Discovery, Experience, and Care. Adult classes from Talmud and Kabbalah to contemporary questions. Children's programmes that make tradition something you can touch. A Shul with no membership dues. Shabbat food carried to anyone who needs it — including the homebound and those in need. Seniors visited, patients comforted, travellers housed. And a media library of thousands of classes, free to anyone in the world.
The mission has never changed: to embrace and accept all Jews, regardless of background or belief, and to offer each person an individualized Jewish experience that reveals the beauty and depth of our tradition. Whatever your background, whatever your level of observance — you belong here.
Join us in honouring our past and building a vibrant future — one Shabbat, one smile, and one mitzvah at a time.
Most of it, every single week.
Adult classes from Talmud and Kabbalah to contemporary insights, plus children's programmes that bring tradition to life through interactive activities, music, and storytelling. One-on-one tutorials and Bar and Bat Mitzvah lessons too — in person, on Zoom, and live on YouTube.
Kindness in action. Hospitality and lodging for travellers and students, Taste of Shabbat gift bags carried to homes across the community — including the homebound and those in need — Smile on Seniors at assisted living centres, and hospital visits for anyone who needs a friendly face.
Shabbat and holiday dinners, celebrations, and services. Honey cake at Rosh Hashana, hand-baked shmurah matzah before Pesach, the shofar brought to those who cannot leave home, and candle-lighting magnets mailed across the community.
Total annual reach · 4,500
When I first walked into the Jewish Discovery Center, I was seeking answers. Through their classes, I found more than knowledge — I discovered wisdom rooted in tradition. I learned that these teachings don't just enrich the mind, they transform the soul.
I received a beautifully prepared gift bag of challah and matzah ball soup that transformed my Shabbat. Each week, the thoughtful delivery rekindled my observance, wrapping me in warmth and tradition.
I will never forget the first time I received a Shabbat candle lighting magnet in the mail — such a simple yet meaningful gesture. It's these little moments that make me feel truly at home here.
An internationally renowned Judaic scholar, author of several books and hundreds of scholarly and popular articles. Through his weekly TV program and thousands of hours of teaching and lecturing, Rabbi Greenberg has reached and touched the lives of tens of thousands of Jews and non-Jews.
A Judaic scholar and mother of eleven, Lea has endeared herself to so many through her informal teaching, hospitality, and hundreds of hours of counseling. The Greenberg home is literally open 24 hours a day for guests and anyone thirsty for knowledge, warmth, and a kind heart.
Known among his colleagues as a walking encyclopedia, Yehoshua's panoramic Jewish knowledge, unassuming warmth, and infinite patience have made him a beloved presence in the community. He is available for private study sessions.
Levi reaches "in" to the hearts and minds of Jews of all backgrounds and levels of observance, sharing his wisdom and warmth. His congeniality and empathy have endeared him to hundreds of people who consider him a real friend.
Arguably the Buffalo Jewish community's most dynamic educator, Brocha Leah has started and led the most popular children's and women's programs. Her profound knowledge, charisma, and rare sensitivity have helped the JDC earn its distinction as an organization with a mind, heart, and soul.
One of the most professional and effective teachers in our diverse community, Rivky has taught at virtually every Hebrew school, as well as at Kadimah and the JCC. Her acclaimed "Music with Rivky" program teaches Jewish values through music to children ages 0–6 and their mothers.
The Jewish Discovery Center at 831 Maple Rd., Williamsville, NY 14221 is home to our Shul and all of our programs — classes, lectures, seminars, workshops, and tutorials.
Finding us: The building is set back from the road, next door to Maple West Elementary School. Enter through the ECVA driveway.
Get Directions
Programs & Shul
831 Maple Rd.
Williamsville, NY 14221
Phone: 716.245.9520
Office: 716.632.0467
Email: info@jewishdiscovery.org
Rabbi Greenberg is always happy to talk — whether about a class, a question, or anything on your mind.
Many classes are offered live on Zoom.
Meeting ID: 226 849 4785
Or call in: +1 929 205 6099
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