| Shlichim in America: Building a More Connected Global Jewish Community A reflection from Miri Bernovsky Tibon, Federation's outgoing shlicha
Before many shlichim (Israeli emissaries) begin their jobs in the United States, we feel excited about the opportunity to spend time abroad and teach Americans about Israel, but also anxious about leaving behind our homes, our families, and our communities. But after three years at Agudas Achim, I also have a home and a community here in America. As I prepare to return to Israel at the end of the summer, the connections I made in Greater Washington will be coming with me, strengthening the bonds that tie Israel and the United States together.
Read Miri’s reflection about her time in Greater Washington »
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| | Wisdom & Reflections for a Very Different New Year
Join Federation and the Washington Board of Rabbis on this road to Rosh Hashanah for Wisdom & Reflection, 29 days of learning guided by the diversity, warmth, and wisdom from rabbis throughout DC, MD, and Northern VA. While we may not be gathering in person to sound the shofar (ram’s horn) each day, we can still celebrate this meaningful transition to a New Year.
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VIRTUAL EVENTS: CONNECT WITH PURPOSE
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| Scavenger Hunt Havdalah
Congregation Etz Hayim
Bid Shabbat goodbye for the week…and be ready for some scavenger hunt fun! Non-members are invited to contact office@etzhayim.net for connection info.
» Saturday, August 29 | 9:00 PM - 9:30 PM
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| The Blast
Adas Israel Congregation, Sixth & i, and Temple Sinai
This year, we will observe the Yamim Noraim (Days of Awe) differently than we ever have before. Though we find ourselves unable to safely gather to usher in 5781, join us for “The Blast,” an opportunity for the Greater Washington Jewish community to welcome Rosh Hashanah and affirm our connectedness as a community with city-wide shofar blasts.
» Friday, September 18 | 5:00 PM
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VOLUNTEER & BE A FORCE FOR GOOD!
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Random Acts of Kindness
Mental Health Foundation
One thing that we have seen all over the world is that kindness is prevailing in uncertain times. People are coming together to sing on balconies in Italy, setting up groups to offer support to the elderly or vulnerable, and more. Get involved with random acts of kindness. The added benefit of helping others is that it is good for our own mental health and wellbeing. Explore the list of ideas, take action, and then share the kindness on social media.
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Friendly Callers
Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland
Volunteers are needed to call clients of Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland to check on their safety, health, and well-being and help to reduce loneliness. You might be the only person these clients speak with during this time of social distancing. Volunteers will be given 5-10 clients to call and we ask that you speak with them twice a week. Meals on Wheels enables people to live independently in their homes by providing food and other needed services. Teens under 18 can participate with a parent. Background check for 18+.
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A Mitzvah a Day (at Home)
PJ Library®
Enjoy a month of mitzvot with your family. Just print this checklist and try a new activity each day. There are 30 activities total—that’s one for each day of the month—to inspire your family to do a mitzvah each day.
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STRENGTHENING OUR JEWISH COMMUNITY FOR A VIBRANT FUTURE
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Ever since the coronavirus pandemic first struck Greater Washington, Federation has worked swiftly to respond to the growing needs. Thanks to the generosity of donors to Federation's Annual Campaign, we have been able to support the most vulnerable members of our Jewish Greater Washington community with vital resources and sustain our vital institutions during this time of crisis. Though we cannot know what the future will bring, we remain committed to meeting the pressing needs of our community during times of calm and crisis. Every gift to Federation’s 2020 Annual Campaign will help see us through this pandemic and into a vibrant Jewish future.
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| | 703-J-CARING: The Jewish Community Support Line
When you feel overwhelmed or uncertain about your options, Federation, JSSA, and the 703-J-CARING Support Line Partner Network of human service organizations are here for you. With one call to 703-J-CARING (703-522-7464), you will reach a professional case manager ready to connect you with resources and services that are right for you. Serving residents of DC, MD, and Northern VA, 703-J-CARING is accessible Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM and all calls are confidential.
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