Israel Programs
Keeping Our Community Safe
In light of the attacks in Israel, we want to share with our JCC community that we remain vigilant about safety. We are taking proactive steps that are both visible and not visible to community members out of an abundance of caution. This includes increasing the number of security guards (all of whom are former law enforcement officers) and liaising closely with our partners at NYPD. In addition, our Senior Director of Security, Sean O'Connor, is in close touch with federal, state, and local law enforcement at all levels. We are thankful to our community members for complying with our safety procedures.
Your Donations Matter
Give to the JCC's David H. Sonabend Center for Israel, supporting Israeli children, families, artists, and educational experiences. Your donations allow the JCC to:
- Welcome Israeli children into our school.
- Host the Jerusalem Biennale in our gallery.
- Hold educational forums on antisemitism.
- Provide resources to teens and their families.
- Gather the community for solace and connection.
- Offer programming in Hebrew.
- Provide vital support groups for Israeli families.
From Our CEO
Friday, March 15, 2024
Dear JCC Community,
This Shabbat, Jewish communities worldwide will read the closing chapters of the Book of Exodus, which describe the completion of the building of the Mishkan. The Mishkan, a portable sanctuary created during the children of Israel's journey in the wilderness, was an enthusiastically communal DIY undertaking. As the Torah describes in great detail, artisans of all types contributed their talents: skilled community members spun yarn, embroidered linens, cut wood, and carved stones. Serving as a spiritual center for the whole community, the Mishkan led the people through uncertainty and travail. Its presence reminded them of God's presence.
I thought about the Mishkan while visiting the Hostages Square in Tel Aviv last week during my trip to Israel with a wonderful group from the JCC. Hostages Square has become the central gathering point for supporting the 134 Israeli hostages who remain in Gaza and their bereft, grieving families.
It, too, has been a communal DIY enterprise. There are tents set up where hostage families can receive visits of support. There is a kiosk with paper and markers where one can write notes of comfort and prayer. There is a portable synagogue and, dramatically, a recreation of a tunnel in Gaza that visitors can walk through. At the center sits the Shabbat Table, a beautifully set dining table with a place setting for each person being held hostage. In seeking to support a community through the unbearable pain of this crisis, Hostages Square has also become a wellspring of human creativity and lovingkindness.
Hostages Square, like the Mishkan, was built lovingly by the community. And like the Mishkan, the presence of the Holy indeed dwells there.
Thousands of miles away, we will continue to connect ourselves to the sacred work of longing and prayer. Please join me this Saturday night at 7:30 pm in the JCC lobby to sing and pray at our weekly Havdalah for the Hostages.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Joanna Samuels
Chief Executive Officer
Ways to Connect
Events are updated daily
Take 1 minute a day to support the release of hostages.
oneminaday.com was created to generate significant pressure on US elected officials to demand the release of the hostages in Gaza. The website simplifies the process of contacting your elected representative simply by entering your zip code.
Community is more important than ever.
You belong here; join the JCC today for $180/year (regularly $245). Community Members enjoy year-round benefits, including discounts on JCC programs, fitness, and neighborhood businesses, special event invitations, and priority registration.
JCC Positive Psychology Hour: Hope Amidst Conflict + Violence (Video Replay)
Caroline Kohles, JCC Senior Director of Health + Wellness, spoke with Oded Adomi Leshem, Ph.D. of Hope Amidst Conflict & Violence about what is going on in Israel through the lens of hope and positive psychology.
PHOTOS
Resources
For Children + Families
How to talk to your children about this situation:
Our Chief Children + Family Officer, Jacqueline Marks, shares suggestions for conversations with children about tragic and difficult news, which have been adapted from Dr. Becky Kennedy's Guide for When Bad Things Happen. There is no one "right" way to navigate through this time. Please use this guide as a resource and trust your instincts—you know your family best.
National Association of School Psychologists:
Helping Children Cope with Frightening News
Helping Children Cope - Tips for Families and Educators
Kveller:
How to Talk to Kids About What's Happening in Israel Right Now
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) has also developed resources to help children and their families navigate what they are seeing and feeling, notably coping after mass violence.
Combatting Antisemitism
We've gathered some useful online conversation guides, tactics, and additional resources that may help you combat antisemitism and discuss the current conflict in Israel.
- Zioness: How to be an Anti-Antisemite
- USC Shoah Foundation: Facing Antisemitism
- NPR: How to Address Antisemitic Rhetoric When You Encounter It
Discussing the Conflict
- ADL: 10 Ways to Have Conscientious Conversations on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
- Hey Alma: Guide to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
News Outlets
Israeli News Outlets
Resources in Hebrew
Ways to Help
UJA-Federation of New York has launched an Israel Emergency Fund to offer the crucial support that will be needed in the days and weeks to come.
OLAM and SID-Israel have vetted this updated list of Israeli organizations to support.
Jewish Funders Network is updating this list of trusted agencies and nonprofits supported by their members in Israel and the US
Magen David Adom is Israel's medical first response and emergency services and representative to the International Red Cross.
Jgive is a national emergency fund to aid the war victims.
The Fund for Victims of Terrorism of The Jewish Agency, together with the Spirit of Israel and partners around the world, has been mobilized to help the victims through emergency grants and immediate assistance.
Nourish Israel by Jewish Food Society. Asif: Culinary Institute of Israel has mobilized several initiatives to cook and send meals to hospitals, displaced families, and those in need in Israel.
Send a letter to an IDF soldier
Visit oneminaday.com to easily contact your elected officials to support the release of the hostages in Gaza.
Second Line is accepting applications for mental health professionals to volunteer, directly or remotely, with patients in Israel.
Please contact israel@mmjccm.org with any questions.
The David H. Sonabend Center for Israel fosters deeper understanding and connections between the diverse Jewish community in New York and the people of Israel. Our work is to promote broader and more civil dialogue among the diverse New York Jewish community, including expat Israelis, about Israel and our relationship with it; to create a more informed New York Jewish community; to foster and promote broader understanding and dialogue with native Israelis, both in New York and Israel; to broaden and deepen the connection and commitment to Israel by the New York Jewish Community as a whole; and to educate targeted populations among the people of Israel about American Jewry.
Through classes, lectures, panel discussions, film, fine and performing arts, our seasonal magazine TAMUZ, and other cultural offerings, the JCC is a respected home of Israeli content and a place to explore and grow.
For additional information and to stay up-to-date on Israel current events, issues, and topics, please visit any of the resources below:
Makom Rosh Chodesh Monthly In Person Community Sit
Makom Rosh Chodesh Monthly In Person Community Sit
Classes: April 14, May 26, June 9, July 7 & August 4.
Makom Meditation - Unlimited Subscription
Makom Meditation - Unlimited Subscription
The Makom Daily Meditation Subscription provides access to twice daily, Mon-Thu and Fri morning facilitated meditation sessions, led by Makom faculty, for the entire year with one annual payment.
Weekly Drop-in Facilitated Meditation Wednesday Morning Session
Weekly Drop-in Facilitated Meditation Wednesday Morning Session
Join our gifted meditation teacher, Adrienne Schure, every Wednesday morning on Zoom from 10–10:30 am.
Meditation will not meet on Wed, Jun 12 + Wed, Jun 19, 2024.
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Rachel)
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Rachel)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Rachel)
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Rachel)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Advanced Beginner Gimmel (weekly with Sara)
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Advanced Beginner Gimmel (weekly with Sara)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Advance Beginner Aleph (weekly with Sara)
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Advance Beginner Aleph (weekly with Sara)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
[IN PERSON] Hebrew: Beginner Aleph (weekly with Dorit)
[IN PERSON] Hebrew: Beginner Aleph (weekly with Dorit)
In Person. We use the Israeli Ulpan method and materials to teach and improve Hebrew language skills-speaking, comprehension, reading, and writing. You'll find small, interactive classes at all levels taught by experienced Hebrew speakers.
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Beginner Aleph (weekly with Ilana)
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Beginner Aleph (weekly with Ilana)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew Newspapers (weekly with Orly)
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew Newspapers (weekly with Orly)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Rachel)
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Rachel)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Rachel)
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Rachel)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Beginner Dalet (weekly with Rachel)
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Beginner Dalet (weekly with Rachel)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
Positive Psychology: The New Science of Happiness
Positive Psychology: The New Science of Happiness
Can we learn to be happy? Is happiness genetic? How can we manage to be optimistic during such depressing times? These are some of the topics we will explore in this 3-part workshop.
[IN PERSON] Hebrew: Beginner Gimmel for 20s30s (weekly with Dorit)
[IN PERSON] Hebrew: Beginner Gimmel for 20s30s (weekly with Dorit)
This special Ulpan class is exclusively for young professionals in their 20s and 30s. Co-sponsored by The Selma + Lawrence Ruben Center for 20s + 30s.
This class will take place in person at the JCC.
[IN PERSON] Hebrew: Advance Beginner Bet (weekly with Dorit)
[IN PERSON] Hebrew: Advance Beginner Bet (weekly with Dorit)
We use the Israeli Ulpan method and materials to teach and improve Hebrew language skills-speaking, comprehension, reading, and writing. You'll find small, interactive classes at all levels taught by experienced Hebrew speakers.
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Beginner Gimmel (weekly with Dorit)
[VIRTUAL] Hebrew: Beginner Gimmel (weekly with Dorit)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
[IN PERSON] Hebrew: Beginner Gimmel (weekly with Tal)
[IN PERSON] Hebrew: Beginner Gimmel (weekly with Tal)
This class will take place in person at the JCC.
We use the Israeli Ulpan method and materials to teach and improve Hebrew language skills-speaking, comprehension, reading, and writing. You'll find small, interactive classes at all levels taught by experienced Hebrew speakers.
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Orly)
[VIRTUAL] Honors Hebrew (weekly with Orly)
This class will take place virtually. A link to the virtual classroom will be in your confirmation email and emailed to you 30 minutes before each class.
Priority Seating-Fiddler on the Roof (on the Roof) with Steven Skybell
Priority Seating-Fiddler on the Roof (on the Roof) with Steven Skybell
In Person. PRIORITY SEATING. MusicTalks is proud to present a special tribute to Fiddler on the Roof at sunset on the rooftop of the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan.
Fiddler on the Roof on the Roof with Steven Skybell
Fiddler on the Roof on the Roof with Steven Skybell
In Person. General Admission and first + second row seats are sold out. To purchase priority seating (third row), please click here.
Connections Summer Retreat
Connections Summer Retreat
Join us on a summer getaway July 22-24, for three days of adventure at Lake George! Highlights include visiting Six Flags amusement park and water parks, explore the town of Lake George, and dance the night away while listening to live music!
Havdalah for the Hostages
Havdalah for the Hostages
In Person. Join JCC CEO Rabbi Joanna Samuels and exceptional musician Shimon Smith for a song circle and a Havdalah service to pray for the release of the hostages. We will also hold a brief and easy stretching session in honor of hostage Carmel Gat, who was seen practicing yoga in captivity.
What Matters: Advance Care Planning for Seniors
What Matters: Advance Care Planning for Seniors
In Person. Learn about the importance of advance care planning, and engage in meaningful conversations to help ensure that your health care wishes are known and honored by your loved ones.
In love with Broadway: Romantic Songs by Jewish Composers
In love with Broadway: Romantic Songs by Jewish Composers
In Person. Join us for a romantic sunset concert in celebration of Tu B’Av, the Jewish Holiday of Love! The concert will feature some of the best Broadway songs written by notable Jewish creators from the Gershwin's to Rodgers and Hammerstein, Lerner and Loewe to Bernstein.
Celebrate Tu B’Av with Your Loved One
Celebrate Tu B’Av with Your Loved One
Rabbi Brian Fink
In Person. Meet and socialize with other “Modern Ager” couples as we learn about Tu B’Av, the Jewish holiday of love. One registration is for two seats; wine and light snacks will be served.
Fig Tree at JCC Harlem
Fig Tree at JCC Harlem
In Person at JCC Harlem. JCC Harlem is teaming up with Fig Tree, an independent Jewish education program for children ages 5–12, to bring new and enriching Jewish learning opportunities to our community.
ShaJam! Shabbat Sing (6 Months–3 Years, Full Semester)
ShaJam! Shabbat Sing (6 Months–3 Years, Full Semester)
In Person. Get ready, get set...Shabbat! Start your Fridays off right as we sing and dance with friends in a Jewish music class like no other. ShaJam! is led by Tkiya: The Jewish Community Music Initiative.
Appropriate for children ages 3 and under.
Off the Bimah B'nai Mitzvah - Deposit for Year 1 (Tuesdays)
Off the Bimah B'nai Mitzvah - Deposit for Year 1 (Tuesdays)
In Person. Off the Bimah B'nai Mitzvah is a two-year program for students that leads to a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. Students can begin in their 6th or 7th grade school year.
Off the Bimah B'nai Mitzvah - Deposit for Year 2 (Wednesdays)
Off the Bimah B'nai Mitzvah - Deposit for Year 2 (Wednesdays)
In Person. Off the Bimah B'nai Mitzvah is a two-year program for students that leads to a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. This is a deposit toward the overall tuition for Year 2 and will reserve a space for your child in the Wednesday section that will meet from 4:30-5:45 pm beginning in September.
Off the Bimah B'nai Mitzvah - Deposit for Year 2 (Thursdays)
Off the Bimah B'nai Mitzvah - Deposit for Year 2 (Thursdays)
In Person. Off the Bimah B'nai Mitzvah is a two-year program for students that leads to a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. This is a deposit toward the overall tuition for Year 2 and will reserve a space for your child in the Thursday section that will meet from 4:30-5:45 pm beginning in September.
Havurah: Judaism Through Cooking and Food (5-8 Years, Kindergarten to Grade 2)
Havurah: Judaism Through Cooking and Food (5-8 Years, Kindergarten to Grade 2)
In Person. Havurah’s minimesters are designed to embrace Jewish culture and traditions through interactive, project-based learning.
Havurah: Judaism Through Cooking and Food (4-5 Years, Pre-K)
Havurah: Judaism Through Cooking and Food (4-5 Years, Pre-K)
In Person. Havurah’s minimesters are designed to embrace Jewish culture and traditions through interactive, project-based learning.
Havurah Pickup: PS 87 + PS 199 (Judaism Through Cooking and Food, 5-8 Years)
Havurah Pickup: PS 87 + PS 199 (Judaism Through Cooking and Food, 5-8 Years)
In Person. Want to extend your child’s Friday? Our Jewish Enrichment program after school on Fridays offers pickup from PS 87 and PS 199 and a walk with a counselor back to the JCC. Children will enjoy a snack, Jewish stories, and educational short films there before beginning the program at 3:15 pm.
High Holidays Cemetery Visits with Plaza Jewish Community Chapel: Queens (Beth David/Montefiore, Mount Hebron, Mt. Lebanon, Mt Zion)
High Holidays Cemetery Visits with Plaza Jewish Community Chapel: Queens (Beth David/Montefiore, Mount Hebron, Mt. Lebanon, Mt Zion)
This page is for QUEENS (Beth David/Montefiore, Mount Hebron, Mt. Lebanon, Mt Zion).
High Holidays Cemetery Visits with Plaza Jewish Community Chapel: Long Island (Beth Moses, Wellwood, New Montefiore and Mount Ararat)
High Holidays Cemetery Visits with Plaza Jewish Community Chapel: Long Island (Beth Moses, Wellwood, New Montefiore and Mount Ararat)
PLEASE NOTE: REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED - WE MET OUR CAPACITY! PLEASE EMAIL SUSAN ZIZMOR: SZIZMOR@MMJCCM.ORG TO BE ADDED TO THE WAITLIST
High Holidays Cemetery Visits with Plaza Jewish Community Chapel: New Jersey (Cedar Park/Beth El, Riverside)
High Holidays Cemetery Visits with Plaza Jewish Community Chapel: New Jersey (Cedar Park/Beth El, Riverside)
This page is for NEW JERSEY (Cedar Park/Beth El and Riverside)
Havurah Pickup: PS 87 + PS 199 (Judaism Through Tikkun Olam and Community Service, 5-8 Years)
Havurah Pickup: PS 87 + PS 199 (Judaism Through Tikkun Olam and Community Service, 5-8 Years)
In Person. Want to extend your child’s Friday? Our Jewish Enrichment program after school on Fridays offers pickup from PS 87 and PS 199 and a walk with a counselor back to the JCC. Children will enjoy a snack, Jewish stories, and educational short films there before beginning the program at 3:15 pm.
Havurah: Judaism Through Tikkun Olam and Community Service (5-8 Years, Kindergarten to Grade 2)
Havurah: Judaism Through Tikkun Olam and Community Service (5-8 Years, Kindergarten to Grade 2)
In Person. Havurah’s minimesters are designed to embrace Jewish culture and traditions through interactive, project-based learning.
Havurah: Judaism Through Tikkun Olam and Community Service (4-5 Years, Pre-K)
Havurah: Judaism Through Tikkun Olam and Community Service (4-5 Years, Pre-K)
In Person. Havurah’s minimesters are designed to embrace Jewish culture and traditions through interactive, project-based learning.
Tu B’Shevat Seder
Tu B’Shevat Seder
Rabbi Brian Fink
In Person. Come together as a community and learn more about the Tu B’Shevat holiday, a festive celebration of nature. Sample delicious fruits and nuts and taste your choice of wine or grape juice.
Havurah: Judaism Through Storytelling and Book Making (5-8 Years, Kindergarten to Grade 2)
Havurah: Judaism Through Storytelling and Book Making (5-8 Years, Kindergarten to Grade 2)
In Person. Havurah’s minimesters are designed to embrace Jewish culture and traditions through interactive, project-based learning.
Havurah Pickup: PS 87 + PS 199 (Judaism Through Storytelling and Book Making, 5-8 Years)
Havurah Pickup: PS 87 + PS 199 (Judaism Through Storytelling and Book Making, 5-8 Years)
In Person. Want to extend your child’s Friday? Our Jewish Enrichment program after school on Fridays offers pickup from PS 87 and PS 199 and a walk with a counselor back to the JCC. Children will enjoy a snack, Jewish stories, and educational short films there before beginning the program at 3:15 pm.
Havurah: Judaism Through Storytelling and Book Making (4-5 Years, Pre-K)
Havurah: Judaism Through Storytelling and Book Making (4-5 Years, Pre-K)
In Person. Havurah’s minimesters are designed to embrace Jewish culture and traditions through interactive, project-based learning.
Winter Cocktails + Conversation
Winter Cocktails + Conversation
In Person. Mingle with friends and warm your spirits while enjoying seasonal drinks.
Havurah: Shabbat Show, A Jewish Theatrical Adventure (4-5 Years, Pre-K)
Havurah: Shabbat Show, A Jewish Theatrical Adventure (4-5 Years, Pre-K)
In Person. Havurah’s minimesters are designed to embrace Jewish culture and traditions through interactive, project-based learning.
Havurah Pickup: PS 87 + PS 199 (Shabbat Show, A Jewish Theatrical Adventure, 5-8 Years)
Havurah Pickup: PS 87 + PS 199 (Shabbat Show, A Jewish Theatrical Adventure, 5-8 Years)
In Person. Want to extend your child’s Friday? Our Jewish Enrichment program after school on Fridays offers pickup from PS 87 and PS 199 and a walk with a counselor back to the JCC. Children will enjoy a snack, Jewish stories, and educational short films there before beginning the program at 3:15 pm.
Havurah: Shabbat Show, A Jewish Theatrical Adventure (5-8 Years, Kindergarten to Grade 2)
Havurah: Shabbat Show, A Jewish Theatrical Adventure (5-8 Years, Kindergarten to Grade 2)
In Person. Havurah’s minimesters are designed to embrace Jewish culture and traditions through interactive, project-based learning.