The Pozez JCC will close at 3pm on Tue, Feb. 11 due to the impending storm. Chai 5 will provide care until 3pm. All afternoon and evening programs are canceled. J-Fit closes at 3pm/pool closes at 2:30pm.

Jewish Values are at the Heart of Pozez JCC’s Summer Camps

When school is out and the sun is up, kids of all ages enjoy a summer favorite: camp.

This is where they give all kinds of activities a try — archery, painting, ultimate frisbee, woodworking, theatre. And with the freedom to explore comes the opportunity to figure out what they like and who they are. No pressures or expectations allowed here.

Most importantly, every one of Pozez JCC’s camp experiences is fun in nature and laced with meaning. We have four summer camps, each offering a different experience with one common thread: age-old Jewish values are infused into the everyday, making them relevant and relatable over and over again.

“Summer camp has long been a part of the Jewish communal experience,” said Jeff Dannick, Executive Director of Pozez JCC. “Here, we put extra effort into making sure everyone can be together and make memories that impact their lives.”

As we near the official end of summer, a bittersweet time for all camp lovers, we’re taking a look at the magic and memory of each of our camps whose impact runs multi-generational here in Northern Virginia.

Camp Achva

Who: Rising K-10th graders
When: Monday-Friday from 9am-4pm between June-August, in total 3-6 weeks
Where: Gesher Jewish Day School

At Camp Achva, Judaism is intentionally boundless, existing outside of synagogues and classrooms. And oftentimes, in the great outdoors. Kids may be on the soccer field or around the campfire as they sing Hebrew songs or learn Israeli dances. Everywhere you look, they’re doing Jewish — and having fun.

Such a casual space, where shorts and sneakers are the norm, creates one of the most elemental aspects of Achva: connection. From playing Gaga to creating pottery, campers do everything together. They have the freedom to lean into fun — all day.

The emphasis on connection, and being surrounded by counselors who meet every child where they are, has been life-changing for Jodi Enos, a first-time camper at Achva. Finding the right camp for Jodi, who has a complex medical story, has been a yearslong challenge, said her mother, April.

“In the past, other summer camps we tried would tell us they ‘weren’t a good fit’ for our child,” April said. “I had almost given up hope of ever finding a place where she wouldn’t be treated as a burden on a system never designed for kids like her.”

And then, she found Achva, one of the most inclusive Jewish day camps in the region. Here, kavod (respect) and simcha (joy) are social imperatives.

“While the rest of the year our lives are dominated by medical appointments, for six precious weeks, I got to watch my child just be a kid, go to camp, and have fun,” April said. “Camp Achva was clearly engineered from the ground up with kids like our child, and families like us in mind. We’ve found our community.”

Horizon Day Camp

Who: 3 ½ to 16 year olds in the greater metro D.C. area who have cancer and their siblings
When: Monday-Friday from 9am-4pm between June-August, 6 weeks in total
Where: Pozez JCC

Horizon Day Camp, a partnership project between Pozez JCC and Sunrise Association Day Camps, is the only free day camp for children with cancer and their siblings.

The camp is designed to run on “yes” for children who so often hear “no.” Soccer and dance and playground fun — activities that can harm a fragile body — are all possible again because of adaptive equipment and skilled professionals. There are specially trained staff and on-site medical support, which includes a team of nurses supervised by a pediatric oncologist.

Because participants are undergoing treatment, every day of camp is created to stand alone, ensuring they never feel left out when they miss one or more days. The entire Horizon experience is made for children facing one of the biggest challenges of their little lives — and the very existence of this camp is an act of chesed (loving-kindness) and r’fuah (healing).

For siblings Toby and Alex Loewy, the culture and spirit of camp has followed them home, said their mother, Saskia.

“Toby has been singing camp songs each afternoon. Alex repeats values like, ‘We all win when we have fun,’” Saskia said. “The wonderful counselors and chaperones made the magic happen.”

Camp Kesher

Who: 9th-12th graders and 18-27 year olds who are neurodiverse
When: Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-3:45 p.m. between July-August
Where: Pozez JCC and all over DMV area

So many summer memories are made at Camp Kesher, where neurodivergent teens and young adults gain independence, make friends, and have hours of outdoor fun.

Field trips and hands-on activities happen in a warm, structured environment. On Mondays, campers may do yoga or go paint. Tuesday may focus on sports or music. No matter the activity, every day is built to be different and engaging.

To meet participants where they are, Kesher is staffed by experienced educators and trained volunteers. They, and all who make camp possible, uphold the Jewish value of adam yehidi nivra (every person is a unique creation).

“When my son would come home, he would talk about the friends he made, all of the fun places he visited, and the interesting activities he participated in,” said Caroline Pak, who sent her son Ryan to Kesher for a third summer. “I am so glad he could spend part of his summer just having fun with supportive peers and staff.”

Camp Gadol

Who: Adults of all ages
When: Monday-Friday from 9:30am-1:30pm in August, 1 week total
Where: Pozez JCC

Missing the good old camp days? When summers were spent making friendship bracelets and learning Israeli dances? We have a summer camp for kids at heart: Camp Gadol.

This mini-camp experience includes all your favorites: color wars, slingshot archery, singing, dancing, art. Our participants have learned Yemenite basket weaving, participated in a scavenger hunt, explored Jewish wisdom on living, made s’mores over a fire, created Havdalah candles from beeswax, packed Shabbat boxes for Jewish hospital patients, and so much more.

By doing, Camp Gadol has been fostering kehillah (community) for many campers, including Marcia Lawson.

“I was impressed and thankful that Jewish study was incorporated into the camp experience,” Lawson said. “Having someone to guide us through studying with a partner was a deeply satisfying intellectual and religious experience that reminded me of how much I enjoyed Jewish group study in the past.”

Echoing a similar experience, Judy Douglas shared, “Community is so important to Jewish culture. The camp experience was a great way to connect with people in the community. It also allows the time and space to explore facets of Jewish culture in an innovative and fun atmosphere… I do hope to join again next year!”

Highlights from Pozez JCC Summer Camp Experiences

Camp is where children, and in our case, adults, give all kinds of activities a try — archery, painting, ultimate frisbee, woodworking, theatre, and more. And with the freedom to explore comes the opportunity to figure out what they like and who they are. No pressures or expectations.

This summer, while school was out and the sun was up, people of all ages leaned into camp fun at Pozez JCC.

At Camp Achva, Judaism was intentionally boundless, and oftentimes, existing in the great outdoors. Children spent time on the soccer field and around the campfire singing Hebrew songs and learning Israeli dances. Everywhere you looked, they were doing Jewish — and having a good time. 

Children with cancer and their siblings spent their summer at Horizon Day Camp, designed to run on “yes” for those who so often hear “no.” Soccer and dance and playground fun — activities that can harm a fragile body — were all possible again because of adaptive equipment and skilled professionals.

So many memories were made at Camp Kesher, where neurodivergent teens and young adults gained independence, made friends, and had hours of outdoor fun. There were day trips and hands-on activities, including yoga and music.

At Camp Gadol, our space for adults, participants learned Yemenite basket weaving, participated in a scavenger hunt, explored Jewish wisdom on living, made s’mores over a fire, created Havdalah candles from beeswax, packed Shabbat boxes for Jewish hospital patients, and so much more. 

Every one of these camps hold magic and memory. Each is a place of experience, where moments matter in the spaces created. And there is much more to come.

Until next summer!

Embracing Jewish Values as We Prepare for Back-to-School

As the lazy days of summer begin to wane, the buzz of a new school year starts to fill the air. For many families, this transition is a time of excitement, anticipation, and a bit of anxiety. At the Pozez JCC, we believe that integrating Jewish traditions and values into our back-to-school preparations can help make this transition smoother and more meaningful for our children.

Preparing for back to school is about more than just buying new supplies and setting schedules; it’s about setting intentions and embracing the values that will guide us through the year. Jewish traditions emphasize the importance of community (Kehilla), respect (Kavod), and continuous learning. We can embed these values into our children’s routines, helping them feel grounded and supported as they navigate their educational journey.

As we prepare for the new school year, let’s embrace gathering, creating, and celebrating together and enriching our children’s educational journey with the values and traditions that make our Jewish community so special. We look forward to seeing you and your family at upcoming events and wish everyone a smooth and joyous start to the school year.

Local School Start Dates:

August 19th: Falls Church City Public Schools, Fairfax County Schools, Prince William County Schools, Alexandria City Schools

August 22nd: Loudoun County Schools, Gesher Jewish Day School

August 26th: Arlington Schools, Montgomery County MD Schools, DC Schools


Let’s Get Ready B’Yachad (Together)

Pozez JCC has several upcoming events designed to bring families together, celebrate our heritage, and get ready for the school year ahead.

Back to School: Creation in Sand – September 8th

One of the highlights of our back-to-school lineup is the “Creation in Sand” event. This unique and creative activity draws inspiration from the themes of new beginnings, as found in the story of Noah. Families will gather to watch the story of Noah in beautiful sand art, and then create, reflecting on the idea that each school year is a blank canvas, waiting to be filled with learning, growth, and new experiences. This event is a perfect way to inspire creativity and mindfulness as we embark on a new journey together. Celebrate with grandparents as well, on this Grandparents Day! (Two sessions are offered on this day… 10:30 AM in English and 4:00 PM in Russian.)

Pozez JCC Open House – September 22nd

On September 22nd, we invite you to the Pozez JCC Open House from 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM. This is an excellent opportunity for both new and returning families to explore everything our community center has to offer. From educational programs and cultural events to fitness facilities and social gatherings, the Open House will showcase how the Pozez JCC can support your family’s needs throughout the school year. It’s a great chance to meet staff, make new friends, and get involved in our vibrant community. The Open House is not just about discovering resources; it’s about feeling connected and supported as we step into the new school year.

Apple Picking with PJ for Rosh Hashanah – September 22nd, 1pm

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a time for renewal and reflection. What better way to celebrate this season than with a fun-filled day of apple picking at Stribling Orchard in Markham, VA? This family-friendly event connects us to the traditions of Rosh Hashanah, including the sweetness of apples dipped in honey, symbolizing our hopes for a sweet and fruitful year ahead. It’s a wonderful opportunity to teach our children about the significance of Rosh Hashanah while enjoying a delightful outdoor activity.

Families with young children engage, find community through Pozez JCC’s Growing Jewish Families

Looking to connect with the NoVA Jewish community? Pozez JCC’s Growing Jewish Families helps parents and their little ones feel right at home. Quickly and easily.

The program, created in 2008 and made possible through the generous support of The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, connects young families who share interests and most importantly, are navigating a similar stage of life, raising children under the age of 8. From playground playdates to campfires to game nights to Jewish holiday fun — there’s something for everyone.

“Being connected to other moms in my area, who have a shared culture and background, is so important to me,” said Marissa Newberry, a mother of two girls, Maeve, 4, and Maudette, 1. “This program gave my entire family an in-person community.”

Growing Jewish Families is meant to be a low-pressure entry point to Jewish engagement, said Amy Lummer, who heads the program through her role as Family Engagement Director at Pozez JCC. Having been a participant herself, along with her two children, Lummer said the program meets families where they are to create friendship and fun, all through a Jewish lens.

“All of our programming connects to Judaism, whether through a holiday, a value, a mitzvah, or culture,” Lummer said. “We’re here for every family, wherever they may be on their Jewish journey.”

Because Growing Jewish Families creates an open space, where all kinds of practice and identity are welcome, people come as they are. There are self-described “High Holiday Jews” and regular shul-goers. Jews of color, Russian-speaking Jews, and LGBTQ+ Jews. Interfaith couples and single parents who represent different cultures and speak multiple languages, including Hebrew, Spanish, and German.

By coming together, families also grow together, said Maya Thiellen, who has two children, Mackenzie, 5, and Noah, 3.

“Our family has been given opportunities to connect with other Jewish families who have kids the same age as ours,” Thiellen said. “And as we connect, our kids are introduced to Jewish customs and stories in an age-appropriate way,”

Each program is hands-on and accessible, designed to create community for the whole family, and sometimes, just for parents.

There are also a number of adult-only programs. Readers can be a part of Pages and Perspectives, a book club that recently read and discussed “The Amen Effect,” a national bestseller by Rabbi Sharon Brous. The monthly Divas and Diners program for women usually centers around food and games. And dads have their own get togethers, Guys’ Night. The most recent gathering, “In a Pickle” (which sold out), creatively combined pickling and pickleball for a fun night out.

Participant Rachel Birns said these outings, as well as ones geared for parents and their children, have helped her and her son Jack, 3, make new friends through doing.

“There are many different kinds of activities where my son and myself are able to connect with other young families in the area and wider community,” Birns said. “And because of that, we feel more connected to the NoVa Jewish community.”

Finding and engaging new faces usually goes something like this: Pozez JCC connects with families through PJ Library®, Jewish events or programs, a quick email, the newsletter, an online form for new parents, or on a playground with their own children. From there, J-Family Ambassadors, who welcome newcomers and schedule family-fun events, reach out to set up a coffee talk.

There are six ambassadors, all of whom are moms and have participated in Growing Jewish Families themselves. Each serves a different area of NoVa, from Arlington to Aldie.

Somewhat of a neighborhood concierge, the ambassadors provide families with information on preschools and synagogues, introduce them to Pozez JCC and other community programming, connect them with other families, and get to know their interests.

One of those ambassadors is Faith Plavchan, a mom of three with more than 15 years of experience in early childhood education. She recently connected two new moms, one in Arlington and one in Alexandria, who registered their children for the only Jewish infant program in the area, run by Pozez JCC.

“This is what we do, we make those connections to make an impact,” Plavchan said. “By bringing more families together in our Jewish community, we go beyond the boundaries of our JCC building.”

More than 900 families have been engaged this past year through 12 or so programs per month, along with individual coffee talks between ambassadors and families.

To meet people where they are — geographically and Jewishly — a majority of the programs exist outside of the walls of the Pozez JCC. And this month, many will be happening outdoors.

Throughout the summer, Brie Ribner, ambassador for Prince William County, has been organizing two recurring programs: Trail Tuesdays and Water Wednesdays.

Families gather on Tuesday mornings, before temperatures climb too high for comfort, to hike one of the many trails snaking through Northern Virginia. On Wednesday afternoons, parents are taking their children to cool off and splash about at a creek or water park. The location of these events and others are never listed online, ensuring the safety of all participants.

“There’s a real hunger for a sense of belonging, and we create that belonging in a secure environment,” Ribner said. “Once families are here, they keep coming back.”

Among those who keep coming back are NoVa resident Heather and her daughter, her only child. One of their favorite programs was Pajamuary Planetarium Havdalah, where they experienced outer space, up close and personal.

Just before Havdalah, an astronomer welcomed attendees into a large, inflatable planetarium, a dome-like structure. Once inside, he projected and explained a video of our entire solar system. Heather and her daughter sat in darkness and watched planets spin across the ceiling of the planetarium.

“This sparked our interest in astronomy, and soon after, our family visited the George Mason University telescope for the first time,” Heather said. “We’re thankful for Growing Jewish Families for their hard work and attention to details and our J-Family Ambassador for building outgoing, caring, and positive connections.”

Danielle Arthur, an ambassador in Alexandria, said Growing Jewish Families is creating a Jewish engagement pipeline, with the first touchpoint rooted in early childhood. Every parent is seeking something different, and no matter what that something is, there are friendly faces ready to point them in the right direction.

“We are a resource for raising Jewish children,” Arthur said. “This is a flexible program, where people get out of it what they want to get out of it.”

At programs, she gauges success by the number of families who connect themselves, without her prompting. When she notices parents trading phone numbers and then sees them post photos from their playdates, those are wins.

Arthur was in their shoes just a few years ago. A former program participant, she and her daughter Norah met some of their closest friends through Growing Jewish Families.

Now, Norah goes to elementary school with some of them, including one boy who she says she’s going to marry, often telling her mom, “I can’t believe I met the boy I’m going to marry in preschool.”

“These connections we make between families are so important,” Arthur said. “Oftentimes, they’re life-changing.”  

NURTURING BEGINNINGS: ELEVATING THE WORK OF EARLY CHILDHOOD

Pozez JCC’s Within the Reggio Emilia approach, documentation serves many purposes. As early childhood educators, the process of engaging in documentation forces us to be mindful, intentional, and attuned to the learning processes of the children. It requires us to listen deeply to what the children are communicating, which takes place through “one hundred languages” of expression. It beckons us to truly see each child, and for them to feel that they are seen, heard, affirmed, and valued. In capturing the learning of the children, documentation makes this learning visible to fellow early childhood colleagues, the children themselves, families, and the greater community, becoming not simply something to show, but a source of reflection, conversation, and a means of further extending the meaning-making processes of children. 

For the past 14 years with the exception of Covid, the ECLC has created an annual Exhibit sharing documentation of the unique and emergent learning journeys that have evolved in classes over the course of the school year. These journeys, depicted in narrative form with photographs, videos, and artifacts of the children’s work, share with a greater audience the importance of early childhood, and the wonder and innate wisdom that children hold. 

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, the ECLC assumes a constructivist approach to learning (meaning that children are active participants in the building of knowledge) and implements an emergent curriculum (the curriculum is not preset or predetermined, but rather evolves based on the educators’ observations of the children’s questions, intrigues, and theories). This allows for learning that is rich, meaningful, and diverse from class to class, and year to year, making each annual Exhibit new, exciting, and hopefully thought-provoking.

The exhibit also serves to illustrate what high quality early childhood education looks like as a point of advocacy to voice the need to address the early childhood education and care crisis that currently faces our nation. Throughout the United States, access to high quality early childhood education and care remains inequitable. The ECLC is fortunate to be part of a community and organization where the value of early childhood is seen, and we hope to use this and Exhibit as a platform to advocate for changes made on a policy level.

We were thrilled to host this year’s Exhibit “Nurturing Beginnings: Elevating the Work of Early Childhood” with an opening event this past Thursday, where guests were presented with a brief presentation followed by an invitation to view the Exhibit alongside the children who are featured in these documented learning experiences. The Exhibit will remain up in the Bodzin art gallery until August 5th, we invite you to check it out!  

Camp Achva celebrates 55 years of Jewish impact

Once an Achva-nik, always an Achva-nik.

There are roughly 5,000 of them. Some are kindergarteners. Others are pushing 70. The common thread: Their summer memories were made at Camp Achva, where Jewish kids go to make friends, gain independence, and of course, have hours of outdoor fun. 

And this year, Achva-nik pride is on full display to celebrate 55 years of impact. The day camp has long been a centerpiece of Jewish culture in Northern Virginia, home to the largest Jewish population in the Washington metropolitan area.

There are 200-some campers who spend three to six weeks on the lush grounds of Gesher Jewish Day School, which transforms into Camp Achva from June through August.

The campus is packed with 5 to 14 year olds trying all sorts of activities — from slingshots to archery to woodworking to arts. Next summer, that list will grow to include weaving, climbing, and possibly racing through a new low-ropes course, an opportunity to be adventurous while building leadership and teamwork skills. 

By doing, kids begin to figure out what they like and who they are, without pressures or expectations. 

This is how Alexi Wirpel, 17, grew into herself. During nine summers at Achva, seven of them as a camper and one as a counselor, she tried new things, sang and danced on Shabbat, and met some of her closest friends. 

“When I started, I was a shy kid who was terrified to talk to people,” Wirpel said. “Camp brought me out of my shell, and I genuinely don’t know what I would have done if that hadn’t happened.”

For Wirpel, Achva is a family tradition. Her uncle, Josh, was the very first registered camper in 1969. Her mother, Andi, was an Achva-nik for several years before becoming a counselor.

“To me, Camp Achva means community,” Andi, 58, said. “I’m thrilled that my kids attended camp, and now my daughter, Alexi, is a counselor.”

A big draw for the Wirpels and other families: Camp makes Judaism fun. Saying hamotzi over bread and singing Hebrew songs can happen on the nature trails, soccer field, or even around the fire pit. All the while, kids are with old and new friends in a casual space, where shorts and sneakers are the norm.

Everything is designed to meet campers where they are physically, emotionally, socially, and above all, Jewishly. 

Jewish summer camps, a product of the late 1800s and early 1900s in America, were largely born out of a need to connect the next generation with their roots. The founding of Camp Achva in 1969 is no exception. 

The story goes: Northern Virginia was a region dotted with Jewish institutions but void of Jewish day camps. Taking note, a mother of three complained to her husband, “There are no Jewish camps here.” He reached into his pocket, handed her a $50 bill, and suggested, “Go start a camp.”

And she did. The woman, Adele Greenspon, opened the very first Jewish day camp in Northern Virginia, with help from fellow moms, Shirley Waxman and Judy Frank. They welcomed 70 campers their first summer.

Ron Hohauser, 55, was one of the original Achva-niks, a camper in the 1970s and a counselor in the 1980s. There, he took to three sports: Gaga, punchball, and ultimate frisbee. He also learned Hebrew songs and Israeli dances.

“Camp Achva gave me a sense of belonging and connections to our local community,” Hohauser said. “I knew what I would be doing every summer, and I knew I’d love it.” 

Stephanie Sanders Levy was another camper during the early days of Achva.

“We were a small camp with big dreams,” Levy said. “That required passion and innovation from the directors, and support from parents and the community to ensure that we would experience a fun program filled with Jewish history, tradition and values through music, drama, art, and dance.”

Years of camp strengthened her connection to the Jewish people and Israel, encouraging her to take on Jewish leadership roles as she grew. Levy has since been on the board of Federations, synagogues, and other Jewish institutions. 

This story is a common one, where Achva-niks grow up to be active Jewish adults. Wanting to be a doer in the Jewish community starts with empowerment, one of the most elemental aspects of Achva. 

Unlike school, kids have input on and ownership of their days. They can choose to create pottery or build a birdhouse or play kickball. The flexibility and informality of camp teaches kids to lean into joy.

Another crucial element to becoming a Jewish doer is inclusion, said Greg Feitel, who serves as director of Camp Achva, his dream job as a child.

Feitel, a former camper and counselor, said Achva has grown to become the most inclusive Jewish day camp in the region. Of 200-some children, approximately 100 have a diagnosis for neurodivergence. 

To ensure all campers can participate to the fullest extent, morning pep rallies are held outdoors to better disperse sound. Extra time is built into daily schedules to help kids transition from one activity to the next. Staff participate in ongoing, comprehensive training to learn how to meet each child where they are.

“We adapt our environment to our campers rather than adapt campers to our environment,” Feitel said.

This summer, hundreds of campers will do activities in line with the 2024 camp theme, “Camp is More Than a Bagel.” Playful and laced with meaning, the theme was inspired by Jewish is More Than a Bagel: Songs for Jewish Children, an album by Achva-nik Shirley Grossman.

For years, Grossman wrote songs about Jewish experiences and traditions that fellow campers would sing and dance to — at all hours. Michelle Pearlstein was one of them. She still remembers the words and moves from her time at camp in the 70s and 80s.

Pearlstein, who now serves as development director of Pozez JCC, hangs on to one of her earliest camp memories, a photo of her showing off a gappy smile and a 1976 T-shirt. She is one of 24 JCC employees who went to Achva, and her children are second-generation Achva-niks.

“Those of us who love it, we just don’t leave,” Pearlstein said. “Camp is a magical experience, where we bring the joy of Jewish living to life.”

Inclusion programs support growth for people with disabilities

More than 1,000 people, ranging from ages 3 to 76, have participated in a series of inclusion programs, headed by Pozez JCC’s Inclusion and Disabilities Services. Guided by Jewish values of respect and empathy, the programs are part of a long-standing effort to engage people with disabilities in the Northern Virginia community, supporting their growth as they navigate different ages and stages of life.

Many have been diagnosed with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or Down Syndrome. To meet participants where they are, each program is backed by research findings and staffed by experienced educators and trained volunteers. 

“Everyone brings their own unique self to come together to make all that we do so special, and to foster a sense of pride in who they are,” said Alison Pasternak, the Inclusion and Disability Program Coordinator at Pozez JCC. “Our inclusion programs are a place where people come to find acceptance, community, friendship, and fun.”

A series of social skills classes, geared for 3 to 15 year olds, focus on emotional regulation and conversation skills. Children learn by doing — everything from asking and answering questions to winning and losing to making and keeping friends to coping and calming strategies. With growth comes more confidence and independence, and of course, they have fun along the way.

The classes were created in 2008 by a team of four professionals, including Melissa Hochberg, the Resource Specialist for Pozez JCC. With her background in special education, she has been able to support children and their families in a safe, comfortable environment.

“Our participants, of all ages, need a place to feel safe and included,” Hochberg said. “Parents feel safe at the JCC because their kids are not only cared for, but they are loved.”

For those very reasons, Melissa Napoli has been bringing her daughter, Sofia, to Pozez JCC since she was 4 years old. Sofia, now 19, has participated in nearly every inclusion program, starting with social skills classes.

“The JCC programming and excellent staff have been an essential part of the infrastructure that has made Sofia who she is today,” Napoli said. “They’ve given her the confidence to successfully communicate her needs, navigate the community, and create relationships with her peers.”

Napoli said her daughter, who is very outgoing and friendly, learned to recognize facial expressions and respond to social cues, giving her a foundation of skills to better understand and respond to different situations. 

As she grew older, Sofia attended Camp Kesher, a Pozez JCC camp for neurodiverse teens and young adults. Through field trips and hands-on activities, she had the freedom to make friends and gain independence in a warm, structured space.

“Sofia has blossomed into an independent woman who advocates extremely well for herself,” Napoli said. “The best part of her growth is that she is aware of her challenges and knows she has a ‘safety net’ or infrastructure she can count on for guidance and support.” 

For Sofia and her peers, social skills classes in particular have served as a gateway to other inclusion efforts, including a group of social clubs called Going Places! Here, teenagers, young adults, and grown adults build upon their skills and make lasting connections in a low-key setting, created for their age group.

Going Places! used to meet every other month. Some days were spent bowling or mini golfing. Others involved a stroll around a mall or museum. Each outing was planned with intention, giving participants a safe space to make friends and memories. 

“Everyone needs a place to belong,” Hochberg said. “Everyone needs to have an opportunity to make friends. To try new things. To have typical experiences.”

Going Places! was co-created by Pozez JCC and Jewish Social Services Agency in 2008. Hochberg was there from the very beginning, serving as facilitator. She attended nearly every single outing, oftentimes with her husband and kids staffing alongside her. 

During her first of 15 years as facilitator, a young woman piped up after an event and said, “I have friends. I’ve never had friends before. I can’t wait two months to see them.” 

“I said, ‘Okay, we’ll meet next month then,’” Hochberg said. 

The want and need for more face time increased the number of get togethers, which have taken place once a month, sometimes more. Over the years, more people have joined Going Places!, bringing the number of regular participants from 17 to 80. 

With growth, came recognition. In 2010, Going Places! was a finalist for the Mutual of America Community Partnership Merit Award, which recognizes outstanding nonprofit organizations and their contributions to society. Participants and their families were invited to an award luncheon.

As the program has grown, the people have, too. 

“I made wonderful friends at the club,” said Valerie Maizel, a participant. “I have gained confidence, learned how to approach new people, and discovered I can enjoy communicating with them. I greatly appreciate the opportunities I have at Going Places! and the positive effect it has had on my life.”

The club has sparked real relationships, from long-term couples to lifelong friendships. 

Hochberg considers one of the biggest successes to be an ongoing hangout via Zoom, originally created to ease loneliness amid COVID-19. On Monday nights, anywhere from 20-30 people gather virtually to chat, play games, and just be there for one another. 

The group wanted to keep meeting, even after shuttered venues, face masks, and homebound days became norms of the past. So they did, with encouragement from Hochberg. She supported two participants as they learned to facilitate the hangout, and they’ve kept the momentum going.

“They did it,” Hochberg said. “They learned the leadership skills to keep this event on the calendar every week. And that’s a big win.” 

Connections have led to meaningful relationships, which continue long after participants complete inclusion programs at Pozez JCC. Even those who have moved away still make an effort to remain in touch, especially with Hochberg. 

One former participant has become a penpal, sending postcards about her new life in Montana. Others text her with life updates. And some parents still email her for resources, even if their child is no longer a child. 

“These are real relationships,” Hochberg said. “These are real friendships.”

Celebrating Success & Community: 3rd Annual HorizonWALKS

What an incredible day it was at our 3rd Annual HorizonWALKS event on Sunday, April 14, 2024, held at National Harbor on the banks of the Potomac River. This year, bringing his energy and empathy to the stage, Shomari Stone, FOX5 reporter and news anchor, hosted the in-person event that drew participants from all around the Metro DC area.

We are grateful for the strong turnout and unwavering support from our amazing walkers, donors, fundraisers, volunteers, and staff. With 31 spirited teams and more than 150 enthusiastic participants hitting the trail (nearly 200 registered!), alongside the heartfelt presence of 30 devoted staff and volunteers, the sense of community was inspiring. Each step taken was in support of our campers and their families.

This year, it is anticipated that camp enrollment will surpass 100 campers – tripling its inaugural summer of 32 campers. The growth in demand for the camp underscores the importance of having the community step up to help raise the critical funds needed to offer Horizon Day Camp and its year-round programming to these families completely free of charge.

Continuing the Journey

We are thrilled to announce that, thanks to all this support, this year’s WALK has raised nearly $108,000 so far, and every single dollar stays here in the DMV! This incredible achievement ensures that the more than 70 children, who have already registered this year, will have the opportunity to experience the magic of camp and rediscover the joy of childhood, even in the face of cancer.

But our journey doesn’t end here! The HorizonWALKS donation link will remain active until April 30th, providing all of us with the opportunity to continue making a difference. It costs $6,000 per child to provide camp and year-round activities. We encourage you to rally your teams, family, and friends for one final push to help us reach our goal of $125,000 and send even more deserving children to camp.

Together, we are crafting moments of ellation and allowing children to just be children by participating in camp spirit days, swimming, singing camp songs and learning dances, shining during talent shows, and more! Let’s continue our journey, raising the needed funds to bring joy and so much more to the campers.

Thank You 2024 HorizonWALKS Sponsors!

  • Presenting Sponsor: Reston Limousine
  • Sponsor support from: AvalonBay, BARE International, Care Camps, National Harbor, Pride Staff, Golden Boot Soccer, Patient First, EagleBank, All Round Foods, Hardesty Concrete Constructions Inc., Spectra Credit Union, Flight Adventure Park, DC Divas, Tasos Katopodis, Harris Teeter, Select Event Group, and Pupatella

To continue to be part of this incredible journey of hope, community, and celebration, visit our event website at www.sunrise-walks.org/metrodc for more information and to get involved.

More Than A Walk

Sometimes it feels like the world is a scary place and then a friend, or family member, or someone you trust comes along and can make the worry go away with just a smile or a hug. Unfortunately, we can’t make cancer go away for the kids who attend Horizon Day Camp, but what we can do, and do REALLY well, is to bring smiles and laughter to their summer… every day they are at camp, that is our goal.

Because the camp is no charge to the families whose children attend, the camp is dependent on philanthropy to cover the expenses.

HorizonWALKS is our largest, annual community event to benefit the J’s Horizon programs which includes a six-week summer day camp, as well as year-round in-hospital programs and fun days for children with cancer and their families.  As mentioned, all programs are free to families and are only possible thanks to the generous philanthropy of community members and partners.  

On April 14th, more than 200 people from across Metro DC will come together at National Harbor to help us reach our $125,000 goal to support this magical program. But it’s much more than a walk. It’s a chance for everyone who cares so deeply to appreciate the smiles, the friendships, the connections, and the support that Horizon provides. 

This year, we are thrilled to have 29 teams walking (at the time of this writing… and teams are registering every day!). Walkers include camper families, counselors, corporate partners, and community champions. Check-in and family fun activities begin at 8am and our short, mile-long walk begins at 9am. 

There’s still time for YOU to join us!  Visit our WALKS site to register to walk with us. Not available on the 14th? Use the same link to make your donation. 

It costs $6,000 per child to provide our year-round activities. Help us bring joy to as many children battling this terrible disease as possible by helping to raise as much money as possible. We are well on our way to meeting our goal and YOU can help us get over the top! 

Nurturing Tomorrow: Upholding the Rights of the Child through Early Childhood Education

In the intricate tapestry of human rights, the rights of the child stand as an indispensable thread, weaving together the fabric of a just and equitable society. Among these rights, the significance of early childhood education shines brightly as a cornerstone, laying the groundwork for a flourishing future. Following WWII, the citizens of Reggio Emilia, Italy, recognized the intrinsic value of early childhood education in fostering the holistic development of children while championing their inherent rights, and ultimately contributing to a more moral and just society.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) enshrines the fundamental rights of every child, emphasizing their entitlement to protection, provision, and participation. Central to these rights is the principle that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of their background or circumstances. Early childhood, encompassing the formative years from birth to eight, constitutes a pivotal stage wherein these rights must be safeguarded and nurtured. While the 54 articles detailed in the Convention on the Rights of the Child consist of what may be deemed undeniable human rights, including “You have the right to be protected from kidnapping” (Article 11) and “You have the right to play and rest” (Article 31), the United States is the only UN member to not have ratified it.

Early childhood education transcends mere academic instruction; it is a holistic journey encompassing cognitive, emotional, social, and physical domains. Through purposeful interactions and enriched environments, children embark on a voyage of discovery, curiosity, and self-realization. Within the ECLC, key components such as a constructivist approach, play-based learning, supportive relationships, and inclusive practices foster a fertile ground for exploration, creativity, and resilience.

Cognitive Development:

Early childhood education lays the foundation for cognitive abilities, nurturing skills such as language acquisition, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Engaging experiences stimulate neural connections, cultivating a lifelong thirst for knowledge and inquiry.

Emotional Well-being:

By nurturing emotional intelligence and empathy, early childhood education equips children with essential tools for understanding and managing their emotions. A nurturing environment fosters resilience and self-confidence, empowering children to navigate life’s challenges with courage and compassion.

Social Competence:

Interactions with peers and caregivers within the early childhood setting promote the development of social skills, including cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution. These experiences cultivate a sense of belonging and interconnectedness, fostering inclusive communities grounded in respect and understanding.

Physical Health:

Promoting physical activity, healthy habits, and nutrition within early childhood education settings lays the groundwork for lifelong well-being. By prioritizing holistic health, educators instill values of self-care and respect for one’s body, nurturing a generation empowered to lead active and fulfilling lives.

As we champion the rights of the child through early childhood education, we must confront systemic inequities that threaten to undermine these aspirations. Disparities in access, quality, and resources perpetuate cycles of disadvantage, denying countless children the opportunity to fulfill their potential. Addressing these disparities requires concerted efforts at local, national, and global levels, prioritizing equitable policies, investments, and partnerships that dismantle barriers to education and opportunity, advocacy work that the ECLC is actively engaged in.

In the intersection between rights and realities, early childhood education emerges as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter, more inclusive future. By upholding the rights of the child and investing in their early years, we sow the seeds of progress, compassion, and resilience. Like the citizens of Reggio Emilia, we strive to work towards a world where every child, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to flourish and soar.

We look forward to inviting the Pozez community to celebrate NAEYC’s upcoming Week of the Young Child (April 6-12, 2024), during which the ECLC will raise awareness for the importance of early childhood, high quality early learning, and the critical role that early childhood educators and families play in young children’s growth and development.

In honor of Week of the Young Child, we’ve planned a week of special days for our children, families, educators, and fellow community members to participate in!

“Music Monday”: Dance Party! At 11am, the ECLC will drop whatever we’re doing and dance together in celebration of early childhood – all are invited to participate!

“Tasty Tuesday”: We’ll show our appreciation for our family partnerships by offering a coffee bar and refreshments for families in the lobby in the morning.

“Work Together Wednesday”: Educator Potluck! The ECLC staff will work together to put on a delicious spread to be enjoyed together.

“Artsy Thursday”: Chalk the walk! Our ECLC children will be invited to transform the sidewalk into a work of art.

“Family Fridays”: In addition to our in-person Shabbat, we’ll be providing postcards for family and community members to sign and send to policy makers advocating for the importance of early childhood.