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Category: Jewish Holidays

From Grief to Gratitude: How Pozez JCC is Honoring the Yoms and Holding Community

Posted on by Dionna Dash

Grief lingers in the shadow of Oct. 7.

There’s no linear path to healing. Along the way, as bumpy and crooked as that path may be, there’s a bright spot: community. People stay by our sides, supporting us as we navigate through moments of pain and vulnerability, and because of that, there’s an undeniable strength that emerges from being in community.

We, Jewish Northern Virginia, are on that path now.

As three Israeli holidays approach, Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day), Yom HaZikaron (Israel Memorial Day), and Yom HaAtzmaut (Israel Independence Day), Pozez JCC is creating space for remembrance, healing, and hope.

These Yoms (days), which follow each other in close succession, invite a powerful journey from sorrow to celebration. They ask community members to remember the Holocaust, honor the lives of fallen Israeli soldiers and victims of terror, and then celebrate the miracle of Israel.

“You’re both being grateful for what you have, but at the same time, always remembering the price you have to pay,” says Dean Bagdadi, the JCC’s shaliach (Israeli emissary), who returned to IDF reserve service after October 7. “We try to bring that same emotional duality, the grief and gratitude, into our community here every year.”

This spring, Pozez JCC is hosting a thoughtful series of events to mark the Yoms. 

Community members, through Zikaron BaSalon, have already been gathering in homes, having in-depth discussions about how the Holocaust affected their own families and hearing firsthand accounts from survivors.

To come, there will be music-filled memorial ceremonies, a comedy night with American-Israeli comedian Joel Chasnoff, and a cooking demo led by Israeli chef Nissimmi Naim Naor. Each event is intended to hold space for tears, laughter,  conversation, and connection.

The events also acknowledge another difficult reality: rising antisemitism and Holocaust denial.

“We’re seeing what I’d call Holocaust inversion, where the memory of our suffering is being turned against us,” says Ryan Gardiner, JCC board member and chair of the Israeli Committee. “Fostering memory, keeping it alive, that’s more important now than ever.”

Gardiner thought back to being in Israel for the Yoms in 2010, when he was deployed with the Navy. On Yom HaZikaron, the entire country paused for two minutes of silence, a moment he remembers as “haunting and beautiful.” Traffic came to a halt. Friends stopped chatting. There was just silence.

“The country stops – cars, people, everything. You feel the unity,” he said.

But the Yoms are also about resilience. About holding onto joy. And about showing up for one another. 

A community favorite, the Taste of Israel festival, will return with food, music, and activities for all ages on Sunday, May 4 at Gesher Jewish Day School in Fairfax.

“It’s an opportunity to show the vibrancy of Israeli culture,” Dean said. “It’s not just about the pain. Israelis are joyful people. We dance. We laugh.”

One of the festival crafts will give children an opportunity to make red flowers, the kind that bloom across Southern Israel, especially near the Gaza envelope, the area hit hardest on October 7.

“Those flowers have become a symbol,” Bagdadi said. “Not just of loss, but of life. A symbol that we will rebuild. That we are rebuilding.”

For Amy Lummer, the J’s Family Engagement Director, the events are about meeting people where they are.

“Some people know these holidays intimately. Others are hearing about them for the first time,” she says. “But no matter where you are on your journey, we want you to feel welcomed, seen, and proud of who you are.”

Northern Virginia is home to a large Israeli population, many of whom long for the communal experience of these holidays.

“People are really looking for a community that feels safe, secure, and embracing. That’s what we’re trying to provide at the J,” says Brett Isserow, JCC Board President. “For Israelis especially, the Yoms are one of those rare moments where they can come together and have conversations with others who share a deeper sensitivity and understanding, something they may not always find in their daily lives here in Northern Virginia.”

As the Jewish world continues to navigate fragility, Pozez JCC offers something powerful: a place to gather and belong. A place where memory lives, hope grows, and a connection to Israel binds people together with one story, one song, and one community event at a time.

Learn more about commemorating the Yoms at Pozez JCC.

Me’Avdut Le’Herut: Finding Freedom and Familiarity in a New Seder

Posted on by Dean Bagdadi

I can say with certainty that Pesach is my favorite Jewish holiday. Growing up, Pesach was a 3-week vacation from school. A huge family Seder, woven with funny traditions, the holiday always bring joy and thoughts of home to me. And, here in Northern Virginia, to be a guest at someone else’s Seder made me feel both a stranger and at home at the same time. The added items to the Seder plate, the different tunes and songs, the funny ways of telling the story of Exodus, those were new to me. And, like any other time I experience something new, it takes a while to adjust, as it initially emphasizes the differences between here and there.

But at the same time, nothing feels more familiar than walking into a family’s house prepared for the Seder. The smell of food in the air, knowing the distance between you and that smell depends on the will of the Seder leaders, and they are determined. The familiarity of sitting together, scrolling through a shared history, remembering what we’ve been through. Taking the opportunity of a family meal on a nice spring evening to be grateful for what we have, that feels familiar. But having two Seders, one after the other? You’re crazy. The human body is not built to absorb that much food. That’s a step too far!

Pesach brings an opportunity for reflection, to look back at what we’ve done this year, and to stop for a deep breath. Last Pesach it was unimaginable to think about celebrating our freedom while we are at war, while there’s hostages still missing, and while Antisemitism is at its peak (I hope). But we did, and it was a mixture. A mixture of hopes and concerns, of gratitude and pain. Such are also Israel’s national days that are nearly upon us, the Yoms.

And just like last year, we should take a deep breath. We’re thankful for our sovereignty, but we know we’re at war. We’re grateful for our freedom, but not all of us are free. We’re proud of our history, but we know the price we paid. We’re appreciative of where we are, but we know we must keep moving.

Take a deep breath, eat some food, and continue walking. This desert journey is a lot longer than 40 years.

Chag Sameach!

Purim: A Holiday of Mitzvot and Merriment

Posted on by Amy Lummer

If there’s a holiday that embraces fun, creativity, and community, it’s Purim! Think of it as the ultimate Jewish costume party—full of meaning. Every year, we celebrate the story of Queen Esther’s bravery by dressing up, giving to others, and, of course, indulging in plenty of hamantaschen or, in Israel, oznei Haman. Ears (oznei) or hats (Taschen)? You decide!

At my house, the costume planning is eclectic. Over the years, my kids have worn everything from Alexander and Eliza Hamilton to a cloud, including a mermaid, a vampire, the Millennium Falcon (epic!), a shirt that said “This is my Human Costume, I am Really a Cat,” and a ladybug. Purim is the one day where the more creative (or unexpected) the costume, the better!

But Purim isn’t just about costumes. It’s also a time to fulfill four special mitzvot (commandments):
👑 Hearing the Megillah – The Book of Esther is read aloud, and every time Haman’s name is mentioned, we drown it out with groggers (or just really loud cheering and stomping!). You can make your own, or use egg shakers and other instruments in your home.
🎁 Giving Mishloach Manot – We exchange festive food packages with friends and family. These little bundles of joy—often filled with hamantaschen, fruit, and treats—spread sweetness and connection.
💰 Giving Tzedakah – Purim reminds us to give to those in need, ensuring everyone can partake in the joy of the holiday.
🍽 Enjoying a Seudah – The Purim feast is a time to gather, eat, and celebrate with family and friends. It’s a meal filled with laughter, gratitude, and (if you’re lucky) an extra round of hamantaschen.

Speaking of hamantaschen, I have to share my favorite recipe! If you’ve never made these triangle-shaped cookies before, this best hamantaschen recipe is the perfect place to start. Whether you go classic with poppy seed filling or get creative – I won last year’s contest at the J with Halvah Brownie – they are a Purim must-have.

We at Growing Jewish Families can’t wait to celebrate with you! Look out for Purim events happening near you, and be sure to stop by in your best costume—we look forward to seeing what you come up with this year!

Chag Purim Sameach!  Happy Purim!

Seeds of Community: Celebrating Tu B’Shevat

Posted on by Amy Lummer

Forget the candles and cake, the Jewish holiday of Tu B’Shevat celebrates the “Birthday of the Trees” with fruits, nuts, and a deep appreciation for nature. One of the four Jewish New Years in the Hebrew calendar, Tu B’Shevat originally served as a practical marker for farmers in ancient Israel to determine when trees were old enough for harvest. Over time, it has evolved into a Jewish Earth Day, a moment to appreciate and care for the environment. Many people observe the holiday with a Tu B’Shevat Seder, enjoying fruits and nuts mentioned in the Torah while reflecting on the blessings of nature.

In my family, we mark Tu B’Shevat by planting parsley, which we (hopefully!) harvest for Passover. We enjoy the anticipation as we watch the tiny seeds sprout. And then share the awe as they grow into something we can later place on our Seder plate and use in our yummy matzah ball soup. We enjoy this annual tradition that connects us to the Hebrew calendar’s flow from holiday to holiday. The task is a small but meaningful ritual for each of us — that teaches patience and appreciation for both the natural world and Jewish traditions.

At the Pozez JCC, Tu B’Shevat is more than just a holiday—it reflects our values of feeling “Pride” in Judaism, “tikkun olam” (repairing the world), and “Learning.” We encourage families to celebrate in ways that feel meaningful, whether by planting something new, participating in a Tu B’Shevat Seder, or taking action to care for the planet. As we honor this day, we reaffirm our commitment to community, sustainability, and Jewish learning. However you choose to observe Tu B’Shevat, may it be filled with growth, renewal, and appreciation for the world around us.

How do you celebrate Tu B’Shevat? Share on your social media sites!

Impact and Action: How Pozez JCC creates a welcoming space for all 

Posted on by Dionna Dash

Our Northern Virginia community is as vast and diverse as the needs of its residents. Here at the J, we strive to meet those needs for all who seek supportive spaces in which to connect, learn and grow — regardless of age, religion, or ability.

By fostering inclusion, encouraging social action, and nurturing the next generation, we encourage an exchange of ideas between Northern Virginia residents — both Jewish and of other faiths and identities — that enriches the broader community.

Fostering Inclusion

We are committed to inclusion, both by making programming accessible to all and by practicing acceptance for people from all backgrounds. This commitment is actualized through a number of programs, such as our annual ReelAbilities Film Festival-Greater Washington, a celebration of the artistic expressions of people with disabilities; Camp Achva, which is based on Jewish values and welcomes children of all identities; and Sunrise Day Camp-Greater Washington which brings joy to children with cancer and their siblings.

Complimenting these programs is our Inclusion and Disability Services Program which features social skills classes and adapted sports tailored for neurodiverse youth and those living with disabilities.

“The JCC programming has given my daughter, Sofia, the confidence to communicate her needs and create relationships with her peers,” said Melissa Napoli, whose daughter has been attending social skills classes for more than a decade.

The relationships formed in these classes are further fostered through our Going Places! program – a monthly social club where neurodiverse teens and adults socialize during activities like bowling and mini golfing.

“I have gained confidence, learned how to approach new people, and discovered I can enjoy communicating with them,” said participant Valerie Maizel.

Encouraging Social Action

Inspired by the values of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness), the J launched its Volunteer Services program last June, under the leadership of Emily Braley. This program engages families throughout Northern Virginia to follow their passions for social justice, the environment, and more.

Emily recently shared, “Volunteering at the J brings our community together. You could volunteer at any food bank or shelter but doing it with other members of the J makes it even more meaningful as we strengthen our connections to each other while making the world a better place.”

NV Rides, a building block of the J’s social action efforts, was launched in 2014. The volunteer driver network includes 15+ partners overseen by Pozez JCC. The mission, to help seniors in Northern Virginia age in place by providing transportation to essential services, is being accomplished with a team of volunteer drivers — more than 800 since its inception. Last year, NV Rides facilitated more than 26,000 trips!

NV Rides helps combat the social isolation that a lot of seniors in our community face as some wind up driving together for years and forming wonderful friendships along the way.”

Nurturing the Next Generation

As we strive to perpetuate the vitality and strength of our local community, we create opportunities for connection and education for the next generation.

Quality preschool and infant care services through our Early Childhood Learning Centers (ECLC), complemented by our Chai 5 afterschool program, introduce children to key values, including respect, empathy, and inclusion.

For newbies to Northern Virginia with young children, the J’s Growing Jewish Families (GJF) program employs J-Family Ambassadors to serve as community guides, lowering the barriers to entry for families searching for informal ways to connect Jewishly. Families are welcomed with gift bags of supplies, coffee dates, and specialized outings where parents and their children can relax, recharge, and connect.

One long-time participant, Sheryl Roth, noted that the friendships born from the GJF program are genuine and lasting.

“I wanted to connect with other Jewish moms and meet families with similar values and cultural traditions,” she said. “The women I’ve met have become some of my closest friends.” 

The Pozez JCC’s Promise

From infants to seniors, the Pozez JCC positively impacts our community by creating welcoming and inclusive spaces. Guided by our enduring promise to build community and enrich lives, we craft opportunities for equity and education through inclusion services, volunteerism, and young family programming. 

As this year begins to wrap up, we renew our promise to build a community of impact and action. To ensure we can deliver on this promise, we hope you’ll help us by making a gift today or signing up to volunteer.

Celebrating the Jewish High Holidays at ECLC

Posted on by Faith Plavchan

At the Early Childhood Learning Center’s (ECLC) Fairfax location, the fall Jewish High Holidays—Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Simchat Torah—have infused our classrooms and outdoor spaces with joy, exploration, and learning. Guided by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, our educators have designed engaging activities that enable children to connect deeply with these significant traditions.

One particularly memorable experience featured a visit from Ms. Zina, the Senior Director of Community Impact & Engagement at the Pozez JCC. During her visit, she introduced the children to the captivating sounds of the shofar, allowing them to touch and even blow two beautiful shofars. This interactive session helped the children understand the shofar’s importance in heralding the new year, thereby enhancing the celebration of Rosh Hashanah.

Additionally, we explored the customs of Rosh Hashanah through various sensory activities involving apples. The children were presented with a diverse assortment of apples—red, green, large, and small—and encouraged to observe and interact with them. One child remarked, “It smells like honey!” illustrating the joy of shared experiences and the lasting impressions these rituals create. To further enrich their understanding, educators read books about Rosh Hashanah, emphasizing the symbolism of apples and honey.

Food played a prominent role throughout the holidays, with numerous cooking projects that filled our halls with delightful aromas. The children participated in making round challah, honey cake, fruit salad, vegetable soup, apple sauce, and even apple ice cream.

In another enriching activity, Miss Sarah guided the children to the atelier, where they created watercolor paintings reflecting their interpretations of the apples and shofar. As we prepared for Simchat Torah, she introduced a small Torah to several classrooms in the atelier space. The children were captivated as they examined the Hebrew letters under a microscope, uncovering the intricate details of the text. This hands-on exploration not only sparked their curiosity but also allowed them to express their creativity by crafting their own story scrolls.

All our classrooms enjoyed the beautiful weather as we spent time in the sukkah, where we shook the lulav, smelled the etrog, and shared meals together.

The introduction to these holiday traditions has not only enriched our children’s understanding of the High Holidays but has also fostered a sense of belonging and community. At ECLC, we cherish these moments of celebration and learning, nurturing a love for our traditions that will last a lifetime.

Sukkot: Bringing the spirit of simplicity into your daily life

Posted on by Amy Lummer

Sukkot, beginning just five days after Yom Kippur, is a week-long celebration rooted in the ancient Jewish tradition of dwelling in temporary booths or huts, called Sukkot in Hebrew. These simple structures symbolize the shelters the Israelites lived in during their 40 years of wandering in the desert after escaping slavery in Egypt. Sukkot is one of the three great pilgrimage festivals of the Jewish year.

While the holiday commemorates resilience and faith, it can also offer a lesson in simplicity. During Sukkot, we move our meals and even sleep in the sukkah, a modest, outdoor structure often made of wood or canvas, with branches or leaves for a roof. You don’t haul your entire kitchen outside — you bring just what you need for the meal, intentionally keeping things minimal. In doing so, you create space to pause, to gaze at the stars, and to reconnect with the world. In this simplicity, Sukkot teaches us something valuable: we don’t need everything at our disposal to feel fulfilled. The act of stepping out of our homes and into the sukkah is a reminder to strip back the excess and focus on what matters most.

Just as we streamline our meals during Sukkot, we can simplify other aspects of our lives. Do we need every gadget, every extra task, every item cluttering our minds and homes? Use this Sukkot to take a moment, look up at the sky, and let go of some of the things that weigh us down. Whether it’s decluttering our homes, cutting back on unnecessary commitments, or unplugging from technology, simplifying allows us to create more room for reflection, connection, and joy.

This year, Sukkot started on the evening of October 16th and ends on Shemini Atzeret, October 24th, during this time, as you sit in your sukkah or simply reflect on the holiday’s themes, consider how you can bring the spirit of simplicity into your daily life. What can you leave behind to create more space for what truly nourishes you? Just as the Israelites found shelter in simple booths, we, too, can find meaning and contentment in simplifying our lives.

A huge thank you to J-Family Ambassador Danielle Arthur, whose inspiration and insight sparked the creation of this blog.

Tips to Stay Safe During the High Holidays

Posted on by Laura Katzif

With the High Holidays quickly approaching, many of us are looking forward to this annual time of celebration and togetherness with family and friends.

This year, planning for the Jewish holidays also includes the acknowledgement and shadow cast by the one-year anniversary of the horrific October 7th attacks in Israel and the continued conflict in the Middle East — exacerbated by the confirmation this Shabbat of Hezbollah’s Hassan Nasrallah’s death at the hands of Israeli Defense Forces which is sure to escalate tensions and anxiety at home and abroad. And most acutely, the continuous parade of news stories, social media posts, and emails about incidents targeting Jews and Israelis in North America, with an exponential increase in antisemitic and anti-Zionist behavior.

As a community, we are operating under a heightened threat environment, although let me be clear that there are no known credible threats agains our community at this time. Recently, at a Together and Secure community security training, JShield’s Executive Director Rusty Rosenthal said, “It’s a confluence of events that we wanted to make sure people are thinking of, and aware of security, as they continue to engage in their Jewish life.”

The JCC, synagogues and other Jewish institutions are continually balancing our desire to be a warm, welcoming community with the need for heightened security. The JCC and others have layers of security, some of which are visible and some that are not. The idea is for Jews and others to walk into any one of these places and feel welcomed and safe so they may worship, play, and be together without fear.

So what can you do as an individual or family during this time?

  • Support and follow organizations’ security policies. The most expensive security systems are useless if one person props a door or lets in an unvetted individual.
  • Practice good situational awareness. Be aware of your surroundings whether at home, at work, out in public or at the JCC, shul, or other Jewish location. Know to whom you should report suspicious activity. If you are unsure, call your local police department for guidance.
  • Have a personal and family plan in case of emergency. It’s easy to think about the worst case active threat incident but individuals and families should have plans for all types of emergencies such as fire, medical, severe weather, utility outages, as well as those involving violence.
  • Report incidents to your local police and to JShield using their Incident Report Form.
  • Participate in trainings to further your knowledge and skills. The Pozez JCC and JShield offer a wide array of opportunities including Situational Awareness, De-escalation, Usher/Greeter, Stop the Bleed, and others. If you have questions, contact security@theJ.org.

By practicing these few safety tips, we can be safe and secure during this time and left with an opportunity to celebrate as a community and reflect and mourn those who we have lost. If you have any questions about security, please reach out.

Shana Tova

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

Posted on by Amy Lummer

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

Posted on by Shana Medel

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.”