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Category: Social Impact

Beyond Camp: 5 ways to stay connected with Horizon Day Camp after summer

Posted on by Shana Medel

“Are we going to camp?”

The camp season may be over, but Matias Zurita, 3, asks his mom this question almost every time they get in the car. When they drive past familiar street signs, Matias will usually point in the direction of Pozez JCC, knowing fun is nearby. He often tells his mom, “No no, this way.”

Little Matias was one of the youngest children to spend his summer days at Horizon Day Camp, a free camp for children with cancer and their siblings. He was diagnosed with liver cancer last year, and since then, has undergone six rounds of chemotherapy and a major surgery. 

For Matias, camp made fun possible again. He could do all of his favorite activities — from swimming to playground fun to dancing — with the help of adaptive equipment and trained professionals. 

“He could forget what he was going through. And he loved every day at camp. I could see that,” said Neshmy, his mom. “From the very first day, as a mom, I knew this was the right place for Matias and for all children battling cancer.”

For many children and their families, Horizon is a magical experience, one that continues with year-round engagement opportunities beyond camp.

These five programs and events offer regular touchpoints to remain involved with Horizon, a community that exists long after summer is over. Each experience is adapted to meet every season and need, ensuring families can face one of their biggest challenges with the support they deserve. 


Go to a family fun day, made safe for children with cancer

Experience the joy and safety of camp with family fun days, monthly happenings made just for Horizon families. To protect immunocompromised children, every program is private, only open to families registered for Horizon Day Camp.

Annual favorites include exploring and experimenting at the Children’s Science Center, where families have the entire, freshly-sanitized museum to themselves. Another is Golden Boot Soccer with Coach Tamir Linhart, who formerly played for Hapoel Tel Aviv. For one day, children run and kick around adaptive, safe balls with Tamir and his team. All players go home with soccer jerseys and trophies.

“So many of our kids and their siblings have to miss parts of childhood because of a compromised immune system,” said Ilana Adler, Assistant Director and Family Support Specialist of Horizon Day Camp at Pozez JCC. “We create activities for them so they can experience life outside of cancer.”

And while children have fun with their friends, parents socialize with one another, often sharing experiences over coffee and snacks. This has been meaningful for Hani Attar, who has two daughters, Julia, 8, and Ayla, 3. His youngest was diagnosed with cancer last year.

“For so many of us, Horizon Day Camp came through when we were stumbling,” Hani said. “They gave us joy and comfort and relief.”

Hani could focus on caring for Ayla knowing Julia was safe at camp, her happy place. She used to tell her dad not to pick her up a minute before the end of the day.

Now, with family fun days, Julia has an opportunity to relive camp. She and her father have been to a number of them, including a movie screening and a wintertime event with crafts and games.

“She loves this camp and this community,” Hani said. “She said, ‘Sign me up every year. I want to go there.’”

Family fun day attendance has been steadily rising each month, at most reaching 40 families. The increase is largely because parents know their children can be in a space with friends without compromising their health. Keep an eye out for details on the next event, which will be Golden Boot Soccer from 10 am-1 pm on Saturday, Oct. 5.

Bring camp fun to your child as they undergo treatment

Horizon on Wheels brings the magic of camp to children undergoing treatment at Children’s National Hospital and L. J. Murphy Children’s Hospital, both of which have top-ranked pediatric oncology units. Patients are as young as 3 and as old as 16. 

Inside a rainbow-colored trunk, wheeled around by staff and volunteers, children get to choose their fun. There are toys, games, and crafts for all ages. Some may build Lego towers or color printouts of their favorite superheroes while others play a game of UNO or do an art project.

These one-on-one activities accomplish three goals: patients have fun, their siblings feel recognized, and their parents get a much-needed reprieve.

Every year, Horizon on Wheels engages more than 6,000 children in 21 hospitals. On their scariest days, there are bright moments of camp-like fun, created by people who care about them.


Participate in our biggest charity walk of the year

Lace up your shoes and walk with purpose alongside 200-some camp families and community members. 

HorizonWALKS is an annual fundraising event featuring a 1-mile lap around National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Every dollar raised helps children with cancer enjoy a summer camp made just for them, meaning all funds go directly to Horizon Day Camp at Pozez JCC.

All are welcome to walk — family, friends, colleagues. Participants can register as individuals or as part of a 5-10-person team. Those who cannot physically be there can become sponsors or make donations. The event also features fun, kid-friendly activities, including face painting, bracelet making, dancing, and games.

“When they see you, they knock you over with these huge hugs because they’re so excited to be around camp people again,” said Joellen Kriss-Broubalow, Director of Horizon Day Camp. “That’s how you know what you’re doing really matters.”

In April, at the third-annual walk, participants raised $133,000, surpassing their fundraising goal by about $7,000. The next event is slated for Sunday, April 27 in National Harbour and is looking to be an even greater success. 

Donate life-saving blood, right here at Pozez JCC

The American Red Cross holds four blood drives per year at Pozez JCC. Many of our donors are regulars, who stick their arms out again and again to help those battling pediatric cancer, among other diagnoses.

Over the past eight months, Red Cross has collected 150 units of blood, saving approximately 450 lives. And just a few weeks ago, at the most recent Pozez JCC blood drive, all 38 donor slots were filled, helping to exceed a goal of acquiring 25 units.

This is a small and important victory, as the Red Cross is witnessing the lowest number of people giving blood in the last 20 years. Cancer patients use nearly a quarter of the blood supply in the entire country, more blood than anyone fighting any other disease. 

Donors of all blood types are critically needed, but especially those with O negative blood. To qualify for whole blood donation, you must:

  • Be in good health
  • Feel well
  • Be at least 16 years of age, with signed parental consent
  • Weigh at least 110 lbs
  • Meet this additional eligibility criteria, which covers medications, medical conditions, traveling to certain countries, and personal history 

The entire donation process, from arrival to departure, takes about one hour. The donation itself is only 8-10 minutes on average. For more information on upcoming blood drives, visit our events page at thej.org/events. 

Enjoy a casino night while supporting children with cancer

For one night only, Pozez JCC transforms into a casino with a cause. Playing table games, eating delicious food, and dancing to music all happen at Casino Night, an opportunity to raise funds for Horizon Day Camp and year-round programs for children with cancer.

All community members are welcome, no matter your level of involvement with Horizon. You can attend or become a sponsor of the next Casino Night, which will be held on Saturday, Nov. 9 at Pozez JCC. More details will be released over the coming weeks.

Impact beyond summer camp

Fun days, blood drives, fundraisers — Horizon Day Camp is more than a summer camp. There are so many creative and meaningful ways for families to remain engaged, and for our entire JCC community to support children with cancer. Every program and event is an opportunity to strengthen parents and their little ones, giving them what they need and deserve. 

Fall Into Action with Volunteer Services: Make Your Mark This Election Season

Posted on by Emily Braley

As the fall elections approach, many of us are looking to fulfill our civic duty and make a meaningful impact. This season presents a unique opportunity to strengthen our democracy and contribute to the greater good. Whether you’re drawn to becoming a pollworker, writing postcards to get out the vote with the Center for Common Ground, or serving in our community, there are many ways to channel your passion into action. Each effort, big or small, plays a role in shaping our communities and ensuring that every voice is heard. Here are some impactful ways you can get involved and make a difference this fall.

National Pollworker Recruitment Day: August 1

Mark your calendars for August 1—National Pollworker Recruitment Day! Pollworkers are essential for ensuring that elections run smoothly and that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their ballot. Your involvement helps uphold the values of democracy and strengthens the foundation of our communal life. Learn more on Wednesday, July 31st at 2pm with JCRC at their “Help JCRC Power the Polls” webinar. Sign up for the webinar here: Help JCRC Power the Polls | Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington (jcouncil.org) Ready to sign up to be a pollworker? Click this link from A More Perfect Union to get started – Power the Polls.

Democracy as a Jewish Value: Getting out the Vote

Democracy is deeply woven into the fabric of Jewish values and tradition. From the biblical principles of justice and communal responsibility to the Talmudic emphasis on the importance of individual participation in communal affairs, Jewish teachings underscore the significance of each person’s role in shaping a just society. Helping to get out the vote is a manifestation of our commitment to justice and communal well-being. This act of outreach aligns with the Jewish principle of tikkun olam, or repairing the world, as it fosters a more inclusive and representative democracy. We will have several opportunities to write postcards to voters this fall including at the Pozez JCC’s open house on Sunday, September 22nd (more details to follow… save the date!) and on Tuesday, October 8th during the day and in the evening. Sign up at volunteer.theJ.org to join us.

Volunteering – Another Expression of Civic Responsibility

Another way to contribute to our vibrant community is to volunteer with us this fall. At the JCC, volunteers contribute to the well-being and cohesion of our community. Volunteers engage in activities that support social services, educational programs, and cultural enrichment across our organization and community. We would love to have you contribute this fall by volunteering with us – from cleaning up a park to making costumes for kids in need, we have something for everyone to contribute! Volunteering is a powerful form of civic engagement this election season.

Join us!

However you choose to volunteer this election season, you’re helping to build a brighter future and a stronger, more connected community. We hope to see you soon! See everything we have to offer by making an account on volunteer.theJ.org.

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.”  

Volunteer Opportunities Abound at the J. Heed the Call.

Posted on by Zina Segal

Just one week ago, we launched Pozez JCC’s Volunteer Services with two service projects and a presentation about the structure of our new program and our Social Impact priorities. In case you missed our presentation, here are a few insights into why we are doing all these amazing things and what is coming next! 

One of my favorite Jewish texts, Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) opens with the statement (Pirkei Avot 1:2): The world stands upon three things: The Torah (learning), Avoda (work, temple service) and Gemilut Hasadim (acts of kindness). At the Pozez JCC, we agree with the sages of the first century CE (not about everything, but at least about this statement). To that end, there are three important pillars to the foundation of Volunteer Services: 

  • Learning. On each volunteer opportunity, we include two types of learning: Service Area learning (what is needed in our area, why is it happening, how can we help to create systematic change?) and Jewish learning (what does Jewish tradition say about this issue, why is performing this particular service is Jewish value?). 
  • Service Projects. Creating impact on our wider community by working together is at the core of what we do. Pozez JCC is an agent of change in building a more diverse, equal, and just society in Northern Virginia. 
  • Building Community. During each event, we will have icebreakers and an opportunity to meaningfully connect with other participants while learning more about the challenge being addressed. We believe that meeting like-minded people and building relationships is imperative to everything we are doing. We are here for people and because of people. In these times, when you can reach almost anyone on the planet, there are still so many people who don’t have someone locally to grab a coffee with within a 15-minute drive. We want more members of our community to feel connected and bonded to their people. By volunteering b’yachad (together), come find your people and become somebody’s person with us! 

These are the principles we keep in mind while creating all our volunteer experiences. Now let’s talk about what is currently on our volunteer menu. There are three priority areas where one can participate: Volunteer Opportunities at the J, One-off Volunteer Events with Partners, and Community Building Opportunities. In future blog posts, we will talk more about volunteer events and community-building opportunities, but today, we will explore the ways you can help at the J. 

With so many programs and events offered by the various departments daily, weekly, monthly, and annually, I’ll bet that many members can’t even imagine how many different opportunities there are to volunteer! If you come to the J for a workout, you might not know that we are also home to the only camp for neurodiverse teens and adults in NoVA. If you are an ECLC parent, you might not know about our amazing Israel shlichut program, and if you are a regular Mah Jongg player at the J, you might not know about our Jewish Family Ambassadors who work throughout NoVA. Becoming a regular volunteer at the J will help you learn more about all the amazing things happening here, help you get to know new people — who are passionate about similar things — and will help the J grow and serve more people.  

Here are areas at the J that need volunteers NOW: 

Administrative and Outreach Positions 

As you can imagine, we have lots of administrative tasks. Covering these needs will help you better understand the work of each program, help us create more effective procedures, and help you meet new people. Opportunities might include helping our membership team conduct surveys, leading tours for prospective members, helping to promote events on social media and building our online community, and helping to organize printed materials.  

Children and Youth 

If you are passionate about working with kids and teens – we have you covered! Some departments that need help in this area are Camp Achva, Horizon Day Camp and Chai 5 (after-school program). Opportunities might include helping Camp Achva to move in and out of Gesher’s campus each summer, creating meaningful experiences for children going through cancer treatment, helping kids foster relationships, and walking kids from their classroom to after-school activities in the gym and pool at the J.  

Disabilities and inclusion  

We are dedicated to building an inclusive community. Our D&I services provide social skills classes, adaptive sports, camp for neurodiverse teens and adults, and programs to help these members build community and friendships. Volunteering in this area will help participants become stronger and more independent and you’ll become more familiar with the needs of this community. 

J-Fit Health Club  

We all love a great workout! And what could be better than meeting other health-minded people by helping them check-in for group exercise classes, answering questions about equipment (once trained) and helping them to find the best machine for their needs! Our J-Fit and aquatics programs have 10 volunteer positions open! Most of them can be combined with your favorite workout while at the J! 

Whether you decide to volunteer for any of our ongoing volunteer positions, come to our one-off volunteer events, or choose to build community in your own neighborhood, we are here to support you and super grateful for your time!  

If you would like to learn more about Volunteer Services, have ideas about ways to give back to the community, or want to meet the people who are helping to fill these needs, Program Manager, Emily Braley (Emily.Braley@theJ.org) and I (Zina.Segal@theJ.org) are happy to treat you to coffee and conversation! 

We look forward to hearing from you and to seeing you giving back to our community! 

Pozez JCC’s Volunteer Services Launches

Posted on by Emily Braley

We are a community of action. As a community, we are committed to repairing the world — starting here in Northern Virginia. When a need is identified, time and time again, our community has shown that it understands the value of working together to make a lasting impact.

To that end, we are proud to announce the launch of Pozez JCC’s Volunteer Services program—inspired by our community’s commitment to the Jewish values of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and Gemilut Hasidim (acts of loving kindness). These are two Jewish values that inspire acts of kindness, service, and social responsibility.

When developing the Volunteer Services program, it was important that its foundation lead with Jewish values to create a program that unites our community and serves our neighbors and the wider world. Volunteers have already been in many programs in the JCC — from our popular NV Rides volunteer driver program to the intergenerational force that comes out every year to help us prep for the Challah Bake. The Volunteer Services program will build on our community’s rich tradition of volunteering and unite us in service — both within the JCC and in our broader community.

The goal of the program is to have something that inspires everyone — every age, every stage and every interest — to get involved and to feel connected to our community and to each other. To that end, there are a wide array of options and entry points to make participating easy and inviting.

Ongoing positions in our buildings and programs.

If you are looking for a regular (or semi-regular) opportunity within the JCC, we have roles in our camps, fitness, Israel engagement, membership, and much more. These roles are a great way to get involved with our community and create deep connections with our members and staff.

Flexible, Periodic Involvement

Looking for periodic opportunities to serve the community? Perhaps as a way to meet people and give back as you are available?  The program offers ongoing, impactful volunteer events planned with a variety of interests and abilities in mind. These events allow people to meet, engage and serve with only a one-day commitment.

All volunteer opportunities are live on volunteer.thej.org. There are currently 30 opportunities listed, including a “choose your own adventure” option for those with a particular passion or interest. Your talents and skills are welcome!

Please take a look at the opportunities and sign up to become part of our database. We want to harness our community’s diversity of skills and interests to make a lasting impact and connect us to one another. We treasure your suggestions and feedback. Contact volunteerservices@theJ.org to share ideas and/or opportunities you’re interested in. Volunteer Services is your home for service at the Pozez JCC. We believe in the power of community, the strength of unity, and the transformative impact of giving back. We look forward to serving with you!

May: Celebrating JAHM & Commemorating The Yoms

Posted on by Shari Berman

When I turn the calendar page to May, I typically think of beautiful flowers, Mother’s Day, and Memorial Day. For Jews, the month of May holds added significance. First, it is Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM), and second, it often contains several important days on the Jewish calendar – what we refer to as The Yoms.  

This May, three “Yoms” take place within ten days of each other…Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day),Yom HaZikron (Israel Memorial Day), and Yom HaAtzmaut (Israel Independence Day) — between May 5th and May 14th. They are even more relevant and poignant this year because of the attack on October 7thwhich left devasting death, injury, and destruction, a horrific hostage situation, and led to war between Israel and Hamas. Going into its 7th month, the war has led to growing antisemitism in the U.S. and around the world.

Focusing on Yom HaShoah, which began at sundown today (Sunday, May 5th) and will continue through sundown on Monday, we take a moment to recognize the six million Jews murdered in the Holocaust by the Nazis and their collaborators, as well as the Jewish resistance that took place in that period. The first official Yom HaShoah commemorations took place in 1951, and the observance of the day was anchored in a law passed by the Israeli Knesset in 1959.

This solemn holiday is marked with observances where names of those who perished in the Holocaust are read, testimonies of Holocaust Survivors are shared, memorial prayers are spoken and special memorial candles – usually yellow candles – are lit. Locally, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington holds an Annual Yom HaShoah Commemoration Program virtually on Zoom. This year’s observance, held this afternoon, was in memory of those lost, in honor of those who survived and their families, andto provide a forum for the community to come together to reflect and strengthen our resolve at a difficult time of unprecedented antisemitism on college campuses. No doubt, it was a meaningful event for many, and reminds us to never forget.

The Adult Department of the Pozez JCC is presenting a virtual educational program in conjunction with Yom HaShoah on Monday, May 6 at 2pm. The program, “Battles Over the Holocaust: Polish-Jewish Memory Wars,” features Dr. Zachary Mazur, Senior Historian at the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews in Warsaw. Join us for this complimentary program to learn more about how Jews and Poles have very different recollections of the events that occurred in Poland during WWII. Click here for more details including registration: https://thej.org/event/battles-over-the-holocaust-polish-jewish-memory-wars-featuring-dr-zachary-mazur/

In addition, the J is offering a very special program made possible by a Federation grant:  Zikaron BaSalon (Memories in the Living Room). Families in Northern Virginia are invited to host a meaningful discussion in their homes any weekend during the month of May. Each Zikaron BaSalon gathering will be unique – reflecting diverse perspectives and personal reflections on the Holocaust and its lessons. It is an excellent opportunity to educate family, friends, and neighbors on the Holocaust. For more information, click here.

Judaism teaches us to constantly learn and question, as well as to live an ethical life that is led by our shared values (middot). One value that comes to my mind daily is gratitude (Hakarat HaTov). As I was thinking of a positive way to end this somewhat somber blog, I came across an email from Chai Mitzvah, an organization that promotes Jewish community and learning. Their newsletter, Chai-lites, reminded me that expressing the middah of gratitude does not mean ignoring that there is pain and hardship in the world. It means working hard and making a daily effort to see that along with the difficulty there is good in life and in history that is worth appreciating. So, during Jewish American Heritage Month, let’s celebrate the many accomplishments of Jews in the US and say, “L’Chayim” – to life!

Inclusion programs support growth for people with disabilities

Posted on by Shana Medel

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.”

Building Ramps… Not Stairs

Posted on by Lauren Panozzo

If you told me that when I graduated with a degree in social work, that I would be working in the camp field, specifically at an inclusive camp, I would never have believed you.

Hi! My name is Lauren, and I work as Camp Achva’s Inclusion and Belonging Coordinator. My role has two interrelated sides – firstly, by implementing supports for the mental, emotional, social and spiritual health of every camper, staff member, and family that is a part of the Camp Achva community, and secondly, by intentionally creating a safe environment for everyone to be their most authentic self.

I bring to this work a personal perspective on sticking out, the challenges of finding spaces I belong in, and contributing to causes bigger than myself, because, like so many in our community, I am neurodiverse.

Summer camp was my place to just be…me. To show up, and be welcomed fully for who I am, not what I could or could not do. It was a space for me to move away from a diagnosis and be seen for more than my ability level.

I am so grateful that I am in a role where I get to actively help create that space for another generation of campers & staff. It is through working hand in hand with the families and individuals that I, and the Camp Achva team, serve together to create individual success plans – at Camp Achva we believe in people over programming and connection before content. We live that ideal by adjusting our entire program for the one, to better the whole – which is inspired by a training opportunity our team was a part of that talked about their belief in building a ramp instead of stairs. Everyone can use a ramp, whereas only some can use the stairs. There has been a lot of exciting work from the Camp Achva team as we prepare for our best summer yet!

In a practical example of this work, our team has been discussing the length of our activities and how time affects learning outcomes and skill development. Our team has been discussing whether we should move from 30-minute activities to 35- or 40-minute activities. We are looking to adequately balance the need for an activity time length that holds camper and staff’s attention for duration and the number of activities everyone experiences in a day, with giving enough time to build skills and explicitly engage in conversations about what campers are learning. We see benefits of both and are continuing to weigh the pros and cons of each side.

We are working to improve our lunch programming as well – this is a time our campers and staff have given us feedback about, and so we are examining how to make lunch more like a ramp than the stairs it currently feels like to many. Lunch can be overwhelming! To some of our community, lunch feels loud, unstructured, and socially uncomfortable. To others, they feel perfectly in place, with lunch feeling structured and comforting. Our team is working on providing a structure that meets everyone’s needs with ideas from – camp trivia to weather reports, conversation starters to jokes, riddles, and word puzzles.

I am excited to continue these discussions and many others I get to be a part of through my work as the Inclusion & Belonging Coordinator of Camp Achva. I am so grateful for the work that I do. In this past year working with Camp Achva and for the Pozez JCC, I have learned that inclusion is not a choice, it is a lifestyle. I am working to make all the spaces that I am a part of inclusive.

While written in a different context, a quote that I have come to appreciate, rely on, and sums up my inclusion and belonging work is from Ijeoma Oluo: “every time you go through something, and it’s easy for you, look around and say ‘Who is this not easy for? And what can I do to dismantle that system?’”

Free summer camp makes memories for children with cancer and their siblings

Posted on by Shana Medel

For many children battling cancer, hearing “no” is a norm. No soccer or dance or playground fun with others — activities that can harm an already fragile body. But for six weeks every summer, at a camp designed to run on “yes,” children get to have fun in a safe environment, made just for them.

Horizon Day Camp is the only free day camp for 3 ½ to 16 year olds with pediatric cancer and their siblings. The camp opened in 2022, borne of a partnership between Pozez JCC and Sunrise Association Day Camps, which has been running camps and other programs for children with cancer since 2006.

“For our JCC, this is a major social impact program that fills a gap and a need for families in the D.C. metro area,” said Jessica Adams, senior director of development.

Because campers are undergoing treatment, they attend as often as they can, whenever they can. Every day of camp is created to stand alone, ensuring children never feel as if they missed something.

Camp Director Joellen Kriss-Broubalow said Horizon Day Camp is where “every kid can be a kid.” Many of her campers, siblings included, have been forced to grow up too soon. Camp is an opportunity for them to be their own person, outside of the bubble that cancer so often silos them into. 

“We are a camp for kids with cancer, but we are not a cancer camp,” Kriss-Broubalow said. “Cancer is something these kids have, not who they are. We take all of the necessary steps to make sure cancer is not at the center of everything we do.”

And camp starts on the bus, a free service that brings children to and from Pozez JCC. Then comes the best part of camp: activities. Soft sports balls and other adaptive equipment help children fully participate. Some play soccer or take swim lessons. Others make friendship bracelets or do science experiments. 

Specially trained counselors like Bradley Olsen, 18, are there every step of the way. A cancer survivor himself, Olsen pulls from his own experiences to offer hope, compassion and of course, joy.

“Seeing them share laughter, form bonds and create lasting memories is so special,” Olsen said. “Being able to witness these moments and provide a safe, supportive space for them to simply be themselves is truly a gift.”

Alana Cole, another 18-year-old counselor, said, “It’s easy to say that I teach the kids, but in truth, they teach me. The most meaningful part of my work is seeing all of them smile and have fun.”

This June, staff are expecting to welcome their largest group of campers. Horizon Day Camp, which started with 44 children and grew to accomodate nearly 100, already has 48 registrants for this summer. Roughly 20 of them are returning campers.

The driving force: parents know their little ones are in good hands. There is on-site medical support, which includes a team of nurses supervised by a pediatric oncologist. 

With peace of mind, parents can take quiet moments for themselves. Last summer, while their children were at camp, one couple took a vacation day and went to the movies. Another said they finally had time to clean their house, which had been in disarray since their child started cancer treatment.

“I can feel the relief from our parents,” Kriss-Broubalow said. “Everything is being taken care of. Kids are so excited to come to camp every day, and parents haven’t seen their kids this excited in a long time.”

One of those parents is Emily McGilton, whose daughter Brianna has neuroblastoma, a cancer that develops from immature nerve cells. For Brianna, rounds of treatment disrupted her year, pulling her from school and friends. 

Horizon Day Camp was a bright spot.

Brianna, 4, would come home and excitedly recap her days swimming and crafting. Knowing her daughter was having fun, and finding some normalcy in abnormal times, McGilton began to worry less.

“Horizon Day Camp encouraged me to let go a little bit and allow others to help me care for my child,” McGilton said. “I slowly adjusted with the help of her encouraging staff and her big smiles every day at drop off and pick up. She can’t wait to go back.” 

Even though camp is six-weeks long, engagement is year round. Horizon on Wheels brings the magic of camp to children undergoing treatment in hospitals. There are also family fun days, which have included adaptive sports and exclusive museum visits to keep up relationships with camp families. 

The next happening: Horizon Walk. This annual fundraising event, scheduled for April 14, features a 1-mile walk around National Harbor. Attendees include camp families and other members of the community, drawing a crowd of close to 250. 

“When they see you, they knock you over with these huge hugs because they’re so excited to be around camp people again,” Kriss-Broubalow said. “That’s how you know what you’re doing really matters.”

For Kriss-Broubalow, who is a teacher during the school year, camp fills her soul during the summer and all year round.

“Teachers are seed planters. We usually don’t get to see the flowers,” Kriss-Broubalow said. “But at camp, you get to see the flowers. It’s magic.”

You can participate in our annual Horizon Walk by completing this registration form.

Celebrating Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month

Posted on by Alison Pasternak

February is Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM or JDAAIM). This year, JDAIM is in its 15th year of existence. It was started to raise awareness and ensure that Jews with disabilities are valued and included in all aspects of Jewish life. As you may be aware, the Disability community is the largest minority group, and estimated to be about 15% of the world population. It is also estimated that 1 in 4 adults in the United States will have a disability at some point during their life. This is a group that cannot and should not be ignored. The Disability community needs to be accepted and included not just in February, but every day of the year.

As part of our celebration of JDAIM, the Pozez JCC and the organization MyZuzah, whose mission is to put a mezuzah on the front door of every Jewish home in the world, are excited to be installing a mezuzah with braille on its face. The mezuzah was designed by local artist, Julie Tonti.

This past week, I listened to a talk by Rabbi Julia Watts Belser about her book, Loving Our Bones: Disability Wisdom and the Spiritual Subversiveness of Knowing Ourselves Whole. She talked about how she is often asked what Jewish tradition says about disability. She offers that we flip the question to ask what disability can offer to Jewish wisdom. Her answer is the message that there is not only one way to move through the world and not only one way of thinking. Rabbi Belser defined ableism as the policies, norms, attitudes, and practices that oppress people assumed to be disabled. She said that ableism runs in conjunction with the idea of productivity culture, where we are only as good as our latest accomplishment. Her idea is that the practice of honoring Shabbat, and taking a day of rest, is the antidote to this form of ableism. This promotes the idea of your value for who you are rather than for what you do.

On this 15th anniversary of JDAIM, it is most appropriate to honor the memory of Judy Heumann just before the occasion of her first yahrzeit. She was an international leader in the Disability Rights Movement who fought for Jewish disability access and for the rights and dignity of all disabled people. Many more people came to know about her life through the documentary movie Crip Camp. When talking about the 504 protests (referring to section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities), shown in the movie, Judy said that they were successful because they did not focus on how they were different, but on their collective purpose. They focused on the community and the humanity in each other. A wonderful quote from Judy Heumann’s memoir Being Heumann is, “I was who I was meant to be. If you were to acquire a disability tomorrow, it would be a change, but I can tell you this: it wouldn’t have to be a tragedy. We are all human. Why do we see disability differently from any other aspect of being human?”


Helpful JDAIM Resources 

“What Do You Pray For?” A series of short interviews with Jews with disabilities.
https://vimeo.com/showcase/8327250

A sneak peek and conversation about the upcoming film THIRTEEN. The film is based on a true story of a mother fighting to have a Bat Mitzvah for her disabled and terminally ill daughter. The discussion will center around the intersection of ableism and antisemitism and the impact in Jewish communities.
Registration required. Click here.

Resisting Ableism and Cultivating Access: Disability and Jewish Social Justice. Registration is required. Please click here to register. 

JDAIM Events: https://jcca.org/jewish-disability-month-events/