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.
