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Category: Volunteer

1,000 Days of Loving-Kindness and Repairing the World 

Posted on by Zina Segal

In one month, I will mark 1,000 days since joining the Pozez JCC team. A recent memoir writing workshop (the next is April 20th) taught me a technique to reflect on a long-term connection to a space by gathering impressions of people and interactions into a single, representative day.  

While the following day is fictional, the characters are real. If you recognize one of the volunteers mentioned below, please send them this blog and thank them for their dedication to Jewish community and values.  

Morning Impressions 

It’s a chilly February morning. In the parking lot, I spot Lisa exiting the building. By the time I’ve arrived, she has already finished a Cardio Sculpt class, discussed promoting the Interfaith Comedy Show, and shared insights on the Parasha Posters in the gallery. I want to have Lisa’s energy when I grow up. 

After unloading soccer gates and beeswax sheets from my car—standard gear for a Jewish professional preparing for Taste of Israel and Women’s Wisdom — I run into Karen. Her enthusiasm is infectious as she shares ideas for the Women’s Social Impact group and her excitement for the upcoming Adult Engagement trip. 

Inside, I wave to another Lisa at the front desk and Jordi at security. In the lobby, I find Paula and Joshua, our special interest group enthusiasts, sharing a laugh over coffee. Paula, a lead volunteer of the book club, proudly shows off the coming year’s book list, while Joshua recounts a spirited debate from the News in Review Round Table. 

The Midday Hustle 

Finally at my desk, I find registrations for the Jewish Fantasy concert is rocking, and my inbox is full of gratitude for the recent Klezmer performance. Mike, one of our stellar NVRides volunteers, sent me an email about the show. Mike seems to have more than 24 hours in a day; between pickleball clinics, driving seniors to appointments, and sitting on multiple committees, he even found time to drop off toy cars for the kids at our NVRides recruitment table (with logos handmade on each car!). 

By afternoon, I’m in the multifunctional mailroom warming up lunch in the microwave. I chat with Tracy, a J-Fit trainer and dedicated NVRides driver. She reflects on how she started volunteering six years ago to help others get to medical appointments. She never expected the profound joy and connection the riders would bring to her own life. 

Planning for Impact 

Later, I meet with Amy (Director of Partnerships and Family Engagement) to plan Good Deeds Day on April 12th. We’re organizing hands-on projects for all ages: 

  • For neighbors: Wrapping silverware for shelters or making flowers for seniors. 
  • For kids: Assembling snack packs for local students. 
  • For community: Sorting kosher food for Yad Yehuda. 
  • For pets: Crafting recycled toys for local animals. 

During the meeting, Megan, a volunteer who jumped right into the DMV community upon moving here, texts to say she’s coming to Good Deeds Day. Amy and I wrap up by discussing the community garden; our volunteer Michelle is already asking for the schedule. Whether it’s planting veggies, baking challah, or joining family programs, Michelle always shows up. 

Closing the Day 

As I head out, I greet Abby and her husband. She’s off to improv class while he heads to a board meeting. Beyond her great humor, for years, Abby has been our champion breakfast cook for Hypothermia Prevention. 

Driving home, I feel incredibly lucky. I spend my day doing amazing, meaningful things, surrounded by caring, thoughtful, and fun people — and I also have a salary!  Our community is a living example of gmilut hasadim (acts of loving-kindness) and tikkun olam (repairing the world). Our volunteers come for the impact, but they stay for the community. 

Join us — become a volunteer at the Pozez JCC. 

How saying ‘yes’ makes a difference to Sunrise families facing pediatric cancer 

Posted on by Melanie Bomberg

Last weekend, the Pozez JCC and Sunrise Day Camp – Greater Washington answered with a resounding “yes!” to our campers’ most-asked question: “Can we have more camp?” 

The Camp YES Day event, one of Sunrise’s monthly Family Fun Day activities, brought back that magic summer feeling with a chance to revisit everyone’s favorite camp activities outside of the camp season. 

The day was all about letting campers do the things they love most. They got to swim, participate in STEAM activities and arts and crafts, take center stage at drama class, and reunite with their camp friends. Our campers are a mix of kids facing cancer, survivors, and their siblings, but at Sunrise Day Camp, they’re all just kids having fun. 

Camp YES Day was a slice of camp with one important twist. Parents were welcome to attend and join the activities with their families. This Family Fun Day was our most attended yet, with 65 participants representing 16 families and 17 dedicated staff members coming together for a day filled with laughter, connection, and unforgettable camp fun. 

When they weren’t busy enjoying special activities with their kids, parents shared the impact the various Sunrise programs have had on their families. These conversations reminded us that the impact of Sunrise extends beyond the campers themselves — it touches entire families. 

One family shared how the COVID pandemic felt doubly isolating when one of their sons was diagnosed with cancer and long hospital stays separated the two boys during treatments. During those difficult days, Sunrise on Wheels — Sunrise’s in-hospital program — gave the family something to look forward to, as the team brought toys, games, and fun directly to the hospital. That summer, Sunrise Day Camp brought the boys back together, while also bringing joy and normalcy back into their lives. 

When asked to describe Sunrise in just one word, parents responded with “blessing,” “connection,” “belonging,” “community,” “hope,” “home,” and “joy.” Each word reflected a different experience, but together they painted a powerful picture of what Sunrise means to the families we serve.  

What we heard from families on Camp YES Day is that Sunrise is more than a camp. It’s a source of hope during one of the most difficult periods of their lives. Sunrise Day Camp continues to be a place where entire families feel connected — to other families who understand the realities of having a child with cancer, to caring staff, and to a community that surrounds them with encouragement and support. 

Events like Camp YES Day also serve as an important reminder that programs like Sunrise exist because of the generosity of our community. All Sunrise programs, including our six-week summer day camp, Family Fun Days, and Sunrise on Wheels hospital programming, are offered completely free of charge. We can’t create that magic alone. 

As we look ahead to our fifth summer, Sunrise Day Camp – Greater Washington invites the larger community to come together to support our programs. Because when we say “yes” to children with cancer and their siblings, incredible things happen: joy returns, friendships grow, and families find a place where they truly belong.  

Say “yes” today and support Sunrise Day Camp. DONATE NOW 

Warm Hearts, Cold Nights: Supporting NoVa Hypothermia Prevention

Posted on by Shari Berman

How do a dozen or more women with hundreds of plastic grocery bags make an impact on Fairfax County’s unhoused community? It happens when the Pozez JCC’s Women’s Social Impact Group (WSIG) joins forces with FACETS, a nonprofit that supports Northern Virginians facing poverty and homelessness, for Hypothermia Prevention Week. 

The WSIG is an amazing group of women of all ages and stages who want to make the world a better place. The group has tackled important issues such as hunger, homelessness, voting rights, and environmental change. Since the group’s inception in 2020, dedicated women have donated non-perishable food items, toiletries, women’s clothing, books, puzzles, and scarves to worthy organizations; worked at the Food for Others food pantry; helped build a community garden; and raised funds for Sunrise Day Camp. 

Most impressive among these activities is the work the WSIG (and the larger JCC volunteer network) does to support FACETS’ Hypothermia Prevention Week at Bethlehem Lutheran Church each year. During this week, community members can come to the church for meals, entertainment, services, and a warm place to sleep during one of the colder weeks of the year.  

This year’s Hypothermia Prevention Week took place January 11-18. The Pozez JCC and the WSIG partnered with Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Living Savior Lutheran Church, Kids Give Back, and Congregation Olam Tikvah to successfully feed and house 50 guests and FACETS staff during a very chilly week. A significant donation by the Jay Meyerson Book Club also supported our efforts. 

The JCC was responsible for two full days of meals, serving, and entertainment. For the first time, the J organized two “Gather and Give Communal Cooking Events” to prepare lunch sandwiches and a complete dinner meal. Both mornings, volunteers came to the church to serve a hot breakfast of pancakes and sent guests out for the day with a brown bag lunch. Additional volunteers provided delicious desserts and served dinner each evening to grateful guests. 

Guests were entertained by a bingo game called by Olam Tikvah volunteers and a concert by Makheylah, the JCC Community Choir. A local hairdresser provided haircuts to the visitors. 

“The team of volunteers are dedicated and enthusiastic and work hard to ensure that the guests are well taken care of and…that the logistics go smoothly,” one volunteer told me.  “The guests enjoyed bingo with some assisting others for whom English was not their first language. I thoroughly enjoy helping with this project and intend to continue in the foreseeable future.” 

More than 90 volunteers spent 563 hours making Hypothermia Prevention Week possible. The cost to rent the hall and provide food, gift cards, and supplies totaled close to $15,000. It truly takes a village to have a successful Hypothermia Prevention Week. 

So where do the grocery bags come in? One of the WSIG’s ongoing projects is making “plarn” (plastic yarn) bedrolls for members of the unhoused community. Each 6-foot bedroll (ie, a sleeping mat) is made from 700 grocery store bags. It is a perfect example of bettering the environment by repurposing these bags into lightweight cushions for people living outdoors. A volunteer delivers these crocheted mats to members of the unhoused community, one at a time, as they are completed.   

What a great village we are privileged to be part of, helping so many people in need. If you’d like to support the Pozez JCC’s social action efforts, you can do so in several ways. 

  • Attend the Women’s Social Impact Group’s monthly meetings and get involved with its community service projects. Turn your passion into purpose. 
  • Volunteer to make bedrolls for our unhoused neighbors – no experience needed. 

The Road to Connection: How NV Rides steers volunteerism in NoVA Jewish community

Posted on by Dionna Dash

When Mike Perel retired from his career in highway safety research, he didn’t walk away from the road. He simply changed his route. 

Now, instead of studying drivers, he’s behind the wheel himself as a volunteer with the J’s NV Rides program, a volunteer transportation network offering rides, connection, and dignity to older adults who can no longer drive.

As part of the J’s community impact work, NV Rides pairs older adults, mostly in their 70s-80s, with community members willing to give them a lift. Passengers are often driven to doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and grocery stores. The impact of each ride extends far beyond mileage.

“Some of the riders have really fascinating backgrounds,” Mike shares. “One that stands out is a 100-year-old World War II veteran. His story was incredible. And he was just so grateful for a simple ride. Those moments stay with you. They change you.”

The J started NV Rides in 2014, recognizing how many older adults in Northern Virginia were facing mobility challenges. Since then, our network has grown across four counties, powered by hundreds of volunteers who give their time, and their hearts, to others.

In the past fiscal year alone, our volunteers provided 22,284 services (including rides, visits, and deliveries), served 1,105 older adults, and gave 23,230 hours of their time, driving 211,369 miles — the equivalent of circling the Earth more than eight times! We even helped fund 240 taxi rides for clients needing extra support.

We don’t do this work alone. NV Rides thrives through partnerships with incredible local organizations — nonprofits, faith communities, and service groups — like the Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke, which provided more than 2,400 rides last year, averaging over 200 rides each month. Their Executive Director, Beth Kilgore-Robinson, credits us with making that scale possible.

“Without the support from Pozez JCC, we wouldn’t be able to coordinate as many rides as we do,” she says. “It’s a game-changer for a small nonprofit like ours.”

Beth, who often volunteers as a driver herself, emphasizes that a lack of transportation often results in limited access to healthcare.

“By training, I’m a social worker. I’ve seen what happens when someone has basic insurance but no way to get to a doctor or a dentist or even the grocery store,” she explains. “Transportation is a part of healthcare. Without it, people lose access to medical care, socialization, and even basic necessities. NV Rides fills that gap.”

That connection is what drives us, too. 

“It goes way beyond actual driving,” says Zina Segal, our senior director of community impact and engagement. “The rides get seniors to where they need to go. But the connections between riders and drivers are what make this program truly transformative. Volunteers often tell us how much it fills them up, how much it means to be part of something bigger.”

Behind every mile, there’s a web of care and coordination that keeps NV Rides moving. At the J, we provide funding, support, and scheduling software that helps volunteers choose rides that fit their time, distance, and comfort level. This flexibility allows people like Mike and Beth to help when they can and to build real relationships with the people they serve.

“We built our system to empower our volunteers,” says Elena Alergant, our NV Rides manager. “They can drive once a month or five times a week. Some even request the same riders because they’ve become friends. There’s one volunteer who always asks to be paired with a specific older woman, and now they go grocery shopping and have lunch together. It’s beautiful.”

The support that the J provides to partners like the Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke extends far beyond the software.

“Elena is incredibly helpful,” Beth says. “She represented us at a volunteer fair when I couldn’t attend, and when we hosted a dementia training for all our volunteers, Elena arranged for us to use space at the JCC at no cost. We’re truly grateful to Elena and the Pozez JCC for everything they do.”

For Elena, the work is personal.

“When I moved here from Moscow 10 years ago, I didn’t drive,” she says. “I was homebound. It was isolating. And I know how life-changing it is when someone offers you a ride. When I finally got a car, it was like the world opened up. That’s what we’re doing here: we’re opening the world up for older adults again.”

This kind of deeply personal, values-driven work is no accident. In 2022, we began implementing a strategic plan at the J to expand social impact through volunteerism. The philosophy behind it is grounded in tikkun olam, the Jewish principle of “repairing the world.”

This year alone, volunteers of the J’s Volunteer Services logged 3,413 hours.

“Every volunteer opportunity we offer includes space for reflection and learning,” Zina explains. “If someone is volunteering at a food bank, we talk about food insecurity. If they’re driving for NV Rides, we talk about aging, transportation barriers, and dignity. And always, we connect it back to Jewish values, to why this work matters not just to the community, but to the soul.”

For Mike Perel, it all comes back to one powerful truth: losing the ability to drive is one of the most devastating losses an older adult can experience.

“When I was working in highway safety research, I often heard that doctors found it harder to tell patients they had to stop driving than to tell them they had cancer,” he recalls. “That’s how much driving is tied to our independence. The Pozez JCC’s NV Rides program gives people some of that independence back, and I’m grateful I get to be part of it.”

As shared by many of our NV Rides volunteers, it is clear how effortlessly they are able to gift independence to someone in need. The simple act of offering a ride is not just providing transportation, but offering dignity, connection, and a moment of shared community. This generous, low-effort exchange transforms a logistical trip into a profound act of service, proving that the simplest gestures can carry the deepest meaning.

To learn more about giving the gift of mobility and becoming a volunteer driver, visit https://thej.org/volunteer/volunteer-ride-program.

The Jewish Value of Swimming: Life Lessons from the Pool at Pozez JCC

Posted on by Dionna Dash

Swimming might seem like a simple childhood skill, a rite of passage for summer days and poolside fun. But in Jewish tradition, swimming is much deeper. 

The Talmud instructs that a parent must teach their child to swim, placing this life skill alongside other essential teachings, like Torah study and learning a trade. Why? Because the ability to swim can save a life, and in Judaism, preserving life, or Pikuach Nefesh, is among the highest commandments.

This life-saving mindset is at the heart of the J’s Aquatics Department, run by Ivanna Washington. From preschoolers learning to float, to adaptive lessons for children with different needs, to teens building stamina on the developmental swim team, our pool is a place of empowerment.

Rachael Neal, Aquatics Coordinator, sees swimming as a way to build confidence and resilience.

“I teach a lot of the kids that are very nervous about swimming,” she says. “But after a few weeks, they’re going underwater, they’re comfortable. They go from screaming to smiling.”

Rachael teaches group and private swim lessons, including sessions for children in the J’s Early Childhood Learning Center, which mostly focus on basic safety: what to do if you fall in, how to get to the wall, and how to float.

She recalls one student, a 4-year-old girl who once clung to the pool’s edge in fear.

“She used to scream and didn’t want to touch the water,” she explains. “Now she swims to the wall and goes underwater. And when something scares her, I remind her that I’m here to keep her safe.”

That safety-first, child-led approach has made a difference for Michaela and her daughter Maya, who has been taking lessons with Rachael for over six months.

“Maya started out not even wanting to go near the water,” Michaela says. “Now she loves swimming. Just this past Sunday, she dove down to get rings off the pool floor. The J has really respected her timeline and personality.”

For Maya, the experience has gone beyond water safety.

“She’s learning that just because something is hard doesn’t mean it can’t be joyful,” her mother reflects. “The J’s swim lessons teach determination, resilience, and how to enjoy the journey.”

This mix of structure and sensitivity also plays out in the J’s developmental swim team, open to kids ages 6 to 15. This non-competitive program helps young swimmers refine their strokes and build endurance.

“It’s a great way for kids to experience teamwork and improve at their own pace,” Rachael says.

And the J’s aquatics offerings aren’t just for preschoolers and school-age kids. There are infant-parent swim classes that build water comfort and strengthen bonds, and adult group lessons for those learning later in life. The center also offers adaptive swim programs tailored to individuals with disabilities, ensuring every swimmer is met where they are.

Volunteers like Rem Turatbekov, a high school senior who’s headed to Harvard this fall, where he’ll be joining their collegiate diving team, bring additional expertise and heart to the pool deck. As a competitive diver and student, Rem approaches swim instruction with the same thoughtful discipline he uses in his own sport. 

“Diving is very mental,” he explains. “You have to be aware of your body and make constant corrections. And honestly, that mindset helps in school, too. You figure out what you don’t know, and then focus on improving it.”

That idea of continuous, mindful progress informs his teaching philosophy.

“I make sure to teach the kids in a progressive manner,” he says. “Meaning if they’re not able to do something right now, I’ll see what ways I can make sure they’re mentally ready or what drills I can do to make sure they’re physically ready for the skill that they’re going to learn.”

His patient, skill-building approach creates stronger swimmers and more resilient kids, helping them keep their heads above water.

“Hopefully, they remember this sort of teaching for their whole lives,” Rem adds. “That if something seems hard at first, it doesn’t mean they can’t do it, it just means they need the right support and the right steps to get there.”

The J’s aquatics center also plays a vital role beyond recreation and education. The Fairfax County Emergency Medical Services staff regularly trains in the pool to maintain their water rescue certifications, building readiness for real-life emergencies.

“It’s a mutually beneficial relationship,” says Andrew Klock, Director of Fitness. “They train here, but they also relax here. They grab coffee, exercise, connect. It’s a growing partnership.”

Andrew sees the pool as a metaphor for navigating life.

“Our aquatics program gives people the literal tools to swim, but also the figurative ones: discipline, community, resilience. Nobody can swim forever alone. But with support, with lifelines, we float longer.”

Teaching a child to swim isn’t just about paddling to the pool’s edge. It’s about instilling independence, capability, and the strength to face life’s choppy waters. That’s the value that the J brings to every lesson, anchored in the belief that teaching a child to swim is, truly, a mitzvah.

MLK Jr., Pozez JCC, and the Power of Service

Posted on by Emily Braley

As we celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., we have the chance to reflect on the connection between his teachings on equality, compassion, and the power of service and the Jewish values we embody through service. They align closely with the Jewish tradition of gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness), which encourage us to serve others selflessly. When the Volunteer Services team were identifying Jewish values that would inform our social impact work, we wanted to emphasize tangible action to improve the world including the value of tzedakah (giving). Both King’s life and Jewish teachings highlight that we are all responsible for one another, and through collective action, we can build a more just and equitable society.  

It reminds me of the quote from Rabbi Hillel the Elder, “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?” The quote emphasizes the importance of self-care while also highlighting the responsibility to contribute to something larger than oneself. It’s through everyday acts of kindness and volunteerism that we honor Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy and continue to work toward a better community for all. 

The Volunteer Services program at the Pozez JCC is a testament to the power of service to create connection, inspire kindness, and strengthen Jewish identity. Our programs combine meaningful action and Jewish learning to transform how individuals engage with our community – and with Judaism itself. We are dedicated to driving meaningful change through our social impact priorities. From advancing disability inclusion to addressing food insecurity and the needs of the unhoused, combatting antisemitism, promoting democracy and social justice, and tackling environmental and climate challenges, we offer volunteer opportunities that empower you to create real impact. 

One such opportunity is coming up on Sunday, January 26th when we are hosting a special event to honor MLK Jr.’s legacy through volunteerism. This event provides opportunities for people of all ages to come together and contribute to meaningful projects and celebrate his messages of service and compassion.   

The program begins at 10am when families with young children are invited to donate new pajamas, to help children and teens in need*, and come together for a fun and engaging performance by magician, Drew Blue Shoes. The show will culminate with an opportunity to write cards for the pajama recipients and sort the pajamas for distribution. Admission includes a pizza lunch to enjoy together! This activity combines fun and purpose, showing our young volunteers the power of giving while having a good time.  

At 11:00 AM, adults are invited to come to the J and choose between two impactful service projects: building garden boxes for our new JCC community garden or making fleece blankets for hospice patients. We will wrap the event by eating and socializing together over lunch at 12:30pm.  

Both programs are about coming together, making an impact, and honoring the spirit of service.  

Through strong community interest and support, and partnerships with area organizations and agencies, the Volunteer Services program crafts opportunities that allow you to make a difference in the areas you’re passionate about. Whether you’re assisting individuals in need, advocating for social change, or fostering inclusion, your time and talents can help build a stronger, more compassionate community. If you’d like more information, please visit volunteer.theJ.org, or contact volunteer@theJ.org. 

*All collected pajamas will be shared with three wonderful organizations: Yad Leah in Israel, Lorton Community Action Center just minutes from the J, and Sunrise on Wheels, which brings joy to children undergoing cancer treatment with camp-like activities held in Children’s National and Inova L. J. Murphy Children’s Hospital.  

Body, Mind, Heart, Spirit: Finding Balance at the J

Posted on by Dionna Dash

Retirement brought unexpected joys for member, Abby Potash, including a renewed focus on her own well-being. For her, discovering the Pozez JCC was a turning point as she experienced our holistic approach to well-being — enriching the intellectual, physical, and spiritual lives of our members.

Abby says her life began in her 70s. She retired after 23 years of running a volunteer support network at The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, got engaged and then married, and found a welcoming, supportive community here at the J.

It all started about two and a half years ago, when she first moved to North Springfield and was looking for a way to get involved in the community. After discovering the J, she explored many of our program offerings, quickly joining the social impact initiatives that were so reminiscent of the volunteer work she’d built her career on.

Then a few months ago, Abby challenged herself to take a step that truly pushed her out of her comfort zone: she hired a personal trainer from our J-Fit Health Club team.

Thinking about taking the leap, she said, “I hadn’t really exercised for years, and I was hesitant to go back. But the atmosphere at the J is very different from a gym. I didn’t feel self-conscious at all being there and seeing other people my age also working out was very motivational.”

Abby worked with our trainer Risa for a few months leading up to her wedding last September, and has maintained the relationship since, fueled by her wellness goals.

She shared, “I was diagnosed with diabetes, so I needed to exercise more to lower my sugar and I have a 2-year-old granddaughter who I want to be able to carry without a problem. I also wanted to look good for my wedding in September. I finally have the time to take better care of myself and I’m taking advantage of that. Risa did a great job with really giving me confidence and supporting me, when you feel stronger physically, you also feel stronger emotionally. And I felt empowered.”

Abby’s experience exemplifies one of Pozez JCC’s goals: to support all aspects of health holistically, for people of all ages.

To that end, our fitness director, Andrew Klock shared, “We want to continue to focus on developing the whole self. We want to take more of an active effort in creating programming that focuses on mental wellness, active recovery, and everything else that goes into general health like nutrition, stress relief, and sleep habits.”

Outside of personal training, the J has many other fitness offerings, like our indoor and outdoor gyms, basketball/pickleball courts, heated indoor pool, and group classes that welcome and accommodate people of all ages and fitness levels. These options are augmented by specialized classes, like a fall prevention workshop to improve balance for adults, and after school sports programming, to inspire in children a passion for movement and establishing healthy habits.

By pairing her fitness accomplishments with opportunities from the J’s adult enrichment department, Abby keeps her mind sharp and her social calendar full.

“I used to work seven days a week for long hours, and I didn’t have time for anything social at all,” she said. “So being in an environment like the J where I can be with like-minded people and have that comradery is so important to me.”

Often working with the fitness department, our adult enrichment department offers a wide range of programmatic efforts that provide education and social connection for adults — whether they’re middle-aged professionals searching for new hobbies, empty-nesters looking to make more friends in the community, or older adults deciding how to spend their time post-retirement.

“When people get older, they often get lonely,” commented Shari Berman, our adult enrichment director. “Their community shrinks. So giving people that opportunity to stimulate their brain and stimulate their body and stimulate relationships, is so important for their health.”

To emphasize the importance of building community, the J recently hosted an interactive event that brought the community together to watch “Join or Die,” a film that explores the loneliness epidemic and its surprising impact on our well-being. After the screening, a distinguished panel helped shed further light on how connecting with others through social clubs and community involvement can help us thrive. The evening was a reminder of the power of human connection and the importance of building strong, supportive networks.

Abby’s story is a testament to the transformative power of the Pozez JCC. By nurturing the mind, body, and spirit through our diverse array of programs, we foster a vibrant community where individuals of all ages can thrive. From fitness classes and social events to volunteer opportunities and intellectual enrichment, we provide a holistic approach to well-being that enriches lives and strengthens the bonds that connect us all.

Realistic Resolutions in 2025

Posted on by Shari Berman

The start of a new year is traditionally a time for making resolutions. These declarations can be a great motivator for self-improvement – if followed – but often they are too ambitious and unattainable. So, for 2025, let’s think realistically.

The Washington Jewish Week hosted a “resolutions” poll in its final issue of 2024! The choices were: eat healthier; find a new job; save money better; join a gym; and other. When I took the poll on December 31, I chose to ‘eat healthier’ in 2025 – the number 1 choice, followed by ‘other’. Let’s face it – from Halloween to New Year’s there is much to indulge in.

Yet just a couple of weeks ago, the J hosted a program featuring a film screening of “Join or Die” followed by discussion/Q&A with a panel – to address a phenomenon discovered by social scientist Robert Putnam: lack of connection, community  and civic engagement has led to decreased health and wellness and eroding democracy in the United States. Additionally, Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy wrote a book called Together in 2020 and issued a Health Advisory giving compelling evidence about the loneliness epidemic. Murthy concluded, “loneliness is far more than just a bad feeling—it harms both individual and societal health.” His recommendation – human connection – with its healing power.

The J’s program proposed that we take small steps to make (big) change happen, both personally and through grassroots efforts in our community. If we can focus on the ‘doable’ small stuff, perhaps we can stay motivated to enhance our personal lives in these 7 key areas:

1. Health and Wellness

  • Movement/Exercise: Did you know that a sedentary lifestyle is worse than smoking cigarettes? Move more by taking daily walks, starting a new exercise routine, or trying a new sport.
  • Mindfulness & Meditation: Incorporate a few minutes of meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve focus. There are many online apps that can help you achieve this!
  • Healthy Eating: Eat a well-balanced diet; limit your intake of sugar and processed foods. Cook more and eat out less, making better choices at restaurants.

2. Personal Growth

  • Read More: Set a goal to read a ‘x’ number of books this year! Try a new genre or dive into a series. Join a book club and consider audiobooks!
  • Learn a New Skill or Hobby:  Whether it’s a new language, how to crochet, or playing pickleball or Mah Jongg, acquiring a new skill or hobby can be very rewarding. Make time for hobbies that you enjoy and take a class/course to stimulate your brain.

3. Professional Development/Volunteering

  • Career Goals/Networking: Set specific, achievable goals for your professional development (certifications, workshops, new projects, etc.) and connect with professionals in your field. Zoom is a great option for connecting with others!
  • Volunteering: Find opportunities to use your professional knowledge and skills to give back. Choose a meaningful cause to donate your time to and make your community and the world a better place! For ideas for helping your community, visit volunteer.theJ.org.

4. Financial Goals

  • Save and Invest: Create a budget, start saving more, and learn about investing to secure your financial future.
  • Debt Reduction: Plan to pay off any outstanding debts and avoid accumulating new ones.

5. Relationships and Social Life

  • Quality Time: Spend more quality time with family and friends. Consider organizing regular get-togethers or simple meetups. Online calendars can help!
  • New Connections: Join clubs or groups related to your interests to meet new people and expand your social circle.

6. Environment and Community

  • Eco-Friendly Practices: Reduce waste, recycle more, and consider using eco-friendly products.

7. Mental Health

  • Self-Care: Make time for activities that recharge you, whether that’s taking a bath, practicing yoga, listening to music or reading a magazine or book.

Remember, the key is to set tangible and manageable goals and track your progress. Celebrate the small victories on your journey and don’t be too hard on yourself if you backslide (everyone does it at times). Put one foot in front of the other and move forward; every step counts!

The Pozez JCC can be instrumental in helping you achieve improvement in these areas. From our state-of-the-art Fitness Center and its many offerings to a wide variety of adult activities for all ages and stages to opportunities to do mitzvot with Volunteer Services, the J has something for everyone! Check out our January calendar here: Programs, Classes & Events – Pozez JCC to find something to enhance your life. 😊

Wishing you an amazing 2025! 🎉

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.

A Day with the J

Posted on by Michelle Pearlstein

Join us for a day of commUNITY on Sunday, September 22!

Building, supporting, connecting, and enriching this vibrant COMMUNITY is our primary mission here at the J. Our programs and activities are available for all ages and are designed to meet a wide range of interests. There’s something for everyone!   

If you are reading this, you probably already know that at the J, you can learn something new, make new friends, and take time to invest in yourself. You may also know that families appreciate the opportunities we provide to engage with other families via programs throughout Northern Virginia. They also value the warm and caring environments of our Early Childhood Learning Center and our programs for school-age children.   

Spend YOUR day with the J next Sunday and get a taste of it all! 

  1. Open House – 10:00am-1:30pm @ Pozez JCC 

Whether you’re a lifelong local or new to the neighborhood, join us for a fun community-wide event! 

Are you a member? Bring a non-member with you to be entered into a special raffle! 

Interested in becoming a member? Sign up at the event for a special promotion!  

Activities include inflatables, face painting, FREE hotdogs and popcorn, BINGO, volunteer opportunities, fitness demonstrations, a vaccine clinic, tours of the J and our Early Childhood Learning Center (ECLC), and more. While this event is free and open to the public, there will be a fee to purchase raffle tickets and Bingo cards. 

  1. Ladies Loving Laughter and Learning/4Ls Lunch Out – 11:00am-1:00pm 

An afternoon of fun and camaraderie for members who connect through the 4Ls Facebook Group 

  1. Apple Picking – 1:00 pm @ Stribling Orchard in Markham, VA 

Apple picking is fun for everyone! Meet at Stribling Orchard – a gorgeous drive west, about an hour from the Pozez JCC. Bring your own picnic blanket or camp chair and look for the Growing Jewish Families sign and banner to find us. 

  1. “A White House Correspondent Remembers: Jewish Experiences and Other Adventures with Six Presidents” Featuring Peter Maer, Veteran Journalist – 2:00pm @ Pozez JCC 

We are thrilled to welcome veteran journalist and local community member Peter Maer to share his personal photos and stories from his many years of encounters with world leaders. 

Whether you spend significant amounts of your time at the J, participate in programs occasionally, or anything in between, we want to thank you for being part of our community and look forward to creating many more memories together this year!