Roesch International Jewish Film Festival
Wednesday, October 14, 2026 - Friday, October 29, 2027
Welcome to Your Next Chapter in Greater MetroWest!
We’re building a vibrant community of active, energetic, and engaged adults (55+)! Whether you’re newly retired, new to the area, finding yourself with more time or just discovering Federation, Next Chapter is your gateway to meaningful connection, purpose, and community.
Through volunteer opportunities, engaging programs and learning experiences, we help you give back and stay connected to Jewish life in Greater MetroWest.
Connect with Next Chapter on social media and join our WhatsApp group —it‘s an easy way to stay in the loop and even find an event buddy.
Greater MetroWest is home to 83 synagogues and three Jewish Community Centers (JCCs), offering a wide range of cultural, educational, recreational, and social activities for Next Chapter participants. In addition to Federation programs, we collaborate with partner agencies and synagogues to promote their offerings—fostering a Greater MetroWest where individuals feel supported, connected, and valued.
None of what we do would be possible without the support of our amazing donors. Please consider making a gift to the UJA Annual Campaign here.
Explore more below!
Center for Volunteer Opportunities
Federation’s Center for Volunteerism provides a variety of service opportunities to care for those in need, strengthen our Jewish community, and make a difference in the lives of others.
For meaningful ways to engage at every age see our upcoming volunteer opportunities here and check back often — we’re always adding new service projects to the calendar.
Community Programming
Greater MetroWest is home to three Jewish Community Centers (JCCs) that provide a wide range of cultural, educational, recreational, and social activities for adults at various life stages—from singles and couples to baby boomers, empty nesters, and active seniors.
Located in Union, Scotch Plains, and West Orange, the JCCs are wonderful places to meet and connect with fellow community members nearby.
Resources & Support
Access resources for physical, mental, and spiritual needs, along with social, vocational, housing, and transportation opportunities.
Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest is made stronger by the participation of people of every age, ability, race, ethnicity, denomination, gender identity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, and religious affiliation.
Next Chapter is made possible, in part, by funding of the Grotta Fund for Older Adults, a philanthropic fund of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater MetroWest NJ.
Understanding Israel with Next Chapter Series
Join Next Chapter (55+ish) for our popular and thought-provoking Understanding Israel series with Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ’s Israeli Shlicha, Daniella Gefen. This engaging three-part series will examine current issues shaping Israeli society, including elections and coalition politics, shifts within the Ultra-Orthodox community, and the complex role of media narratives in understanding Israel.
Contact Next Chapter
Andrea Bergman
Community Concierge
[email protected]
Next Chapter Chair
Francine Nayman-Heller
Next Chapter Committee
Next Chapter Committee:
Arlene Brafman, Merle Lomrantz, Francine Nayman-Heller (Chair), Robin Polson, Jeff Rayner, Suzy Schwartz
Jamie Carus
Senior Program Manager, Center for Volunteerism
[email protected]