SESSION I:
The “Typical" Jewish Family Isn’t Typical Anymore
Wednesday, January 23
10 a.m. – noon
Private home
How have adoption, interfaith marriage, same-sex marriage, and conversion redefined what a “typical” Jewish family looks like? Not every Jew fits the familiar mold anymore — we may look different, marry differently, and create our families in modern ways, while all still looking for Jewish community. Join us for a conversation about how the Jewish community continues to evolve and become ever more inclusive and welcoming of our diversity. Invited panelists will reflect these diverse backgrounds in various ways, tell their own stories, and address their concerns in an effort to inform and continue building conversation.
SESSION II:
College Campus Conflicts and Challenges over Israeli Issues
Wednesday, February 13
7:30 – 9 p.m.
Private home
Do we really know what’s happening on college campuses today? The BDS movement has not lost any traction, and both students and their parents are confronted with many other controversial issues regarding Israel, Zionism, and free speech. Hear Linda Scherzer, Director of Federation’s Community Relations Committee, and college students from Students Supporting Israel (SSI) discuss current issues on campus. Find out what you can do as a student, a parent, or an alumnus to raise awareness and ultimately make a difference.
SESSION III:
Ensuring that “Lone Soldiers” Are Never Alone
Friday, March 8
10 a.m. – noon
Private home
When immigrants become soldiers in the Israeli Defense Forces, they often find themselves without families to visit on weekend leave, without supportive networks, without the skills to navigate Israeli bureaucracy, and without long-term career guidance. These are the Lone Soldiers of Israel. Join us to learn about the experience of being a Lone Soldier and the American mother of one, Sharon and Rachel Gordon. We will also hear about the work of Wings, an agency that helps in these crucial gaps in the Lone Soldier’s life.
SESSION IV:
Life’s Ups and Downs: Navigating Mental Health Awareness
Tuesday, April 2
10 a.m. – noon
Private home
When do the highs, lows, and general anxiety of life become more than we can handle alone? Join us for an in-depth discussion of mental health challenges through childhood, the teen years, and adulthood. We will examine common myths and perceptions regarding mental health and illness from Sara Mendez-Emma LCSW, a professional with Jewish Family Service of MetroWest. This program will provide the information, tools, and resources we need to help us become more insightful mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, and friends.
Details
- We invite you to join us for a $54 couvert, which entitles you to attend the entire series. If you can only attend one session, we offer a discounted couvert of $18.
- Light breakfast served at the morning sessions, coffee and dessert served at the evening session. Dietary laws will be observed.
- We encourage but do not require attendance at all four sessions, so please indicate which sessions you would like to attend when you RSVP.
- All sessions will be held in private homes in the Greater MetroWest area. Specific locations will be provided upon registration.
Questions?
Contact Claudia Lukac at (973) 929-3057 or clukac@jfedgmw.org.
Building an inclusive community is a priority. Contact us and we will make every effort to meet your needs.