Each year, many synagogues utilize JCF Grants for new and innovative programs and services, and we wanted to share some good news about grants-in-action for Congregation M'kor Shalom and Temple Har Zion:
1.
Congregation M'kor Shalom: Shabbat Storytime
Rabbi Deborah Bodin Cohen (pictured on the left side of the above graphic) will read Engineer Arielle & the Israeli Independence Day Surprise from her award-winning Engineer Ari series during Shabbat Storytime on Saturday, April 23 at 4:00 p.m.
In addition, to celebrate Shabbat, M'kor Shalom's Jill Moghadam will lead in singing and dancing. Each family will receive a copy of the book and can meet the Rabbi for a book signing. Passover friendly desserts and drinks will be provided.
This program is open to the community and is sure to be a fun night for the whole family! Click here to register.
Update: read a bit about the program that was held via Facebook, sounds like everybody had a delightful time!
2.
Temple Har Zion: Project DAVEN (Disabilities, Accessibility, Visitors, Engaging Neighbors)
We are happy to share an uplifting update from Helena Kosoff of Temple Har Zion about their recently-completed, JCF Grant-funded initiative to help remove obstacles for visually-challenged synagogue members to pray with friends and family during Shabbat, holiday services, and special programs. A picture of a beneficiary reading an enlarged print book is shown above, on right. Here is the recap:
"THZ's Project D.A.V.E.N. (Disabilities. Accessibility, Visitors. Engaging Neighbors) is goal-focused to enable persons challenged with disabilities and those impacted by the physical limitations of Covid 19 to scale barriers to participate in prayer religious activities and effectively communicate with other on-site and/or online through varied traditional and social media platforms. Large-print weekly and high holiday prayer books, and computer tablets for those in need enabled attendance at weekly Shabbat and holiday services, monthly meditation, and special program attendance. The program served members of Temple Har Zion (Mount Holly, NJ) and outreached to include those in need through collaboration with A.D.E.P.T. Programs, Inc./ Assisted Living for Disabled Adults in Burlington, New Lisbon Developmental Center, The A.R.C. of Burlington County, Masonic Home of Burlington. Buttonwood, and Joint Base McGuire, Dix, Lakehurst."
In addition, a Jewish Federation and multiple synagogues have contacted Temple Har Zion to see how they can replicate this initiative in their respective organizations.
Learn More About JCF Grants
The JCF is proud to support these two wonderful, above-mentioned initiatives in the community, and we look forward to supporting many more.
Though the Spring Cycle for JCF Grants recently wrapped up, nonprofits and synagogues should make note to apply for our next cycle in the fall. Dates and details will be announced around mid-to-late summer. Visit the JCF Grants webpage for more information.