The New Year is in full swing, and we hope you’ve stuck with your resolutions so far. Whether you’re trying to get a handle on some love handles or simply do your part to change the world, we encourage you to make a resolution to get more involved with the Jewish community during 2014! Of course, “getting involved” means different things to different people. That’s why we have lots of upcoming choices for you.
Make New Friends
On January 24th, experience a different kind of Shabbat dinner—by dining out with other Jewish young adults in their 20s and 30s who live in our community. It’s happening through Shabbat Out LA, a new program of JCC Without Walls for people who want to socialize, taste some of the best cuisine our city has to offer, and put a new spin on a Jewish tradition. Shabbat Out LA will be meeting—and eating—at Westside Tavern, headed up by Chef Benjamin Cohn, who has been honored by Best Chefs America as one of the country’s top culinary talents. RSVP now–then bring your appetite and come join us!
Make a New Wrinkle in Your Brain
Maybe getting involved means simply expanding your mind alongside others who share your Jewish values and your passion for Jewish life. Sound more your speed? Then don’t miss our upcoming TED-style evening of discussion and debate on January 22nd, titled “What’s so Jewish about Changing the World?” Community leaders from throughout Los Angeles will share their liturgical, historical, cultural, civic and philanthropic answers to that question, including Rabbi Ed Feinstein of Valley Beth Shalom, Dr. David Myers of UCLA, and our Federation’s General Campaign Chair Julie B. Platt. Let us know you’ll be there.
Make New Business Connections
Our REC (Real Estate & Construction) Cabinet Breakfast on January 16th will feature Art Coppola, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Macerich, one of the premier real estate investment trusts in the country. Art guides an expansive national portfolio of high-performing retail properties, with a focus on adding value to assets and land holdings. If you’re in the real estate industry and aren’t already involved with REC, these monthly breakfasts are a great opportunity to network and grow your business. Click here to learn more and RSVP.
Make a Difference by Putting Tzedakah on Speed Dial
Super Sunday, our annual community-wide fundraising day, is being held February 9th at the Skirball Center. With one convenient location, shorter phone sessions and bigger prizes, including a spot on our Federation’s 2014 Community Trip to Israel, you don’t want to miss out! Sign up to join us in making some friendly calls asking your fellow community members to support our Federation’s life-changing work caring for Jews in need, engaging with the community and ensuring the Jewish future.
Make a Difference in the Community
Maybe you’re looking for a hands-on experience by participating in one of our Federation’s upcoming Community Service Days. Not only is this a great way to meet other Angelenos, but what you accomplish (whether you’re preparing care packages or setting up a party for children with special needs) will warm your heart and fill you with a sense of pride that’s truly contagious. Your first opportunity is on February 9th. Join our Volunteer email list, and we’ll send you all the details.
If you’re looking for an ongoing way to make a difference, consider becoming a KOREH L.A. reading partner. You’ll be paired with an elementary school student who needs help learning to read, and meet with the student on a weekly basis. Come to one our training sessions on January 12th or 26th to get started.
Make New Parenting Choices
In a community filled with technology overload and material excess, is it still possible to raise a mensch? And if you’re a parent, are you raising one? Join us on January 23rd for the next discussion in our Federation’s Valley Women’s Education Series to find out. Our speaker is Marissa Gold, founder and parent educator of IntuitParenting. She will share age-appropriate techniques to reinforce positive and respectful brain-based parenting. The working mother of two brings hands-on experience in how to parent so our children become the mensches we want them to be. If you’ve got kids, RSVP for this important discussion.
Make it a Great Year
No matter how you choose to make 2014 count, we wish you health, happiness and the motivation you need to make all of your resolutions come true! And check out our Community Events Calendar for all upcoming involvement opportunities.
