February 28, 2020 | 3 Adar 5780

How much do you know about the rich and historic communities of Beta Israel, also known as Ethiopia’s Jewish community? On Thursday, March 26, learn all about Beta Israel and the emerging Jewish communities of the Amazons and Latin America with Dr. David Breakstone - deputy chairman of the executive of The Jewish Agency for Israel and the conceptual architect and founding director of the Herzl Museum and Educational Centre in Jerusalem. This event is free of charge but registration is encouraged. Register online or contact Diana Kalef with inquiries. 

On February 21, Calgary Hillel hosted their Annual Avi Shabbat Interfaith Dinner alongside students from a variety of faith, cultural, and political backgrounds. Guests took part in traditional Friday night services and actively participated in candle lighting and kiddush. During dinner, student leaders facilitated conversations which challenged participants to reflect on and share their values, beliefs, and traditions. Special thanks to Cantor Russell Jayne and Beth Tzedec Congregation, Adriana Tulissi of the University of Calgary's Faith and Spirituality Centre, the students of Kaleidoscope Project, Hillel, The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) and The Avi Shaefer Fund.

On February 25, Calgary March of the Living students had the privilege of meeting Eli Rubenstein at their weekly education session. Rubenstein is the National Director for March of the Living and is a renowned Holocaust Educator, Jewish religious leader, author and producer. Calgary students along with thousands from around the world will share in the life changing experience of walking the three-kilometer distance from Auschwitz to Birkenau on Yom HaShoah. After a week in Poland they will travel to Israel where they take part in Yom HaZikaron ceremonies and Yom HaAtzmaut celebrations specifically designed for them. Learn more about the March of the Living online or contact Diana Kalef .

Integrated Bursary Applications (IBP) are coming soon. With one application, followed by a discreet session with a Federation volunteer, you can access subsidies for day schools, summer camp, and recreational activities. Access applications on Calgary Jewish Federation's website, Calgary JCC, Halpern Akiva Academy, Jewish Family Service Calgary (JFSC) and The Calgary Jewish Academy. Application deadline is Wednesday, April 1, 2020.