March 8, 2024 | 28 Adar l 5784

On International Women's Day, we mark the incredible achievements of women worldwide. However, our joy is tempered by the sobering reality that 19 Israeli women remain held hostage in Gaza. While we honour the strength and resilience of Jewish women and women everywhere, our hearts ache for those still in captivity. We stand together.

In recognition of women's resilience and strength, join us for a program filled with mindfulness and positivity this Sunday, March 10 from 10:00am to noon at the Paperny Family JCC. Let's come together to honour International Women's Day and uplift women worldwide, including those who are still fighting for their freedom. Find out more and register here. In partnership with Paperny Family JCC Arts and Culture, PJ Library®, JAC, and Hillel Calgary.

Join us for A Night at the Speakeasy - JAC Gala on Saturday, April 6, from 7:00 to 11:30pm at The Commons - Hemingway Room. Step back in time to the roaring twenties and experience the excitement of a speakeasy. Enjoy the thrill of the gambling den (fun casino) while savouring delicious appetizers, and peruse the enticing raffle prizes with a signature cocktail in hand. Don't forget to dress to impress and feel free to add a touch of 20's flair to your attire! Don't miss out and register now. For more information email Hannah Giesinger.

The Integrated Bursary Program (IBP) was created to make the process of applying for a bursary more dignified, anonymous, effective, and fair. All the schools, programs, and services covered by bursaries are on one application form, meaning the process is done one time for the entire year for all family members.

It is the policy of Calgary Jewish Federation that families and individuals needing a bursary be accommodated if at all possible. We are committed to the ideal that no member of the Jewish community be denied a Jewish educational, social, or cultural experience. Those families that do not have the financial resources to pay full fees will be considered for a bursary. Contact us for more information. The 2024/25 application form will be available soon on our website.

PJ Library had a great weekend! On March 3, Parent Connectors Andrea Scharfstein (South Calgary) and Alexis Katzeff (North Calgary) each hosted a sold-out event at the local library.

Andrea's Adopt a Pet program at the Shawnessy Public Library was a heartwarming tribute to the Jewish value of kindness towards animals. The event was filled with activities, including pet adoption stations, collar making, a mock vet clinic, playdough treat crafting, and a simulated pet store. Alexis' Let's Grow Our Community event at the Crowfoot Public Library united families through nature exploration. PJ families participated in flower crafting, herb planting, and made sensory bins inspired by PJ Library books.

The parent connector program is an exciting new initiative designed to connect PJ families to others who live in close proximity and to extend the reach of PJ Library and the Calgary Jewish community as a whole. For more information about the Parent Connector Initiative please email Sydney Truax or email our parent connectors (Andrea – South Calgary, Alexis – North Calgary or Aliya –families with children 0 to 2 years).

Building an inclusive community is our priority.

Contact us and we will make every effort to meet your needs.