Making an IMPACT at The Associated

By Josh Caplan

I have been involved with IMPACT since my graduation from law school in 2007. It quickly became apparent to me that The Associated was dedicated to incorporating young professionals into its mission. My participation in IMPACT has afforded me many incredible social networking, leadership development, volunteer and philanthropic opportunities in Baltimore’s Jewish community. The valuable skills and relationships I have cultivated through IMPACT translate well in my professional life as an attorney.

This year, I have had the tremendous privilege of co-chairing “A Taste of IMPACT,” a four-part series of educational, service and social networking programs for young professionals who want to learn more about IMPACT, The Associated and its agencies. This initiative engaged two cohorts of 15 to 20 people in both the fall and spring. We learn about hands-on volunteerism, Israel and overseas committees, leadership development opportunities and even Jewish Big Brother/Big Sister. (In fact, two participants from this past year have become Big Brothers and Big Sisters.) It’s incredibly fulfilling to lead a program that engages young leaders as they begin to chart their own path within our system. Many have expressed interest in joining the next class of the Young Leadership Council (YLC) – only time will tell how they’ll positively impact our system in the future.

IMPACT has also introduced me to the work of The Associated’s agencies and programs and inspired me to carve out my own niche of meaningful Jewish involvement. In addition to IMPACT, I serve on the board of Jewish Volunteer Connection (JVC), and I volunteer with Shalom Baltimore, a program which welcomes newcomers to Baltimore’s Jewish community. Both JVC and Shalom Baltimore provide superb public service and social networking opportunities for young professionals in a casual environment.

My involvement with IMPACT has served as a springboard to my development as a lay leader, and I am always excited to share my experience with others. I am proud to serve as an IMPACT ambassador, and I look forward to introducing more young professionals to The Associated in the coming year.

What To Do This Week In Baltimore

Check out these great events for the whole family sponsored by THE ASSOCIATED or ASSOCIATED agencies.

Sunday, June 9
Open Farm Days
1:30 – 6:00 p.m.

Spend this Sunday at the Pearlstone Center monthly for a fun day of friends, farming and festivities. Volunteer alongside other community members and learn about sustainability through hands-on skills workshops such as pickling, cheese-making and composting. Celebrate the seasons, enjoy live entertainment and bring a picnic to eat on the farm.

The event is free. Learn more at pearlstonecenter.org/volunteer/open-farm-days/.

Tuesday, June 11
Business & Professionals Group’s Annual Real Estate Industry Group Event
5:30 p.m.

Meet the leaders of the real estate industry at one of the hottest events and spaces in Baltimore. Mill No. 1 is an adaptive reuse of 19th-century cotton mill buildings transformed into a mixed-use project overlooking the Jones Falls stream. Donald Manekin (Union Mill), Bill Struever (Clipper Mill) and David Tufaro (Mill No. 1) will discuss historic revitalization, the Jones Falls area, and much more. Guests are invited to tour the mill after the program.

Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served. Mill No. 1 is located at 3000 Falls Road. The event is $35 in advance; $45 at the door. To register, go to associated.org/reig.

Wednesday, June 12
Lunch Spectacular Series Featuring Ilene Dackman-Alon
11:45 a.m. – 1:45 p.m.
Learn about oral histories and telling your own story in a new and unique way! Ilene Dackman-Alon from the Jewish Museum of Maryland will present “We Live by Stories: How Stories and Storytelling Transform Our Lives” as part of a lunch series at the Weinberg Park Heights JCC, 5700 Park Heights Avenue.

Event is $8 for JCC Members, $12 for Non-Members For more information, call Sara Shvartzman at 410-500-5903 or register at sshvartzman@jcc.org.

Thursday, June 13
Young Adults Volunteer with Ronald McDonald House
5:00 – 7:00 p.m. or 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Bring sunshine to families and children, undergoing medical treatment, who are staying at the Ronald McDonald House, 635 West Lexington Street. From 5:00 to 5:30 p.m., young adults are invited to bring a dinner dish to prepare in the kitchen. At 6:00 p.m., they will serve dinner and visit with the residents. From 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., volunteers will give parents a break, running an activities hour featuring crafts, board games and other fun projects. Volunteers can sign up for each opportunity separately or stay for the whole evening.

Contact Rebecca Weinstock at rweinstock@associated.org to register or learn more.

Future Events
Sunday, June 16
Clark Kent’s Bar Mitzvah Party
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Superboy becomes Superman! Celebrate the opening of the new movie, “Man of Steel,” with a coming-of-age party of heroic proportions at the Jewish Museum of Maryland, 15 Lloyd Street. Enjoy music, food, games, prizes and crafts while reminiscing about Clark Kent’s childhood.

The cost to attend is $5 member individuals, $10 non-member individuals, $13 member families and $18 non-member families. Visit jewishmuseummd.org for more information.

Monday, June 17
Adasha: Creative Arts Through a Jewish Lens Summer Institute
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
High school artists, come explore how identity and art intersect! Participants will meet with local Jewish artists to learn about how their Jewish identities have influenced their art. This intensive program will feature group and individual introspective processing and will culminate in a gallery opening at the Weinberg Park Heights JCC.

The program, which will be held at The Park School of Baltimore, 2425 Old Court Road, runs through June 21. Contact Neely Snyder, nsnyder@cjebaltimore.org for more information.

Tuesday, June 18
Screening of “Through the Eye of the Needle: The Art of Esther Nisenthal Krinitz”
6:30 p.m
More than 40 years after the Holocaust, Esther Nisenthal Krinitz began creating fabric collage and embroidery panels to tell her story of survival. Esther’s daughter, Bernice Steinhardt, will show and discuss the award winning documentary, “Through the Eye of the Needle,” and the book, Memories of Survival, chronicling her mother’s experiences and artwork.

This free screening will be held at the Myerberg Senior Center, 3101 Fallstaff Road. Go to jewishmuseummd.org for more information.

Wednesday, June 19
THE ASSOCIATED’s 2013 Annual Meeting
5:30 p.m.
Review the challenges and opportunities of the past year, learn about THE ASSOCIATED’s vision for the future and pay tribute to Marc B. Terrill for his decade of service as President of THE ASSOCIATED. Annual meeting will be held at Beth El Congregation, 8101 Park Heights Avenue.

Seven Ways to Make a Difference Volunteering for Seniors

by Shelley Weinreb
CHAI (Comprehensive Housing Assistance, Inc.)

It’s a great mitzvah (good deed) to do a kindness for another person. Our sages tell us that each act of kindness is counted and recalled on the ‘Day of Judgment.’ There’s even a tradition that says that every mitzvah we do creates its own angel that testifies on our behalf. Here in this world, we can testify to the wonderful lift we experience when we help another person. In fact, there’s perhaps no better cure for the blues than the warm feeling of making a positive difference in someone’s life.

Here in northwest Baltimore, we are blessed to have a new organization that gives volunteers many opportunities to make a noticeable difference in seniors’ lives: Northwest Neighbors Connecting (NNC).

Developed with the help of local seniors, THE ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore and CHAI (Comprehensive Housing Assistance, Inc.), NNC brings neighbors together by connecting older adults with volunteers to create a growing, responsive “village” or network of support. Volunteers give their time to help in a variety of life-enhancing ways. Here are seven of the most popular:

1. Be the “wheels” they no longer have
If you’ve ever had to insist that a senior stop driving, you know how difficult it can be. Not being able to go anywhere you want, whenever you want, feels like a prison sentence to many who fear the loss of their independence. By driving a senior to the doctor, store, library, etc., you help restore their sense of independence and empowerment. You, in turn, can make new friends, hear new stories and learn about the area where you live, just by giving someone a ride.

2. Check in with a visit or phone call
In August of 2003, a “holocaust of the elderly” occurred in France when over 10,000 seniors died in the worst heat wave on record. Many of them lived alone and perished from the heat simply because no one looked in on them. This is an extreme example of the importance of this simple, kind mitzvah that can brighten someone’s life or save it. Through NNC, you can volunteer to be a friendly caller and keep tabs on your neighbor.

3. Take a senior shopping
Whether it’s a trip to the supermarket or the mall, taking an older adult shopping is a wonderful mitzvah that promotes independence and helps them feel functional and “normal.” It also takes them out of their home, where they spend almost all their time. Taking a senior shopping is a wonderful experience for your kids as well.

4. Do light chores
Assisting with simple chores around the house is greatly appreciated, from changing a light bulb to taking out the trash.

5. Help with computers or cellphones
You don’t need to be a super techie to help a senior make sense of today’s phones and computers. If you’re patient and can explain the basics in simple, step-by-step language, you can bring a senior into the 21st century. Activities like setting up a Facebook account, programming numbers into a phone and helping a senior email her grandchildren open up a whole new world for an older adult.

6. Join a Northwest Neighbors Connecting committee
Volunteering for an NNC committee is a great way to get to know the organization and its family of members. NNC needs volunteers for its Advocacy Committee, Caring Committee, Service Coordination Committee, Outreach Committee, Finance Committee and more.

7. Become a friend
When a person volunteers, their focus is on giving, not receiving. But the truth is that giving always comes with a hidden gift. And at NNC, that gift is the relationships formed. More than the typical organization, NNC is a community of members and volunteers who are there for each other as friends…connecting and caring.

To learn more about joining or volunteering for NNC, call Risyl Edelman at 410-500-5319 or email nncbaltimore@gmail.com.

For a first-hand look, come to one of NNC’s June events:
• June 6, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. – Retirement Chat, 3721 Glen Avenue
• June 12, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. – Emergency Preparedness Information Session, Myerberg Senior Center, 3101 Fallstaff Road
• June 25, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. – NNC General Meeting Weinberg Park, 5833 Park Heights Avenue
• June 30, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. – White Elephant Sale, Myerberg Senior Center, 3101 Fallstaff Road

TGI Grant-Processing

By: Matthew Yatovitz
Teen Giving Initiative (TGI) member

Through THE ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimiore and Jewish Volunteer Connection’s Teen Giving Initiative (TGI), I, as well as 19 other TGI fellows, have learned grant writing and the allocations process. The grant process — deciding who to give to — was very strenuous, but it was also very rewarding and educational. Prior to this wonderful experience, I had very little knowledge about what a grant was, and how it was used. Through the leadership of our amazing advisor, Amy Goldberg, we all gained the knowledge that would help us in this monumental decision.

The process started with the request for proposal (RFP) that we sent out to both organizations that we had researched as well as ones that we wanted to know more about. We then received back about half of the RFP’s that were sent out. These were the grant proposals.

All the fellows read the proposals, and the grant-processing chair for each group sent an email to the organizations with questions we had regarding their operation and their proposal. As grant-processing chair, I got first-hand experience when I did a site visit at the Incentive Mentoring Program, which ended up being one of the organizations that we allocated money. My two grant process co-chairs visited other organizations in Baltimore that applied for the grants.

After we received answers to our questions and went on site visits, we came together once again to decide on the two or three organizations that we would fund. We then rated each organization and their proposal. After we decided which organizations to give to, we had to decide which portion of our funds would go to each organization.

We decided to give 60 percent toward hunger, tutoring and bullying efforts at The Incentive Mentoring Program, 30 percent toward the Help Our Hero’s Veteran’s Initiative through Mazon: A Jewish Response to Hunger, and 10 percent to KIPP Baltimore’s KaBOOOM playground build. We decided this percentage breakdown by discussing how our money would benefit them, and how much of the money they requested they would actually need to get the program funded.

We then notified the organizations that we decided to fund that we were going to fund them. During our TGI closing program on May 5, we awarded these deserving organizations with checks for their programs and the process was then completed.

The complicated decision on the grant awarding was very difficult, because there were many extremely commendable programs. It was unfortunate that we weren’t able to give to all of them. However, through the step-by-step process that we went through, we were all content with the decision that we made, because we knew that these organizations were the most worthy.

The process of grant-writing and the decision of the granting of funds is a skill that will help me in life, as I intend to pursue a career in business. This experience was extremely rewarding as it will help me in my Jewish fulfillment of the mitzvah of philanthropy.

Learn about our teen programs and teen volunteer opportunities at jvcbaltimore.org.

What To Do This Week In Baltimore

Check out these great events for the whole family sponsored by THE ASSOCIATED or ASSOCIATED agencies.

Sunday, May 26
All The King’s Horses: The Story of Gwynn Oak Amusement Park
4:00 p.m.

In celebration of 50 years of desegregation at Gwynn Oak Amusement Park, join the community in a screening of the documentary, “All The King’s Horses: The Story of Gwynn Oak Amusement Park.” A panel discussion on remembering the protest will follow. The panel will include Edwin T. Johnson, Ph.D, Interim Assistant Dean, College of Liberal Arts, Morgan State University, Valerie Thaler, Assistant Professor, College of Liberal Arts, Towson University, Carol Frank, non-violent protestor at Gwynn Oak and Charles Mason, CORE organizer of the protest.

Event will be held at Baltimore Hebrew Congregation, 7401 Park Heights Avenue. For information, contact Rabbi Gila Ruskin, gwynnoak1963@gmail.com.

Wednesday, May 29
MIDC-Israel Cyber Security Forum
5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In recent years, companies have been stepping up their security efforts to prevent a cyber attack. Join the Maryland/Israel Development Center to learn about some of the latest trends in the cyber security market landscape, and meet a delegation of Israel’s most innovative cyber security companies and entrepreneurs. Forum will be held at the Howard Community College, Health Sciences Building, 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway in Columbia.

Event is free for MIDC members, and is $18 for non-members. For more information, email Peter Telem at ptelem@marylandisrael.org) or call 410-984-3567. To register go to marylandisrale.org/cybersecurity.

Thursday, May 30
ASSOCIATED Women’s 2013 Annual Meeting
7:00 p.m.

Meet Nancy Lublin, founder of Dress for Success and CEO of dosomething.org , a social entrepreneur, author and think-outside-the-box leader, who will share her story and experiences reimagining volunteerism, business and technology. Be inspired by Lublin and other women at the ASSOCIATED Women’s 2013 Annual Meeting at Beth Israel Congregation, 3706 Crondall Lane, Owings Mills To register, go to associated.org/womensannualmeeting.

Future Events
Sunday, June 2
Israel65.Celebrate! Noon.
Concert begins at 4:00 p.m.

Join our community for a celebration of Israel’s 65th birthday, featuring Matisyahu, Jewish-American reggae and alternative rock musician. The day-long celebration also includes interactive activities for all ages, Israeli food and vendors, an innovation exhibit and much more.

Israel65.will be held at the Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC, 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue. Tickets for the Matisyahu concert are $25 for adults and $15 for children under 13. To purchase tickets, go to baltimoreisraelcoalition.org

Tuesday, June 11
Business & Professionals Group’s Annual Real Estate Industry Group Event
5:30 p.m.
Meet the leaders of the real estate industry at one of the hottest events and spaces in Baltimore. Mill No. 1 is an adaptive reuse of 19th-century cotton mill buildings transformed into a mixed-use project overlooking the Jones Falls stream. Donald Manekin (Union Mill), Bill Struever (Clipper Mill) and David Tufaro (Mill No. 1) will discuss historic revitalization, the Jones Falls area, and much more. Guests are invited to tour the mill after the program. Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served.

Mill No. 1 is located at 3000 Falls Road. The event is $35 in advance; $45 at the door. To register, go to associated.org/reig.

Sunday, June 16
Clark Kent’s Bar Mitzvah Party
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Superboy becomes Superman! Celebrate the opening of the new movie, “Man of Steel,” with a coming-of-age party of heroic proportions at the Jewish Museum of Maryland, 15 Lloyd Street. Enjoy music, food, games, prizes and crafts while reminiscing about Clark Kent’s childhood.

The cost to attend is $5 member individuals, $10 non-member individuals, $13 member families and $18 non-member families. Visit jewishmuseummd.org for more information.

What To Do This Week In Baltimore

Check out these great events for the whole family sponsored by THE ASSOCIATED or ASSOCIATED agencies.

Sunday, May 19
HaZamir Baltimore Concert
Fresh from a recent trip to New York, where they performed jazz at Lincoln Center, 30 students from 12 area high schools will showcase their musical talent in the Seventh Annual HaZamir JCC concert. Held at the Weinberg Park Heights JCC, Sunday’s performance will feature a diverse repertoire of traditional and contemporary Jewish choral music.
The concert begins at 4:00 p.m. and tickets are $10. For information, go to http://http://www.jcc.org/teens/hazamirchorale/.

Monday, May 20
PJ Pals Storytime

Join Rebecca Levitan, the Macks Center for Jewish Education Librarian, for a special children’s story time at Soft and Cozy Baby, 915 W. 36th Street. Listen to some wonderful PJ Library stories, make a craft and enjoy a free snack. Event, which runs 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., is free for families with children ages six months through five years. Contact Lara Nicolson, lnicolson@cjebaltimore.org for more information.

Tuesday, May 21
JCS Parent Discussion Series
How do you raise great kids in today’s complicated world? Howard Reznick, Senior Manager of Jewish Community Services (JCS) Prevention Education, will tackle this question and provide tips on how to guide your child in making responsible and wise choices. This is the first of a monthly parent discussion series for parents of children of all ages.

This free program, also sponsored by the JCC, will be held at the JCS Owings Mills location, 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue and begins at 6:00 p.m. Babysitting is available for a small fee. For information and to register, contact Lorna Walsh at 410-843-7568 or lwalsh@jcsbaltimore.org.

Tuesday, May 21
Bookworms at Federal Hill Preparatory School
Adult volunteers are invited to read to second-graders at Federal Hill Preparatory School from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Meet at 9:25 a.m. at Chizuk Amuno Congregation parking lot (far corner by Stevenson Road and 695) to carpool or just meet at the school, 1040 William Street in Baltimore. Bring a new or gently-used book to read and then to donate to the class. For more information or to register, please contact Mike Andrews at mandrews@associated.org.

Future Events
May 30
ASSOCIATED Women’s 2013 Annual Meeting

Nancy Lublin, founder of Dress for Success and CEO of dosomething.org , a social entrepreneur, author and think-outside-the-box leader, will share her story and experiences reimagining volunteerism, business and technology. Be inspired by Lublin and other women at the ASSOCIATED Women’s 2013 Annual Meeting, beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Beth Israel Congregation, 3706 Crondall Lane.

To register, go to associated.org/womensannualmeeting.

Sunday, June 2
Israel65.Celebrate!
Join our community for a celebration of Israel’s 65th birthday, featuring Matisyahu, Jewish-American reggae and alternative rock musician. The day-long celebration also includes interactive activities for all ages, Israeli food and vendors, an innovation exhibit and much more.

Israel65.Celebrate! will be held at the Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC, 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue. Tickets are now on sale for the Matisyahu concert, which begins at 4:00 p.m. Prices are $25 for adults and $15 for children under 13. To purchase tickets, go to baltimoreisraelcoalition.org.

Tuesday, June 11
Business & Professionals Group’s Annual Real Estate Industry Group Event
Meet the leaders of the real estate industry at one of the hottest events and spaces in Baltimore. Mill No. 1 is an adaptive reuse of 19th-century cotton mill buildings transformed into a mixed-use project overlooking the Jones Falls stream. Donald Manekin (Union Mill), Bill Struever (Clipper Mill) and David Tufaro (Mill No. 1) will discuss historic revitalization, the Jones Falls area, and much more. Guests are invited to tour the mill after the program.

Open bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served. Mill No. 1 is located at 3000 Falls Road. The event, which begins at 5:30 p.m. is $35 in advance; $45 at the door. To register, go to associated.org/reig.

What To Do In Baltimore

Check out these great events for the whole family sponsored by THE ASSOCIATED or ASSOCIATED agencies.

Sunday, May 5
Nurture Your Nature at the Pearlstone Center
Tap into the natural world at the Pearlstone Center’s beautiful, tranquil setting at this creative and inspired women-centered afternoon. Make cheese, pickles and more. Donate your handcrafted projects to community organizations. Then, discover hands-on-farming and learn about healthy living.
Sponsored by ASSOCIATED Women, “Nurture Your Nature” begins at 2:00 p.m. For information and to register, contact Carly Frank at cfrank@associated.org.

Sunday, May 5
JCC Open House

Stop in at the Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC, 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue, this Sunday morning, 9:00 a.m. – 12 p.m. for a morning of family fun. Get in shape for summer with a free fitness class — SMRT Core: Self-Myofascial Release Therapy and Core Training on a foam roller. Bring your kids and have them try out the obstacle course. Join by Sunday and get the month of May free.
For more details, visit jcc.org or contact Membership Services at 410- 356-5200, ext. 3506.

Sunday, May 5
Cook and Serve Dinner at the Children’s House at Johns Hopkins Hospital
Are you a teen who is looking to make a difference in someone’s life? Join other teens to help cook and serve dinner to the families who are staying at the Johns Hopkins Children’s House at Johns Hopkins Hospital, 1915 McElderry Street.
This volunteer activity, which runs 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., is coordinated by the Diller Baltimore Teen Fellows. To sign up, contact Megan Goldsmith, 410-843-7477, mgoldsmith@associated.org.

Future Events
Saturday, May 11
The Movement @ the Gordon Center
Come see the Baltimore Improv Group and The Collective perform an evening of unscripted comedy and dance based on audience suggestions. Performance begins at 8:30 p.m. at the Gordon Center For Performing Arts, 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue, Owings Mills. Tickets are $15; $10 for seniors/students. For details, visit gordoncenter.com.

Tuesday, May, 14
JCC Lunch Spectacular Series Featuring Carolyn Enger
Stop by the Weinberg Park Heights JCC, 5700 Park Heights Avenue, for lunch and music by renowned concert pianist, Carolyn Enger. Listen to the sounds of Enger as she performs Shavuot-themed pieces such as “Three Israeli Dances” by Robert Starer and “Five Pieces for Piano” by Paul Ben-Haim.
Program runs 11:45 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. Cost is $8 for JCC members and $12 for non-members. For information, call Sara Shvartzman at 410-500-5903 or register at sshvartzman@jcc.org.

Tuesday, May 21
JCS Parent Discussion Series
How do you raise great kids in today’s complicated world? Howard Reznick, Senior Manager of Jewish Community Services (JCS) Prevention Education, will tackle this question and provide tips on how to guide your child in making responsible and wise choices. This is the first of a monthly parent discussion series for parents of children of all ages.
This free program, also sponsored by the JCC, will be held at the JCS Owings Mills location, 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue and begins at 6:00 p.m. Babysitting is available for a small fee. For information and to register, contact Lorna Walsh at 410-843-7568 or lwalsh@jcsbaltimore.org.

May 30
ASSOCIATED Women’s 2013 Annual Meeting

Nancy Lublin, founder of Dress for Success and CEO of dosomething.org, a social entrepreneur, author and think-outside-the-box leader, will share her story and experiences reimagining volunteerism, business and technology. Be inspired by Lublin and other women at the 2013 ASSOCIATED Women’s 2013 Annual Meeting, beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Beth Israel Congregation, 3706 Crondall Lane. To register, go to associated.org/womensannualmeeting.

Sunday, June 2
Israel65.
Join our community for a celebration of Israel’s 65th birthday, featuring Matisyahu, Jewish-American reggae and alternative rock musician. The day-long celebration also includes interactive activities for all ages, Israeli food and vendors, an innovation exhibit and much more.

Israel65.will be held at the Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC, 3506 Gwynbrook Avenue. Tickets are now on sale for the Matisyahu concert, which begins at 4:00 p.m. Prices are $25 for adults and $15 for children under 13. To purchase tickets, go to baltimoreisraelcoalition.org.

Engage Your Children In Volunteering

By Stacey and Randy Getz
Stacey is the Chair of the Jewish Volunteer Connection’s Family Committee

YOU ARE YOUR CHILD’S ROLE MODEL! As a parent, sometimes I’ve realized that fact a little too late–like when I drive a tad too fast or maybe don’t give someone the benefit of the doubt. I’d like to think though, that my positive influences on my children outweigh those transgressions.

One area where my husband and I attempt to set a positive example is in making it a priority to help those who are less fortunate and trying to treat others as kindly as possible. There are lots of ways to do that, and we want our children to know that these values are important lifelong goals.

The Jewish concepts of Tikkun Olam, repairing the world and making it a better place, and Derech Eretz, the idea that we should try to follow a proper course in dealing with others, are the ideal.

On a daily basis we have many opportunities to do small acts of kindness, whether it is saying please and thank you, holding the door open for someone, lending a hand, giving a compliment or a number of other things often taken for granted. We as individuals have the opportunity to make the day a little brighter and a little easier for others we encounter during our day.

Volunteering is another way to make a difference. There are so many opportunities to lend a helping hand – from making food for the Hannah More Homeless shelter in Reisterstown like families did on a recent Sunday to JVC’s Mitzvah Makers or visiting the elderly at local nursing homes. There are so many meaningful activities for those that need our help.

We continue to learn how we can make a difference. And, the interesting thing is, these activities probably make us feel as good as the recipients.

Now as parents, we are watching our children contribute to their communities–at school, on the athletic fields, at Mitzvah Makers programs, participating in Camp Tzedek and with their peers and friends.

Being involved with JVC has enhanced my family’s volunteerism. We hope you will join us on our journey.

Learn how your family can volunteer. Go to jvcbaltimore.org.

Diller Inspires

By Rachel Orlinsky and Reid Danels
Diller Baltimore Cohort, 2011-2012

We obviously love the Diller Baltimore Teen Fellow program so much that  becoming Junior Counselors and doing it another year as the new cohort’s mentors was a natural decision. Our love for Diller stems from the unique experiences that make up this amazing program.

During our time as Diller Fellows, not only did we participate in a life-changing trip to Israel – where we formed unbreakable bonds with our Israeli counterparts – but we also found that the program contributed to the people we are today. Through Diller, we made some of our closest friends whose Shabbat dinners we still attend weekly and whose houses have become our homes away from home.

We’ll never forget a Friday night service during the week-long International Congress when teens from all over North America and Israel came together, dressed in white, to welcome Shabbat. Seeing this sea of white and celebrating with teens from across the world was remarkable, and an image that we will never forget.

Going into the program we were leaders, but without the necessary skills to make an impact in our community. The seminars and retreats, as well as the rest of the program, helped us to develop into the strong, independent Jewish leaders we’ve become. Now, after completing Diller, we can say that we have gained confidence in ourselves, a strong sense of our Jewish identity and a commitment to the Jewish community, both locally and globally.

While the seminars, retreats and our own community service projects were certainly highlights, two parts of the program that were unforgettable were hosting an Israeli teen in our homes and our experience in Israel. While we hosted an Israeli teen for a little more than a week, we spent time together, took them to school, traveled to DC and formed a close connection with them and the entire cohort from Ashkelon.

As for the Israel trip, we can both confidently say that it was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. The trip was broken up into three weeks, the first for traveling, the second for the International Congress, and the final for home hospitality and community week in Ashkelon.

Another special moment was our time in Jerusalem. As part of our welcome to Jerusalem, we were all blindfolded on a bus for about 10 minutes. When we got off the bus, lined up and took off our blindfolds to see the city, the golden dome came to life before our eyes.

Later on, during Shabbat, we walked from our hotel to the Kotel to celebrate and welcome Shabbat with hundreds of other people. Praying at the wall that our ancestors fought so hard for and dancing and singing with Jews from every nationality and background was a surreal experience that made us realize the unique connection that Judaism forms between people.

Also in Jerusalem, we spent one night walking around Ben Yehuda Street, awed by its vibrancy and life. Another day we had the opportunity to volunteer at Beit Canada and see how the Ethiopian refugees live, while brightening up the children’s days.

The other moment that stands out occurred during the International Congress with the other Diller cohorts from the U.S. and Israel. Other than the Shabbat service we spent together, we won’t ever be able to forget the phrase “Judaism is not a religion” which Avram Infeld, the President Emeritus, Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life, boldly said — rather yelled — at least 17 times in order to get across the idea that Judaism is not only a religion but a family, a culture and an identity. Whether we were on the beach in Ashkelon or volunteering, this phrase was proven true as our Diller cohort truly became a family with its own traditions, connections and sense of belonging.

This is the Diller program in a nutshell, and we are so grateful and ecstatic to have been a part of it and to be able to continue our growth through Diller as Junior Counselors.

What To Do In Baltimore This Week

Check out these great events sponsored by THE ASSOCIATED or ASSOCIATED agencies coming up this week in Baltimore.

Sunday, April 28
PJ on the Town at the Maryland Zoo

Join other young families at the Maryland Zoo for an afternoon of family fun, including a zoo-wide scavenger hunt, craft activity and animal encounters with a Zoo educator. This PJ Library event is sponsored by the Macks Center for Jewish Education (CJE) and Chizuk Amuno Congregation.
For more information on an afternoon of fun, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., go to cjebaltimore.org/pjtown.

Sunday, April 28
Arts and Crafts with Kids at the University of Maryland Medical Center
Jewish Volunteer Connection (JVC) invites teens to meet up with other teen volunteers to put a smile on the faces of kids who are undergoing treatment at the University of Maryland, Medical Center, 22 South Green Street. Make arts and crafts with patients during the two hours, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. For information, go to jvcbaltimore.org/jvc-programs/teens/high-school-opportunities/.

Tuesday, April 30
The Leo V. Berger Immigrants Trunk Program presents Bessie Bluefeld
If you grew up in Baltimore, most likely you heard of, if not attended, an event at the area’s premier kosher catering banquet hall, Bluefeld Caterers. This week, the Jewish Museum of Maryland is premiering its newest historical character, Bessie Bluefeld, a young immigrant woman who made a name for herself as the owner of Bluefeld’s.

Actress Terry Nicholetti portrays Baltimore icon, Bessie Bluefeld, in this free event, open to the public. Performance begins at 6:30 p.m. For information, go to jewishmuseummd.org.

Wednesday, May 1
Men’s Night Out is Back! Back! Back!

ESPN’s Chris Berman, NFL Studio Host and Anchor of “SportsCenter,” is coming to Baltimore for an ASSOCIATED Men’s Night Out. Berman will share behind-the-scenes stories of history’s greatest sports moments, including Cal Ripken Jr.’s record-breaking game, as well as talk about the power of teamwork. Maybe, he’ll even predict another Ravens Super Bowl victory!

Event begins at 7:00 p.m. at the M&T Bank Stadium. Program, which also includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, is $100 to attend, with a $180 minimum gift to THE ASSOCIATED Annual Campaign requested. Register to see Chris Berman at associated.org/mensnight.

Future Events
Sunday, May 5
Nurture Your Nature at the Pearlstone Center
Tap into the natural world at the Pearlstone Center’s beautiful, tranquil setting at this creative and inspired women-centered afternoon. Make cheese, pickles and more. Donate your handcrafted projects to community organizations. Then, discover hands-on-farming and learn about healthy living.

Sponsored by ASSOCIATED Women, “Nurture Your Nature” begins at 2:00 p.m. For information and to register, contact Carly Frank at cfrank@associated.org.

Tuesday, May, 14
JCC Lunch Spectacular Series Featuring Concert Pianist Carolyn Enger
Stop by the Weinberg Park Heights JCC, 5700 Park Heights Avenue, for lunch and music by renowned concert pianist, Carolyn Enger. Listen to the sounds of Enger as she performs Shavuot-themed pieces such as “Three Israeli Dances” by Robert Starer and “Five Pieces for Piano” by Paul Ben-Haim.
Program runs 11:45 a.m. – 1:45 p.m. Cost is $8 for JCC members and $12 for non-members. For information, call Sara Shvartzman at 410-500-5903 or register at sshvartzman@jcc.org.

Tuesday, May 21
JCS Parent Discussion Series
How do you raise great kids in today’s complicated world? Howard Reznick, Senior Manager of Jewish Community Services (JCS) Prevention Education, will tackle this question and provide tips on how to guide your child in making responsible and wise choices. This is the first of a monthly parent discussion series for parents of children of all ages.

This free program, also sponsored by the JCC, will be held at the JCS Owings Mills location, 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue and begins at 6:00 p.m. Babysitting is available for a small fee. For information and to register, contact Lorna Walsh at 410-843-7568 or lwalsh@jcsbaltimore.org.

Sunday, June 2
Israel65. Celebrate!
Join our community for a celebration of Israel’s 65th birthday, featuring Matisyahu, Jewish-American reggae and alternative rock musician. The day-long celebration also includes interactive activities for all ages, Israeli food and vendors, an innovation exhibit and much more.

Israel65. Celebrate! will be held at the Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC, 3506 Gwynnbrook Avenue, Owings Mills. Tickets are now on sale for the Matisyahu concert, which begins at 4:00 p.m. Prices are $25 for adults and $15 for children under 13. To purchase tickets, go to baltimoreisraelcoalition.org.