On Thursday, February 5, join Women's Philanthropy for a unique opportunity to learn about the services our community provides to those in need on the Jewish Women's Journey. "It's a wonderful chance for new and veteran women to see our campaign dollars in action," explained Meredith Russ, event chair. "Just as important, it is a great way to meet other like-minded women philanthropists."

This eye-opening experience begins with the participants gathering at a private home in Livingston. The morning itinerary includes a bus trip to see programs from two of MetroWest's beneficiary agencies: Jewish Vocational Service and Jewish Family Service’s Chai Café.

Since 1939, Jewish Vocational Service has provided comprehensive vocational, educational, and technical training at their main site in East Orange and throughout New Jersey. Among its many services, JVS provides job placement counseling for white-collar workers, guidance for active elderly, émigré resettlement, and vocational services for persons with disabilities. They reach 15,000 clients each year with the goal of helping people become independent once again.

Caren Ford, assistant executive director for program services, will give a tour and speak about the new MetroWest HELPS program for those affected by the current economic crisis.

At Chai Café, located at the IDT Headquarters in downtown Newark, the group will meet elderly Russian immigrants. Chai Café provides senior socialization programs aimed primarily at immigrants from the former Soviet Union.

Participants will also have an opportunity to hear Reuben Rotman, executive director of JFS, speak about the myriad programs that JFS offers to the MetroWest community, including adoption services, Hebrew Free Loan, and support for those experiencing domestic violence.

"I love visiting the agencies and meeting the people who truly benefit from our tzedakah...the clients themselves," said Russ. "This journey will certainly put names and faces to the programs we support in New Jersey!"

The afternoon portion of the program culminates with a luncheon and spiritual Tu B'Shevat seder led by Rabbi Paula Drill and a luncheon. Tu B'Shevat celebrates the New Year of the Trees and the fruits of Israel. Modeled on the Passover seder, the Tu B'Shevat seder includes drinking four cups of wine and eating various kinds of fruit and nuts native to Israel.

"This action-packed day is informative and exhilarating for all who attend," stated Andrea Bier, Women's Philanthropy Outreach vice president. "It's a perfect blend of witnessing first hand the fruits of Women's Philanthropy's dedicated work and at the same time celebrating the fruits of Israel at the inspirational seder."

For more details, contact Rebecca Missel at (973) 929-3061 or . All women in the community are invited to attend.
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United Jewish Communities of MetroWest NJ
901 Route 10 • Whippany, NJ 07981
Phone: (973) 929-3000 • Fax: (973) 884-7361
www.ujcnj.org •