The JFCS Hag Sameach (“Happy Holidays”) program is a great opportunity to feel connected to the Jewish community, whether you are a recipient, donor or volunteer. Hag Sameach works with local synagogues, the Minnesota JCC, PRISM and other organizations to ensure that people in our community who are in need of extra assistance, both during the holidays and throughout the rest of the year, have a resource for holiday gifts and essential items. There are many ways to participate in this program and we are confident we will find the perfect fit for you!
More information here on our Winter Holidays and Passover programs.
Hag Sameach 2023 year in review
Mindy Teele, Hag Sameach Manager
952-542-4870 | mteele@jfcsmpls.org
J-Pride creates community through queer-focused Jewish programming for LGBTQ+ Jews and their allies throughout the Twin Cities. For more information on upcoming events and programming, “like” J-Pride on Facebook.
Hunter Wengersky, J-Pride Program Coordinator
952-417-2122 | hwengersky@jfcsmpls.org
The Disability Inclusion Program coordinates efforts in raising awareness and increasing access for people with disabilities to participate in all aspects of Jewish life.
Caring Connections
Caring Connections provides opportunities for Jewish adults with disabilities to take part in social and educational events and to engage in Jewish holidays, celebrations and traditions.
Stacey Spencer, Disability Services Manager
952-542-4845 | sspencer@jfcsmpls.org
JFCS’ NextGen program serves Jewish young adults ages 21-36 who are living in the Twin Cities. It provides participants with social engagements and programs, as well as volunteering and leadership opportunities. NextGen operates through a board of volunteers who serve as ambassadors of JFCS and help plan and implement NextGen events throughout the year.
> Donate to NextGen
> Become more involved
Molly Knopf, Development NextGen Coordinator
952-417-2124 | mknopf@jfcsmpls.org
PJ Library is an international award-winning program designed to strengthen Jewish identity by sending free, high-quality Jewish children’s books to families every month. But PJ Library doesn’t just send books — it helps families connect to Jewish values, traditions, and culture, while building vibrant Jewish communities. PJ Library Minneapolis hosts regular events for families in Minneapolis and surrounding suburbs. We’re proud to be part of a diverse global Jewish community, and we love connecting families who live and celebrate in so many ways. Any family raising Jewish children from newborn through age eight is invited to enroll. Sign up today at www.pjlibrary.org. To learn more about local PJ Library events, visit the PJ Library in MPLS Facebook page or the PJ Library Minneapolis Instagram page.
Geri Goldman, PJ Library Manager
952-417-2139 | ggoldman@jfcsmpls.org
PJ Our Way is the next chapter of PJ Library, for kids ages 9-12. PJ Our Way kids get to choose their own middle-grade book each month from a selection of fiction, nonfiction, and graphic novels featured on the PJ Our Way website. They can also submit reviews and videos about the books. In addition, participants can apply to be part of the national Design Team that has early access to PJ Our Way books and helps create content for the website. PJ Library Minneapolis also hosts local events for PJ Our Way kids to get to know each other. Sign up today at www.pjourway.com.
Geri Goldman, PJ Library Manager
952-417-2139 | ggoldman@jfcsmpls.org
Shalom Baby welcomes families with babies and toddlers into PJ Library and the broader Jewish community. Families with newborns are invited to a community baby shower to meet other families and receive swag bags with free goodies and discounts from community partners. PJ Library Minneapolis also hosts a monthly Shalom Baby Circle Time and Parent Connectors organize regular community gatherings for families with young children.
Geri Goldman, PJ Library Manager
952-417-2139 | ggoldman@jfcsmpls.org
