May/June 2018
A publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis The strength of a people. The power of community.
Page 10: Super Sunday Superheroes
May/June 2018 In This Issue
Spring Has Sprung
From the Desk of the CEO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
After a long winter, the calendar has finally turned to spring and summer, the seasons of growth. This change in weather is not only literal but a metaphor for our community as well: Our Indianapolis Jewish community is on the cusp of great change and the buzz around the community of growth, engagement and new ideas is palpable. Jewish Indianapolis is ready to meet the new and exciting future that awaits.
Community Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Planned Giving & Endowment. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Women’s Philanthropy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Jewish Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 NEXTGen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 PJ Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Israel & Overseas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Shaliach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Super Sunday Superheroes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Bureau of Jewish Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Jewish Family Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Jewish Community Relations Council. . . . . . 14 Jewish Community Center, BBYO. . . . . . . . . . 15 Hasten Hebrew Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Indiana University Hillel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Synagogues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Israel Reflection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Callout for Committees . . . . . . . . . Back Cover Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis JFGI NEXTGen JFGI Israel Connections @JFGIndy @JFGINEXTGen
@JFGIndy @JFGINEXTGen
Jewish Federation News Exec. Vice President/CEO Debra Barton Grant
Editor Hanna Fogel
President Michael J. Rubin
Art Director Andrew Eberwine Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis, Inc. 6705 Hoover Road, Indianapolis, IN 46260-4120 Phone: 317-726-5450 • Fax: 317-205-0307 www.jewishindianapolis.org The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis is the central fundraising and community planning organization for the Indianapolis Jewish community. Since 1905 the Federation and its agencies – Jewish Family Services, the Jewish Community Center, the Bureau of Jewish Education, the Jewish Community Relations Council, and Hoover wood, a residential nursing home – have played a vital role in providing programs and services hat ever y day support roughly 2,000 individuals in central Indiana ever y day—Jewish as well as non-Jewish. The Federation, with an Annual Campaign of $3.9 million, resides on and manages a 40 -acre campus, but its impact enriches the lives of Jews locally, nationally, in Israel, and around the world.
OF GREATER INDIANAPOLIS
THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY.
It’s especially fitting that the Federation’s Annual Meeting also occurs at this time of year. Join us in the Laikin Auditorium on Wed., June 13 for an update on the state of the organization and the Indianapolis Jewish community at large, as well as a celebration of our incredible lay leaders—special thanks and congratulations to Mike Rubin on his first year as JFGI President! In response to the Indianapolis Jewish Community Study findings as well as requests from community members, engagement-focused initiatives have already begun to blossom: Indianapolis has joined the nationally recognized Jewish Teen Funders Network’s Foundation Board Incubator Cohort 4, which will exponentially increase opportunities for local Jewish youth philanthropy. We are looking for Jewish teens who are leaders in their schools or other civic organizations, including but not limited to those who might already be part of Indy-area BBYO/ NFTY chapters or synagogue confirmation classes. Read more on page 6! Along with all of the ideas and programs currently sprouting, we are also working to plant the seeds for our community’s next 3-5 years, and we need your help! On the next page, see how you can participate in a focus group that will shape community priorities and our strategic plan moving forward. Thanks to the Lilly Endowment for supporting these endeavors! Finally, JFGI constituent agencies Hooverwood and the JCC are in full bloom as they move toward the completion of their respective renovation projects. The JCC’s new locker rooms make their debut just in time for water park season, and Hooverwood continues to provide the same great care in a beautiful new space. Stop by and take a tour! Yasher koach to the entire Indianapolis Jewish community for wholeheartedly embracing a present and future full of possibility,
Debra Barton Grant Executive Vice President & CEO
Community Planning Strategic Plan Update
Planning plus+
JFGI has hired a consulting firm, Planning Plus, to work with the Federation and its agencies to create aligned long-range strategic plans and allocation impact models utilizing metrics PROFESSIONAL & ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT and outcomes to evaluate programmatic success. During the spring and early summer, Planning Plus will conduct a series of focus groups with community members, board members, agency and synagogue leadership, and donors to gather stakeholder inputs that will be used in developing the Federation and agency strategic plans. The strategic plans will provide the Federation and its agencies with:
Make Your Voice Heard Participate in focus groups moderated by Planning Plus and help shape the immediate future of the Indianapolis Jewish community!
• A set of defined community priorities (pillars) and action plans for 2019–2021 • Measurable goals, objectives, and metrics for each agency that are aligned with JFGI’s goals and objectives • Updated vision statements, organizational values, and mission statements • An evidence-based allocation model to help:
Wed., May 2, 9-10:30 am, JCC room A-25.
• Drive resource allocation to the Federation’s agencies and departments
Wed., May 2 or Thurs., May 10, 6-7:30 pm, BJE Domont Auditorium.
• Show measurable impacts
• Agencies be more accountable for defined outcomes
RSVP to indicate your attendance at jewishindianapolis.org/focus.
Get Involved • Interested in working in the Jewish community? Visit jewishindianapolis.org/career-center for a list of openings. • Stay up to date on Jewish community happenings using the Community Calendar at jewishindianapolis.org/calendar. • Sign up to receive JFGI e-newsletters at jewishindianapolis.org/eblast • Follow JFGI on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @jfgindy for all the latest news. • If you’re not receiving this magazine at home and would like to, call 317-726-5450, email fedfront@jfgi.org, or visit jewishindianapolis.org/magazine to be added to the mailing list. • To read the magazine online, visit issuu.com/jfgi, and click “follow” to be notified when new issues are uploaded.
OF GREATER INDIANAPOLIS
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Endowments = Our Jewish Future
Why
is your endowment gift essential to our community’s future?
• Your commitment demonstrates your belief in the continuity of Jewish life in Indianapolis for generations to come. • Your gift provides ongoing support for the Jewish organizations that make up the fabric of our community. Legacy Circle donors, Elliott & Linda Gold and family.
“We all strive to leave the world a better place through our children, our good deeds, and our generosity.”
How
can you create your own Jewish legacy?
Reflect …
• What causes are you passionate about? • What values do you want to pass on?
Give JFGI a call … • Please share your vision with Katy Cantor or Paula Goldberg at 317-726-5450.
JFGI is committed to ensuring the vibrancy of Jewish Indianapolis through its endowment programs.
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Jewish Federation News | May/June 2018
Women’s Philanthropy Meet the Co-Chairs: Leading Community and Inspiring Change The Federation has benefited from the leadership that women provide for generations. And in each generation, new leaders step up to empower and engage their peers in philanthropy. For the last two years, Beth Klapper and Michelle Korin have been co-chairing a new and growing Women’s Philanthropy program at the Federation. Both women have impressive volunteer leadership résumés, each leading in different areas of the Jewish community. Beth is a past President of the Bureau of Jewish Education and currently serves as an officer of the Federation. Michelle is just beginning her term as the American chair for the Central Area Consortium of the Western Galilee Partnership and is a member of the board of National Women’s Philanthropy of Jewish Federations of North America. Both were co-chairs of the Federation’s Annual Campaign, and each is a graduate of the ATID leadership development program.
Beth Klapper
Michelle Korin
Most importantly, they share a deep desire to engage more people in Jewish life. Working together with a steering committee, they are developing new programs and opportunities for women to engage in education, social programs, and philanthropic opportunities.
What are you hoping to accomplish this year with Women’s Philanthropy? Beth: Simply to be inspired and give back. Through Women’s Philanthropy we want to connect Jewish women in a meaningful way that is fun and does good work. We hope that women make new and lasting friendships and at the same time work to make our community a better place to live and raise our families. Michelle and I are hoping to add a few new events this year in addition to our traditional Lion of Judah/Pomegranate Luncheon. Stay tuned! We also hope to have many women join us for the International Lion of Judah Conference in Miami, FL, Jan. 13-15, 2019 for inspiration, education, innovation, and margaritas on the beach.
Michelle: Cultivating a group of committed volunteers to create structures for diverse programming, engagement, awareness of Federation and community service opportunities are goals we’ve set for the next 18 months. A driving motto for me is “Jewish women doing ‘good’ together.” We have careers, families and varied responsibilities, yet a common drive to gravitate toward women who share common values and have an interest in building a strong community here in Indianapolis.
Gigi Marks Felsher to be Honored at 2019 International Lion of Judah Conference JFGI Women’s Philanthropy is excited to honor Gigi Marks Felsher with the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award at the International Lion of Judah Conference in January 2019. This prestigious, internationally recognized award is given to Lions of Judah who have demonstrated the highest ideals of leadership and involvement. At the conference, Gigi will join other honorees chosen by their communities as “women of valor” with a lifetime of commitment to the Jewish world. The Indianapolis Jewish community has benefited from Gigi’s leadership for over 30 years. Gigi began her Federation activities as the Young Women’s Division Chair and progressed through the organization, serving on almost every committee. Leadership highlights include chairing Women’s Division and twice co-leading the Annual Campaign. Gigi is also an alumna of the National Young Gigi Marks Felsher Leadership Cabinet. From 2004- 2006, Gigi served as the Federation president, and most recently she chaired the Federation’s first community study in close to 80 years. To sign up for the 2019 International Lion of Judah Conference, visit lionconference.org.
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Jewish Education Indy Jewish Educators Invest in Ongoing Learning The JEdI (Jewish Educators of Indy) Council has begun hosting new cross-communal learning opportunities for teachers in the Jewish community. The first such program, Differentiation: Grounding Our Pedagogy in Jewish Values, was held on February 8. The evening of learning brought together educators from synagogues, Hasten Hebrew Academy, the JCC, and youth groups to deepen their knowledge of how to differentiate instruction for all learners, with a particular focus on students who have special needs. Participants also reflected upon their own classroom practices and identified ways they can learn from the messages students communicate through their behaviors, which can lead to more responsive teaching. For the 2018-2019 school year, multiple opportunities for Jewish educational professional development are in the works. The JEdI Council will offer a day of learning for teachers in the fall and is also organizing an extended series of seminars to deeply explore a particular topic, such as Understanding by Design. Lastly, the council is planning shared learning sessions for madrichim (classroom aides) and other teens who hold Jewish educational roles in synagogues or the JCC. Community leaders are excited by the collaborative initiative taken by the JEdI Council to expand professional development for all Jewish teachers, both professional and volunteer. Such an investment is certain to enrich the teachers and translate into improved Jewish educational experiences of all learners in the coming years.
Educators discuss how to make Jewish learning accessible to all.
Indianapolis Selected as Jewish Teen Funders Network Incubator Site JFGI is excited to announce that Indianapolis has been accepted into the fourth cohort of Jewish Teen Funders Network’s Foundation Board Incubator. This JTFN initiative, funded by Laura Lauder and the Maimonides Fund, partners with communities to launch new, high-investment, pluralistic and community-wide Jewish teen philanthropy programs. Utilizing experiential education, Jewish teen foundations introduce teens to collective grantmaking. The group process is guided by Jewish values and provides teens with opportunities to engage, hands-on, in tzedakah (charity), gemilut chasadim (acts of loving-kindness), and tikkun olam (repairing the world) through strategic philanthropy. Through this JTFN program, Indianapolis joins an international group of communities sharing best practices and developing meaningful ways to engage local teens. Foundation Board Incubator programs span the U.S. and the globe, reaching from coast to coast and into Australia, Canada, and Israel. Indianapolis’ local JTFN initiative is called YoPhI (Youth Philanthropy Indy). In modern Hebrew ֹי ִפי/ yophi is a slang expression meaning “excellent” or “good job.” At its core, YoPhI aims to engage Jewish youth in the greater Indianapolis Jewish community in “doing good” through philanthropic giving and service learning grounded in Jewish values and community connection.
Applications for the inaugural YoPhI Teen Board are currently open to teens who will be in 11th or 12 th grade during the 2018-2019 school year. For more information about the program and to access an application, visit jewishindianapolis.org/yophi or contact Nina Price, JFGI Director of Jewish Education Initiatives, at nprice@jfgi.org.
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Jewish Federation News | May/June 2018
NEXTGen / PJ Library Give a Shvitz | Sweat for a Cause
National Young Leadership Summer Mission Mon., July 2–Sun., July 8 Travel deeper with other young adults (22-45) from across North America on the one Israel mission that takes you beyond tourism. Together you’ll experience firsthand the developments Israel has made in the areas of politics, technology, culture, and preserving tradition, and connect with Federation’s strategic partners on the ground that are working to make Israel a more vibrant place for all. For more information, contact Matthew at mkmorning@jfgi.org.
Come “give a shvitz” with young adults in the Jewish Community. This NEXTGen initiative hosts fitness classes geared toward adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s, from which all proceeds benefit a chosen program or organization in the Jewish community. Past events include a yoga class in the JCC’s group exercise studio which raised money for Camp JCC scholarships and a spinning class at Cyclebar to help lone soldiers in Israel. Check out JFGI NEXTGen on Facebook to see what’s NEXT!
Watch the PJ Library of Greater Indianapolis Facebook page for fun summer get-togethers.
Save the Dates Shavuot Waffles & Ice Cream Brunch Sun., May 20, 10-11:30 am, BRICS; 901 E. 64th St.
Intergenerational Shabbat Playdate Fri., June 8 and Fri., July 13, 10-11 am, Hooverwood. Open to all ages!
PJ Goes to Camp Sun., July 1, time TBA, GUCI; 9349 Moore Rd., Zionsville, 46077 Questions? Want to get involved? Email PJ Library Coordinator Leah Aft at laft@jfgi.org!
PJ Library Did you know that PJ Library provides FREE age-appropriate books with Jewish content mailed directly to your home on a monthly basis? These books are available for children ages 6 months to 8 years old. PJ Our Way (PJOW), the next step in ageappropriate books, is available for children ages 9-11 years old. Join close to 700 area children in receiving these books by signing up at pjlibrary.org. Along with providing free books to families raising Jewish children, PJ Library in Greater Indianapolis provides low-barrier, fun programming striving to make Jewish life accessible. Getting out into the community and providing programming in public spaces is one of the ways PJ Library is working to accomplish this goal. In March, over 55 children and their parents enjoyed prePassover celebrations with PJ Library. Designed specifically for elementary school-aged children, PJ Library offered a private Seder Plate Painting event at 4 Kids Books and Toys in Zionsville featuring a Seder Plate taste test. The following week, PJ families were invited to bake matza at Market District in a private cooking class cosponsored by NEXTGen. Participants also decorated matza with edible paints, decorated afikoman holders, and enjoyed Seder plate painting Matza cooking class a PJ Library storytime. w w w.jewi s h i nd ia nap ol i s .o rg
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Israel & Overseas Indianapolis Israeli Film Festival
All screenings in the JCC’s Laikin Auditorium unless otherwise noted.
JFNA National GA Mission to Israel
Maktub – Sun., July 15; 6:30 pm opening reception, 7 pm screening at the Athenaeum (401 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis). After criminals Steve and Chuma end up as the sole survivors of a deadly terrorist attack, they begin granting wishes from notes that have been placed in the Western Wall.
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Oct. 17-24, 2018 (land only)
Pre-trip to the Western Galilee, Oct. 15-16
An Israeli Love Story – Mon., July 16, 7 pm screening. Based on the true story of the 1940s love affair between Pnina Gal and Eli Ben-Tzvi, son of Israel’s second president.
Join JFNA’s 70 th Anniversary Mission and celebrate Israel’s milestone birthday. Meet the people. Experience Federation’s work. The GA (General Assembly) in Tel Aviv is the capstone of the journey.
The Testament – Tues., July 17, 1 pm. When Holocaust researcher Yoel examines classified files in an attempt to stop construction on land where a brutal massacre took place, to his surprise he finds a previously unseen testimony from his mother.
• Explore the Negev. See how Federation is helping transform this desert region into a dynamic technological hub and cultural center.
Shelter – Tues., July 17, 7 pm. Israeli Mossad agent Naomi is sent to Hamburg, Germany to protect Mona, a Lebanese informant recovering from plastic surgery in order to assume her new identity. Stuck in an apartment together for two weeks, the relationship they develop is soon exposed to the inescapable threat of terror.
• Uncover Jerusalem. Judaism’s holiest city. Home to a complex urban mosaic. Meet its people. Probe its paradoxes. • Take in Tel Aviv. Capital of Start-up Nation. Home to electrifying nightlife, beautiful beaches and more.
The Testament – Wed., July 18, 7 pm.
(The Testament description listed with July 17 showing above)
The Essential Link: The Story of Wilfrid Israel – Thurs., July 19, 7 pm. The story of Wilfrid Israel, a wealthy Jewish businessman and owner of Berlin’s largest department store in the 1930s, who helped save thousands of Jews and played a key role in the Kindertransport operation. Title sponsored by Myron and Myrna Weinberger; Myron will speak at the screening.
• Go early and discover the beauty of the Western Galilee and enjoy home hospitality. For more information, contact Michèle Boukai at mboukai@jfgi.org.
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“Taste of Memory” helped me connect to the incredible soldiers’ stories not just from hearing about them from a close friend but experiencing their favorite foods. Now when I make schnitzel or banana bread I will forever be reminded of the sacrifice that Oren and Gilad made. – Stephanie Dlatt
Taste of Memory
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1. Oren Noach, 2. Yani Tuvia Weisman, 3. Gilad Fisher, 4. Gilad Stuckelman, and 5. Sharon Chen
The “Taste of Memory” program was created two years ago to help connect communities to Yom HaZikaron, or Israel Memorial Day. In each session, participants cook and taste the favorite foods of fallen Israeli soldiers and victims of terrorism, using recipes submitted by their families, while learning about the people the dishes represent. So far, Indianapolis-area gatherings have featured meals loved by Oren Noach, Yani Tuvia Weisman, Gilad Fisher, Gilad Stuckelman, and Sharon Chen, all of whom have personal connections to JFGI shaliach/Israeli emissary Roie Gonen.
Jewish Federation News | May/June 2018
Partnership2Gether Educators Delegation In March, seven educators from the Western Galilee, Indianapolis’ partner region in Israel, came to visit. They spent four days in Indianapolis and had a packed schedule: they delved into the city’s history with former Jewish Community Campus Coordinator and lifelong Indianapolis resident Elliott Gold, interacted and built relationships with local schools and educators, and formed connections with institutions like the Hasten Hebrew Academy and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Special thanks to the generous host families who opened their homes and hearts to the group!
Partnership2Gether educators delegation outside the JCC.
HHAI students putting together a Partnership2Gether puzzle.
Partnership2Gether delegation at The Children’s Museum.
Partnership2Gether teachers present their Israeli map art project at HHAI.
HHAI students showing their virtual reality program to a teacher.
Save the Date “People of the Western Galilee” Interfaith Photo Exhibit and Program
Partnership2Gether educators and Shaarey Tefilla Sunday school students show off their Certificates of Appreciation.
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Super Sunday Superheroes 100 volunteers. Hundreds more who “answered the call.” Over $200,000 raised in a single day, more than twice the original goal. A successful Super Sunday takes a superhuman effort. At the end of February, volunteers from all corners of the community came together to use their powers for good in support of the Federation’s 2018 Annual Campaign. In their own words, here’s why these valiant advocates decided that this was one mission they chose to accept.
SUPER SUNDAY 20 IT TAKES JUST ONE CALL TO CHANGE A LIFE (CHAI)
I’ve been a Super Sunday volunteer for more years than I can remember. When I worked at the Academy, I felt that it was so important to support the Federation since they were supporting us. I still feel it’s important to support them since they continue to support the Academy as well as other Jewish agencies. I support the campaign for the same reasons. - Marcy Ekhaus, former Hasten Hebrew Academy school administrator
This was my first year volunteering for Super Sunday! It seemed like an easy way to help give back to an organization and a community that has given me so much! - Erica Abrams, NEXTGen committee member
I’ve been doing Super Sunday for a long time. I started because my cousin Elliott asked me, and you help family, but I stayed because it’s a good way to help people who need food and clothes and to help Israel. - Michael Silver, Long-time resident of jacobs Home
Supported by JFGI, Jacobs Home Inc. is the Jewish community of Indianapolis' Group Home.
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Jewish Federation News | May/June 2018
The strength of a people. The power of community. I’ve volunteered for Super Sunday the past two years. I do so, first of all, because I believe in the wider mission of JFGI and realize that it is a good investment of time and money. The Federation’s varied results and accomplishments are astounding and widespread. The actual Super Sunday work allows us to be in touch with supporters and demonstrate mutual commitment to the goals of the Federation. It’s also an opportunity to further inform folks of aspects of the work of the Federation and its constituent agencies. It allows me to engage in some fact-based bragging about all the benefits that the Federation brings to the wider community. - Kent Newton, JCC board member
I have been a JFGI Super Sunday volunteer for two years, and a Super Sunday volunteer in general since I was a baby! We have been bringing Butler Hillel students to volunteer for two years as well. It is important for me to volunteer my time for Super Sunday because I value the work the Federation does for our community — supporting Jewish Family Services, Jewish education, and programming and assistance to and for our entire Indianapolis community. I think it is important to show Butler Hillel students that volunteering not just our money, but our time, is essential to building a strong and vibrant community. I know that the student leaders at Butler Hillel are already becoming leaders in their home Jewish communities because of the experience, opportunities, and education we provide for them here in Indianapolis. - Dori Chandler, Coordinator of Jewish Life at Butler University
But with great power comes great responsibility: of the 2018 goal to surpass $4 million, $2.3 million has been raised to date, which leaves $1.7 million to raise over the next 6-7 months. A daunting task, but one the Indianapolis Jewish community can certainly achieve.
$2.3 Million
Special thanks to Eric Ratner for chairing his second consecutive Super Sunday, and to all the volunteers and donors who helped make the event possible and so incredibly successful.
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Hooverwood / Bureau of Jewish Education Hooverwood Welcomes New Director of Nursing
Becky Nash, RN
In February, Becky Nash was hired as Hooverwood’s new Director of Nursing. Becky comes to Hooverwood with over 30 years’ experience in nursing at St Vincent Hospital and other local nursing homes. She has held positions as DON, Chief Clinical Officer and CEO/Administrator both in Indiana and Ohio. Becky lives near Hooverwood and has an open-door policy for residents, families and staff.
Hooverwood Guild Annual Card Party and Luncheon Wed., May 9, 11 am-4 pm, Market District (11505 N. Illinois St., Carmel). $23, payable to: Hooverwood Guild 7001 Hoover Rd., Indianapolis, IN 46260 Your check is your reservation! RSVP by Wed., May 2. Door prizes! All proceeds benefit Hooverwood. Questions? Contact Judy Himelstein at 317-445-5083 or Babs Cohn at 317-698-1998.
Hooverwood Makes “Fresh” the Next Big Thing in Senior Living Hooverwood’s 115-year history has earned it recognition and respect as the leading Jewish skilled nursing facility in the Indianapolis area. Now, the nursing home is taking steps to become as respected for its culinary artistry as it is for resident care. “This is home for our residents. For many, home centers around the dining table. That’s where residents meet, talk and engage. So we feel a special responsibility to provide an experience that honors tradition and lifestyle,” says Hooverwood CEO Evan Lubline. “It’s time to reinvigorate our dining services, so we’re bringing in the best partner in the industry to help us focus on fresh, made-fromscratch dining.”
Hooverwood Assisted Living coming in Fall 2018. Call Brittany Scheidt, Director of Community Relations & Sales, at 317-607-1730 (cell phone) for more information.
Grinspoon Teacher Excellence Award The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis and The Bureau of Jewish Education are pleased to present a community teacher with the Grinspoon Award for Excellence in Jewish Education. Since 2000, this national program has recognized outstanding individuals throughout North America making a difference through their work in Jewish education. In honor of Indianapolis’ first year participating in the Grinspoon Teacher Excellence Award program coinciding with Israel’s 70 th birthday, the nomination process sought out not only excellent teachers who are committed to their own growth and that of their students but also individuals who deepen learners’ connection to Israel. Each school and early childhood program in the Indianapolis Jewish community had the opportunity to nominate a teacher to receive this award, which includes national recognition by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation along with a monetary award. The selection committee, made up of lay leaders from the BJE Board, had a difficult task selecting from among the many teachers nominated. Mazel tov to Clara Sharon, the Head Hebrew, Judaic, and Pre-K Music Teacher at Congregation Beth-El Zedeck Early Childhood Center, who was selected as the winner!
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Jewish Federation News | May/June 2018
Clara Sharon
BJE Dalet Hebrew School Graduation Sun., May 6, 5 pm, JCC Laikin Auditorium Celebrate with this year’s Hebrew school graduates and their families at the last BJE Dalet graduation. The program will begin with readings and songs by the students, followed by gift and award presentations and a tribute to BJE teachers (Yossi Cohen, Shoshi Roland, Rotem Calili, Shay Wallach, Dina David-Smith, Jeff Linkon, Judy Meyersberg, and Tamar David) and staff (Michelle Waugh, Sheila Warfield, Detrise Williams, Dawn Meyer, and Kevin Easley), some of whom have been with the school for over 30 years. The students will then attend a special party in the Domont Auditorium at the BJE with a DJ, pizza, and lots of snacks.
Jewish Family Services Older Americans Month — Engage at Every Age Every May, the Administration on Aging, part of the Administration for Community Living, leads the U.S.’s observance of Older Americans Month. The 2018 theme, Engage at Every Age, emphasizes that you are never too old (or young) to take part in activities that can enrich your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The Jewish community offers several ways for older adults to engage. From Seniors in Place activities to Silver Sneakers exercise programs at the Jewish Community Center to socializing at Jewish Family Services’ Libby & David Fogle Lunch Bunch or through the KAVOD Holocaust Survivors program (pictured to the right), there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Celebrate Older Americans Month with JFS and the Libby & David Fogle Lunch Bunch! Thurs., May 24, noon-1 pm in the JCC’s Laikin Auditorium.
(L to R): The KAVOD group poses outside of the AMC Theater before an opera showing, a furry friend greeted Raisa Shteyn and Irina Petrenko at the Carmel ice skating rink, and everyone on the bus after an enriching day.
Save the Date
Friends Over 90 Celebration Lunch Wed., June 27, Noon-2 pm
Questions? Contact Pamela Eicher at peicher@jfgi.org or 317-715-6981.
Babushka’s Kitchen Cookbooks for Sale Have you purchased your copy of Babushka’s Kitchen yet? In this compilation of recipes from the Former Soviet Union submitted by local Indianapolis Jewish community members, you’ll find the secret to making a delicious sharlotka (apple cake), savory pirozhkis, and much more. Visit jewishindianapolis.org/kavod to order. Cookbooks are $12.50 per copy; pick yours up at JFS (6905 Hoover Rd., Indianapolis) or, for an extra fee, have it shipped directly to your door. All proceeds support JFS’ KAVOD Holocaust Survivors program!
(L to R): Vegetarian pirozhkis, Olivier (potato) salad, borscht (beet soup), and sharlotka (apple cake) squares
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Jewish Community Relations Council Building Community to Combat Antisemitism The Indianapolis JCRC was founded 75 years ago to combat Antisemitism and safeguard the Jewish community through building community partnerships, education, and advocacy work. With the FBI reporting that Jews are the #1 victims of religiously motivated hate crimes and the AntiJCRC and the Muslim Alliance Boards Defamation League at a dinner together documenting substantial increases in Antisemitic incidents (up 113% in the Midwest in 2017 over 2016), JCRC is more committed than ever to addressing Antisemitism. Over the past two years, JCRC has intentionally “Claimed Our Space” within greater Indianapolis by bringing Israel-related programming to the community-at-large and by supporting Jewish students on central Indiana campuses as they address anti-Israel programming or boycott resolutions. Over the next two years, JCRC will be “Amplifying Our Voice” by increasing its presence at programs and events hosted by a range of organizations in the community-at-large and by building more personal, meaningful relationships with people in various faith, ethnic, and minority communities. The newly created Community Engagement and Intergroup Affairs Committee will enable individual members of the Jewish community to personally meet, engage, and collaborate with members of the Black, Latino, LGBTQ+ and Muslim communities in Indianapolis. Programming is already underway: the Muslim-Jewish Women’s Alliance launched in February 2017, and the Black-Jewish Partnership of Indianapolis began in September 2017.
Save the Dates JCRC Annual Meeting
Tues., May 22, 7 pm, Hasten Hebrew Academy of Indianapolis
Teacher Training: How to Teach about the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Sun., July 8, 3-6:15 pm and Mon., July 9, 9 am-12:15 pm Contact Marla Topiol at mtopiol@indyjcrc.org for more on this and other programs.
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JCRC will also commit to providing a much-needed platform for diverse voices and experiences within the Jewish community. The Community Engagement Committee will thoughtfully consider ways to meaningfully engage with, share the narratives of, and learn from Black, LGBTQ+, Latino, and disabled Jews. Sharing experiences together — a meal, a conversation, advocacy, or a social action project — is indispensable in the fight against rising Antisemitism and anti-Zionism. To learn more about efforts to “Amplify Our Voice” or to share your story, email Aaron Welcher at awelcher@indyjcrc.org.
Jewish Federation News | May/June 2018
Civic Leader Study Tour Recap Greg and Megan Maurer, Steve and Beth Klapper In February, we facilitated an inspirational civic mission study tour to Israel under the auspices of the Jewish Community Relations Council. We hosted 16 non-Jewish civic leaders from Indianapolis from the business, academic, nonprofit and faith-based communities. Each participant is a leader in his or her field and a prominent decisionmaker in central Indiana. Over the 10 days in Israel, we visited Tel Aviv, Akko, Tiberias, and Jerusalem, and heard from experts in history, culture, religion, politics, and security. We saw the vulnerability of Israel’s communities on the borders with Lebanon, Syria and Gaza, met with a panel to discuss the unique story of Ethiopian Jewry, enjoyed Druze hospitality, engaged with a prominent Palestinian pollster, and visited Jewish, Christian and Muslim religious sites. The highlight of the journey was getting to know the people on the mission and the Israelis we met along the way, especially in our partnership region of Western Galilee. In addition to lovely evenings in our hosts’ homes, our group met with physicians who treat victims of the Syrian civil war at the Western Galilee Medical Center, saw the underground emergency department our community helped create, and heard from Arab and Jewish women who live together in the region and now cook, eat, talk, and break down barriers together. The people we met, celebrated Shabbat with, and learned from made the experience personal and impactful for our participants and, indeed, for each of us as well.
Jewish Community Center
Taste of
An Evening with Peter Sagal Behind the Scenes with Radio’s Funniest Program As the host of National Public Radio’s Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me!, Peter Sagal is heard by more than 3 million people every week on 450 public radio stations nationwide and via a popular podcast. The hour-long show has captivated news junkies across the country with its lighthearted approach to current events. It has become the weekend’s biggest and most beloved radio show, a revival of You Bet Your Life crossed with the irreverence of The Daily Show. Attendees will have an opportunity to purchase Sagal’s book, The Book of Vice (Naughty Things and How to Do Them), and have him autograph it following the program. The book is a series of comic essays about people who misbehave, why they misbehave, and why they’re not necessarily having more fun than you are. The Orlando Sentinel said, “ … The Book of Vice is that kind of book full of passages so deliciously funny you keep elbowing the nearest person and saying, ‘Listen, I just have to read you this bit…’”
Sunday, June 10
7–8:30 pm (doors open at 6:30) $25 Early Bird special $30 starting May 25 To accommodate a larger audience, the reception and the program will take place at Congregation Beth-El Zedeck (600 W. 70th St. Indianapolis, IN 46260).
VIP Reception VIP special includes wine and appetizer reception with Peter Sagal, reserved seats and entry to the program.
Sun, Jun 10
5:45–6:45 pm $75 per person
Evening sponsored by: Media sponsor:
Bluff Peter Sagal Enjoy Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me’s “Bluff the Listener” segment? Enter for a chance to bluff Peter Sagal himself and see how much he knows about the Indianapolis Jewish community in the JFGI/JCCsponsored story contest “Not My Jewish Community!” Submitted stories must specifically tie in the Indianapolis Jewish community. The stories should be funny, ridiculous, and EITHER plausible or true. Please keep stories limited to 175 words or less. Multiple entries accepted. Two plausible stories and one true story will be selected to be read at the June 10 event. The winners of the contest (the writers of the stories that are selected) will each receive a copy of Peter Sagal’s book The Book of Vice. All submissions must be made by Fri., May 18. Visit bit.ly/IndyPeterSagal to enter. w w w.jewi s h i nd ia nap ol i s .o rg
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Hasten Hebrew Academy Woman of Valor HHAI’s annual Woman of Valor program took place on March 6. A terrific crowd was in attendance for an amazing evening of drama, dance and song. The rich diversity of women depicted from Biblical to contemporary eras and the on-demand writing empowered HHAI students to find their unique voices in celebration of the Jewish woman, the Eishet Chayil.
Letters about Literature HHAI is proud to announce that Yael Cohen has won first place in the state Letters About Literature contest for the second year in a row for level 2 (7th and 8th grade) and Yehuda Noff has won first place for level 1 (5th and 6th grade). These two letters were chosen as the best in the state from a pile of 1,550! Suzanne Walker of the Indiana Center for the Book said, “[Yael’s] letter to Marcus Samuelsson, author of the book Yes, Chef, resonated with the judges and we are extremely pleased that her letter will represent Indiana in Washington, D.C. as we send it on to the national competition.” Yehuda’s letter to Sheila Cole, author of the book The Dragon in the Cliff, will also be moving on to national-level competition. In addition, Alexander Vasquez-Jaffe took the state’s second place and Shay Orentlicher earned honorable mention in level 2, as did Yael Epstein for level 1. Nine other students placed as semifinalists.
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Testimonial by HHAI parent Brent Epstein I was never fortunate enough to attend the Hasten Hebrew Academy as a student. I always knew it had an excellent reputation for secular and Judaic studies, but I never set foot within the building. I suspect many lifelong Indianapolis residents have experienced the same. It makes total sense: why would you pay money for an excellent education when there are wonderful public schools around you? When I became a parent, I began looking for a different “Jewish” experience for my children. I attended synagogue as a child regularly for Sunday school and occasionally on Shabbat, but my wife and I decided we wanted our children to identify as Jews every day of their lives, not just on the weekends. We also wanted our kids to experience the rich diversity of HHAI. We wanted our kids to be in a school populated with Reform, Conservative and Orthodox Jews, Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews, and Jews from throughout the diaspora. All those goals were easily accomplished, but what we didn’t anticipate was the effect it would have on our own family. We found meaningful discussion at the nightly dinner table, a craving for family time on Shabbat, and a love for the Jewish holidays. As adults, this became a re-entry into Judaism we weren’t really seeking. We thought we were just helping our children build a Jewish identity, but in doing so we found ours. If you’ve never set foot inside the Hasten Hebrew Academy, I ask you to take the chance like we did. Who knows? It could change your and your children’s lives, too.
Jewish Federation News | May/June 2018
Indiana University Hillel Meet IU Hillel’s Israel Fellow/Israel Program Director, Elana Huvard Indiana University has over 4,0 0 0 Jewish students on campus and a ver y small staff relative to the size of the Jewish student population. Prior to the Israel Fellow/Israel Program Director position, IU Hillel staff simply did not have the size or bandwidth to build a strong, comprehensive Israel strategy. Luckily, after living in Israel for the past nine years, Elana Huvard, her husband Asi, and their young daughter came to Bloomington in August 2017, and IU Hillel’s Israel program is already reaping the rewards. Elana has taken IU Hillel’s Israel strategy to the next level, focusing on Israel education, advocacy programs, Taglit– Birthright Israel recruitment and follow-up, and promotion of Israel study abroad opportunities. She has built relationships with Jewish students on campus and engages them in planning Israel programming. She also works with proIsrael advocacy groups and proactively prevents anti-Israel activity by providing Israel education to the IU campus, bringing in speakers like Neil Lazarus (who spoke to an audience of over 20 0 students) and a StandWithUs Israeli Soldiers Tour. In March, Elana brought together the largest group of students yet to host another year of Israelpalooza, a huge block party festival. The celebration featured Israeli food, exhibits about Israeli life and culture and a tzedakah food packaging project that demonstrated Israel’s foundational value of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and highlighted Israel’s humanitarian programs such as IsraAID and Save a Child’s Heart. Through the Hoosiers for Israel program, which she has reinvigorated and taken to the highest level ever on the IU campus, Elana empowers students to take leadership roles in sponsoring regular Israeli social, cultural and educational events, some on a weekly basis and others that are onetime-only.
Birthright Israel recruitment
Boker Brunch at IU Hillel
Cooking Class
Weekly programs have included: •
Boker Brunch, where students schmooze while enjoying a delicious Israel-themed brunch including shakshuka, various cheeses and Israeli salads labeled in Hebrew and English.
•
A Jewish and Israeli cooking class, in which students learn about classic American Jewish cuisine but also get a taste of Israeli foods like falafel, borekas, and more.
•
Elana with students in the Bedouin Tent
Café Tel Aviv, a program for students who want to grab a coffee and have a Hebrew-only discussion about Israeli current events.
One-time program highlights include a shakshuka cookoff, an Israeli cinema night, and a Bedouin Tent event complete with music, food, and the opportunity to preregister for IU Hillel’s Birthright Israel trips. To help fund this important program, please call Rabbi Sue Silberberg at 812-336-3824. Israeli advocate Neil Lazarus
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Synagogues Congregation Beth-El Zedeck Cocktail Judaism: Mon., May 7 and June 4, 7:30 pm, Matteo’s (1351 W. 86th St.): Conversation, humor, and spirits, hosted by Rabbi Dennis Sasso. Topic: “Varieties of Jewish Experience” – respectively, “The Distinctiveness of Conservative Judaism” with Rabbi Benjamin Sendrow and “The Distinctiveness of Reconstructionist Judaism” with Rabbi Dennis Sasso. Monthly Healing & Renewal Service: Wed., May 16, 5:45 pm. A contemplative and musical service with Rabbi Shelley Goldman. Tot Shabbat: Sat., May 19, 9:3010:15 am. A musical Shabbat service with Rabbi Shelley Goldman for kids ages 0-3 and their families. RSVP to sgoldman@bez613.org. Confirmation: Sat., May 19, 6 pm. BEZ 10th graders will confirm their commitment to Judaism in a beautiful service that includes an original Cantata. Adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah Celebration: Sun., May 20, 10 am. BEZ’s current adult Bar/Bat Mitzvah class will be called to the Torah as the congregation celebrates the giving of the Torah on Mt. Sinai. Early Childhood Center Registration for Summer Camp 2018 and 201819 School Year still open. Summer camp begins Mon., June 4. Ages 12 mos. – Pre-K (Kindergarten readiness). Open to the public. Contact Joanie Waldman at jwaldman@bez613.org or 317-259-6854 for the latest brochures. Shabbat in the Woods: Fri., June 22, 6 pm. A musical outdoor service followed by dinner and a visit from the ice cream truck. Details to come on the BEZ website. Visit bez613.org for other BEZ information.
Congregation Beth Shalom Tot Shabbat: Sat., May 5, 9 am. All young children and their favorite adults are invited to attend this Tot Shabbat filled with crafts, stories and music. Contact Jen Warriner at jenwarriner@gmail.com. Living Room Learning “Myths You Learned in Religious School”: Sun., May 6, 2-4 pm, 12963 Ratliff Run, Fishers. Join in the discussion as some of the most treasured Religious School stories are challenged and possibly debunked! Contact: indylynn1024@gmail.com. Teacher Appreciation Shabbat: Fri., May 11, 6:30 pm. Welcome Shabbat as CBS’ Religious School staff is honored by the congregation. Oneg to follow.
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Family Promise: Thurs., May 17, 5-7:30 pm. Provide dinner and hospitality to families in need of assistance in collaboration with CBS’ partners at Second Presbyterian Church. Contact Barbi Stenacker at stenacker@comcast.net. Special Shabbat Service “Unequal Treatment of Women Under the Law”: Fri., May 25, “pre-neg” 6 pm, services 6:30 pm. Guest speaker Sheila Kennedy will present this timely topic. She is currently a professor of law and policy at IUPUI, an adjunct professor of political science at the Kelley School of Business, and was the director of the Indiana Civil Liberties Union from 1992 until just recently. Daven and Dine to follow services. Gleaners Food Bank: Sat., June 9, 9:30 am-12:45 pm. CBS families with children ages 9+ and adults will be volunteering at the Gleaner Food Pantry. All are welcome to participate. Contact Isabel Atlas at ieatlas@aol. com. Living Room Learning “Bees and Honey, Nectar of Gods”: Sun., June 17, 2-4 pm. Bee enthusiast Kevin Mercer will answer all your questions about the ancient art of beekeeping. For more details and location, contact indylynn1024@gmail.com. Please consult CBS’ calendar at bethshalomindy.org for more offerings and details of upcoming Shabbat and Shavuot services.
Congregation Shaarey Tefilla Mother’s Day Breakfast: Sun., May 13, 10 am-noon. Once again CST Men’s Club will be cooking a full Mother’s Day breakfast including juice, eggs, hash browns, bagels, lox, herring, coffee and more. Immediate family of four $36, or $12.50/person (under 7 no charge). Reservations must be made by May 9. Please make checks payable to CST Men’s Club. Payment can be dropped off at the synagogue or mailed to Shaarey Tefilla c/o CST Men’s Club. Looking for Hebrew/Religious Education for Your Kids? Registration is now open for CST’s exciting new program for grades 1-8, incorporating Hebrew language and Jewish values with the ShalomLearning curriculum! Members and non-members welcome. For more CST information, contact 317-733-2169 or office@shaareytefilla.org.
Etz Chaim Sephardic Congregation Shabbat Service and Oneg honoring LIFE & LEGACY Members: Sat., May 5, 9 am
Jewish Federation News | May/June 2018
MD Speaker Series #2: Thurs., May 10, 7:30 pm. A community physician will share their specialty or life journey in a lecture and dessert evening. Event open to and free for the community. Memorial Day Observance at Etz Chaim Cemetery: Mon., May 28. Join Etz Chaim in honoring heroes, placing flags, and reciting the Kaddish. Casbah at the Etz 2018 (Annual Gala): Sun., June 10, 5-8 pm. An elegant reception and silent auction followed by an amazing Moroccan/ Mediterranean dinner. Daily services: Shacharit at 7 am Friday night services: Varies with sunset Shabbat morning services: 9 am, followed by oneg. Weekly Classes: Shabbat, 8:30 am; Wednesday and Thursday, 8 pm Torah Espresso Women’s Class: Every other Sunday, 11 am, Starbucks at 86th and Ditch Find event details on JFGI’s community calendar, Facebook @EtzChaimIndy, and etzchaimindy.org. Contact the office for additional information at 317-251-6220 or information@etzchaimindy.org.
Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation “May the 4th be with you” IFTYled Senior Recognition Service: Fri., May 4, 6:15 pm. If you are a senior in high school and you would like to be recognized, mail Lea Coleman at leac@ihcindy.org. There may or may not be some Star Wars references! Shabbat Playdate: Sat., May 5, 9:3011 am. For kids ages 0-6. Meet new families, spend time with friends, and enjoy the spirit of Shabbat. Jewish Book Club: Tues., May 8 and June 12, noon, IHC Room 206. Read the book, bring your lunch and join the discussion. Respectively, the selected books are Ways to Disappear by Idra Novey and The Chosen by Chaim Potok. IFTY Elections and Lock-In: Sat.Sun., May 12-13, drop-off 5 pm, pick-up 8:30 am. Email the current advisor Lea at leac@ihcindy.org for more info. Nefesh Shabbat: Fri., May 18 and June 15. A musically spiritual way to welcome Shabbat. Includes z’man kodesh, a sacred time for children. Erev Shavuot and Confirmation: Sat., May 19, 5:30-8:15 pm Shavuot Yizkor: Mon., May 21, 10:30 am GUCI Ice Cream Social: Sun., June 3, 4 pm. If you’re attending GUCI this summer, stop by IHC to meet some of the GUCI leaders! Please RSVP to leac@ihcindy.org.
Israel Reflection Journey from Ethiopia to Israel by Greg Maurer
I first met Demas at a posh Israeli hotel over sushi and Golani wine. He wore a lone soldier jacket and a smile that belied the burden he shouldered. Together, we journeyed to his homeland of Ethiopia, hanging out, drinking local beer, eating spicy food, and dancing (poorly) to traditional music. It wasn’t until we arrived at the place where his family’s mud hut once stood in the village of Gojjam that I truly understood the struggle that almost robbed him of his joyful zest for life. Like Demas’ childhood, his hut had been swept away. His smile dissolved as he explained the deep sadness he harbored from his harrowing journey. He began with, “Although I am only 23 years old, I’m carrying on my back the weight of many tragedies.”
Demas telling his story where his mud hut once stood.
After his father’s death, in 2007, 13-year-old Demas made aliyah to Israel with his mother and siblings. They had just moved into their first apartment when Demas’ mother died of cancer, leaving him an orphaned head of household with six children. The future looked bleak, and poverty seemed certain.
"Although I am only 23 years old, I'm carrying on my back the weight of many tragedies." — Demas Israeli NGO Selah, which addresses the lack of resources dedicated to olim (new immigrants) who arrive in intense crisis and organized our expedition, came to the rescue. They attended the shiva for his mother, advocated at school, secured access to resources, and provided support when Demas was a victim of police brutality. Without Selah, Demas and his family simply wouldn’t have made it.
The JCC in Gondar, Ethiopia.
Megan Maurer, Greg, and Mayor of Gondar.
Today, Demas is a lieutenant in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and was one of eight students to win a national leadership award. One sibling is an officer in the IDF, another a businessman, and another is married with a baby on the way. Selah remains his extended family, there in times of both need and simcha. Demas’ aliyah was not the end of a journey, but rather the beginning of one even more perilous. Without Selah’s intervention, Demas and his family would have languished like so many others who were less fortunate. Government programs insufficiently support Ethiopian olim in their efforts to achieve societal parity, and while there are capable and committed organizations working with Federation aid to close this gap, these groups need our help. Without it, Demas’ story will be the exception, and Ethiopian Israelis will remain at risk of becoming a permanent underclass.
The Maurers, Demas, and Julia Turow outside Ambover shul.
To learn more, email Greg at greg@heroncap.com.
Background photo of Semien Mountains taken by Greg Maurer
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Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis 6705 Hoover Road Indianapolis, IN 46260-4120
Non-profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 362 Indianapolis, IN
Volunteers Wanted for Committees! Buckets include: • Fundraising • Engagement/Education • and Planning/Finance.
Interested? Contact Sheila Yuckman at syuckman@jfgi.org.