Harvesting the Future: Reaching Families with Young Children

On a recent Sunday afternoon, dozens of families converged on a Bolton orchard from all over Greater Boston to take part in CJP’s Young Families apple-picking event.

Families with young children experienced the fun of picking apples while getting to know each other. But they also knew that part of their harvest – literally hundreds of apples -- would be going to students at the Conley School in Roslindale who might not always have fresh fruit in their lunch. Conley is a special school for the members of CJP’s Women’s Philanthropy, who tutor there through the JCRC’s literacy program. 

CJP has created a calendar of activities and programs for busy families who want to experience Jewish life and teach the value of tzedakah while connecting to the community, to the life-changing work of CJP and to each other.

Next up: Rock N Wrap on Sunday, December 14 where each family brings a present to wrap for a child in need and everyone dances the afternoon away. The fun starts at 2 p.m. at the Solomon Schechter Lower School in Newton.  Click here for more information.

“Teaching our children the importance and satisfaction of giving is a powerful way to build Jewish connections,” says Allyson Jaffe, co-chair of CJP’s Families with Young Children committee. “It’s been a great way to teach my children about tzedakah and to meet other Jewish families in our community.” Among CJP’s popular programs for parents of young children is Ikkarim, where parents explore Jewish texts and values with some of Boston’s top thinkers.

For many, these CJP programs are their first taste of Jewish life. “For families who may not yet belong to a synagogue and whose children are too young for Hebrew school, this may be their first important link to the Jewish community,” adds co-chair Lauren Dickerman. “We all gain by having the next generation become involved at a much earlier age and enhancing the chances they will find refuge in their personal connection with Judaism, CJP and the community.”

Want to hear more about CJP’s activities for families with young children? Contact Joanna at joannab@cjp.org or 617-457-8758.