Harvey Bennett, Lauren Glazer, Carly Krane, and Brianna Krane enjoy tasting gourmet olive oils at Loblaws.
Photo courtesy of West Island JCC

Families gather at Chapters Pointe Claire to hear author Karen Fisman read from her book, Adventures in Latkaland. Both events were part of the West Island Jewish Community Centre’s public spaces outreach program. Photo courtesy of West Island JCC

The YM-YWHA West Island Jewish Community Centre (WIJCC) is reaching out in an effort to connect with young families – whether at its Pierrefonds location or out-and-about in the West Island – wherever they can be found. The inspiration for its public space program was to make the connection with the unaffiliated and those who have drifted from their Jewish identity. The idea is to invite them to become reacquainted with their roots in settings that speak more to their daily lives than to institutional Judaism.

“Our objective,” explains Robyn Krane, Coordinator of Jewish Outreach at the WIJCC, “is to create an environment where people can learn about Jewish culture and traditions, to involve them, and to pique their interest. If we can kindle a childhood memory of a holiday spent with family, if we can stimulate curiosity, we can help to build community.”

Loblaws Pierrefonds has proven a popular destination for the JCC’s public space events. During Hanukkah, an olive oil tasting gave customers the opportunity to sample different flavoured olive oils, get recipes, and learn about holiday customs. At Rosh Hashanah last September, it was a chance to dip apple slices in gourmet honey. And at Passover, a display of holiday foods was set up in the matzah aisle. All of these events attracted large numbers of people, who stop by to learn, and to share their holiday experiences.

At Chapters Pointe Claire, children’s author Karen Fisman was brought in by the WIJCC to read from her book, An Adventure in Latkaland: A Hanukkah Story. More than 200 parents and children participated, children decorated dreidels, and a workshop was held for aspiring young authors.

Last summer, Centennial Park in Dollard was - and will be, again, this summer - the site for Israeli folk dancing on three separate evenings throughout the summer. These events were popular with both Jews and non-Jews, alike.

In all, more than 1,700 children, youth and families have taken part in the West Island JCC’s outreach programs and events.

“We are celebrating our culture, creating experiences that educate,” says Krane.“We’re trying to show young families that Jewish identity can add a very enriching element to their lives. The West Island has one of the fastest growing Jewish populations in North America and, for most, their lives are centred in the West Island, so it’s  important that we establish programs for them close to home.”

More outreach activities are planned, including a Purim Spiel at Chapters Pointe Claire on February 21, between 10:00 and noon. It is a great opportunity to learn the story of Purim, participate in art activities, and, of course, to eat hamentashen. There will also be a Purim Party on February 28 at the West Island JCC. Information about all events will be available on the Y website (www.ymywha.com) and on the community calendar at www.federationcja.org as they are confirmed.

Federation CJA is a registered charitable organization pursuant to the Canadian Income Tax Act - Registration number: 106702251RR0001.
Federation CJA is a 501c(3) non-profit Community Organization - 98-018 3709.
All donations to Federation CJA are tax-deductible in full.