Tikkun O’lam

Dear Friends,

This was another week in which we held our children close. Memorial Day has many meanings, but in the context of the academic calendar it stipulates celebration. Achievement. Joy. Closure. Instead, during this week many of us looked with sadness, horror, and anger at a situation that seems far too bleak for a community that traditionally believes in the concept of tikkun o’lam, or repairing the world.

Earlier this week we sent out an email to the families in our Robert J. Wilf Preschool and Kindergarten about this tragedy in Texas, and for those who want to read that it can be found here. In the email we discussed how in moments like these, we can take solace in small actions, and in joining with community.

To that end, many of us at the JCC have been turning our eyes to next Thursday, June 2, 2022, when we will have the opportunity to celebrate what has undoubtedly been a year of growth, reconnection, and resilience.

How might you participate? Join us in supporting the children of our community, and their families.

• Tickets are still available for our Preschool Celebration. Sign up here to join an afternoon of music, activities, and appreciation for our teachers, families, and an amazing preschool year.
• Make a donation today that invests in this community. We hope to finish our fundraising campaign next week, securing the final investment necessary to construct a new, beautiful toddler playground for our families. Help us achieve our goal.
• Tell your friends. Spread the word about the importance of a vibrant JCC early childhood program. Use this link to help share on social media your commitment to future generations learning, growing, and thriving.

This spring our teachers experienced a day of professional development, contemplating the difficult work they do daily to inspire and care for the children of our community. During the training, they were asked what they imagined young people in their care might take away most from their experiences at the Robert J. Wilf Preschool and Kindergarten. The answers were inspiring, and an aspirational salve to the morass of the week. “Confidence.” “Love of learning.” “Empathy and understanding.” “Community and connection.” Over the years we have seen such aspirations are authentic outcomes of our program. Let’s catalyze another cycle of together – for Philadelphia, and the world.

Shabbat Shalom,
Alan