February B'tzelem

02.05.25 | Stories

TEMPLE JUDEA'S RESPONSE TO THE LA WILDFIRES

Your generosity and support have made a tremendous impact. The Temple Judea community and our incredible volunteers packed 150 firefighter "go bags." These bags were delivered by Pamela Tannenbaum and Sandy Baral to fire stations, including Fire Station 78 in Studio City (pictured in the top left). We also filled a large U-Haul truck (pictured in the top right) with clothing, diapers, toiletries, blankets, and other essential items, all meticulously sorted by our volunteers, for Hope the Mission to distribute to families directly affected by the wildfires. Your kindness and dedication truly embody the spirit of community, and together, we are making a difference in the lives of those in need. Thank you to everyone who contributed!

WELLBEING OF THE SOUL

Our annual theme, Kol Yisrael Aravim Zeh b’Zeh—all Israel is responsible for one another— is not just about the support we can give, but also about the support that we need. Temple Judea has compiled a list of resources to help strengthen mental resilience at TJ's mental wellness hub, Wellbeing of the Soul. Started during COVID, this resource provides valuable information, articles, and support—not just for those affected by the fires, but for anyone facing mental health struggles. We will continue to update and expand this collection to provide the tools and guidance needed for anyone on their journey to healing. Remember, you do not have to walk this path alone. Temple Judea is here to walk alongside you.

ONE-LA IAF KNOW YOUR RIGHTS CITIZENSHIP WORKSHOP

Join One LA and Our Lady of Grace for an informative "Know your rights" workshop to review important information about immigration rights. TJ's Pathways to Citizenship immigration attorneys will be on hand to share their expertise. This program is a great way to learn how you can support our most vulnerable neighbors. Spanish translation will be available.

SPOTLIGHT ON STUDENT ACTION

Last weekend, teen students in grades 10 - 12 traveled with Rabbi Rosenstein on the RAC L’Taken Trip to Washington D.C. In the nation’s capital, students had their voices heard and learned how to lobby Congress for social justice causes close to their hearts and informed by their Jewish values.

Meanwhile, February 9th, students in the 7th grade Tzedek track class will be taking a trip to animal sanctuary, Kindred Spirits Care Farm, as part of their learning on animal welfare. Students will tour the farm and learn about animal rights and the way the farm provides for the larger community.

CARING COMMUNITY: A RECIPE FOR CONNECTION

SUPPORT OUR CARING COMMUNITY

As we highlighted in our last B'tzelem, TJ's Caring Community does so much to offer not only assistance, but also connection between congregants. Their ongoing efforts include making personal calls and delivering gift bags and baskets to new parents, the sick, and the newly bereaved, writing tribute acknowledgments, greeting congregants as they arrive for Shabbat services, providing meals to families in need, and honoring our High School seniors with scholarships, all in memory of their beloved founder, Judy Scharf, z'l.

To help support Judy Scharf Scholarship Program, Caring Community is now introducing community baking classes at Temple Judea on select Sundays during Religious School hours. The first class will take place on Sunday, January 26 @ 9:00 am, and participants are invited to make a small $18 donation to support the Judy Scharf Memorial Scholarship. This initiative is just one example of how Caring Community continues to engage and support our congregation. Together, we can continue to build a community of support that lifts up one another!

Caring Community depends on the generosity of volunteers and donors like you for the success of their work. There are countless ways you can help, and every contribution counts. By volunteering, you’ll experience the joy of making a real difference in someone’s life. By donating, you’ll help sustain our scholarship program and provide much-needed support to those in need.

Volunteer: No matter your availability, your time and kindness will make a lasting impact. Email to learn more about volunteering opportunities.

Donate: To make a donation, click here and, in the "Type" dropdown, select either the "Judy Scharf Memorial Scholarship" or the "Ellen M. Rose Caring Community Fund”.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Presidents' Day observances.

Monday, Feb. 17. Temple Judea - including the ECC and all offices - will be closed in observance of Presidents' Day

Support Our Hungry Neighbors with Social Action.

Mondays, Feb. 17 (@ Gelsons) & March 3 (@ TJ) @ 10am. Help hungry neighbors at Hope the Mission by packing sack lunches at home (every first and third Monday of each month) and bringing them to to the listed location. Learn Mor e

Pathways to Citizenship is gearing up for a new year.

Saturday Feb. 22 @ 9am-1pm (@ Parish Center). Who do you know that wants to become a citizen? Help them achieve that goal. Volunteers are welcome but will require training. Learn More or call Judy Rutt at 213-700-9363.

Jewish Baking with Caring Community (*Now at TJ on select Sundays during Religious School hours).

Sunday, Feb. 23 @ 9am (@ TJ) - Bagels. Whether at TJ or in a home kitchen, learn to bake from TJ members and bakers! Register with a small $18 donation to support the Judy Scharf Memorial Scholarship. Learn More & Register

We're not just spinning yarns here!

Sunday, Feb. 23 @ 10am. Join People of the Yarn, TJ's knit and crochet group, for a morning of fun and creative tikkun olam. Craft items for people in need in our community. All levels welcome! Learn More

Social Action: Mitzvah Day planning meeting.

Monday, March 5 @ 7pm (by phone or Zoom). Help us plan Temple Judea's Mitzvah Day, scheduled for Sunday, May 18! Let's ensure it's a day filled with tikkun olam. Learn More

Ongoing Initiatives