A variety of community events focused on engagement and support are taking place in the Philadelphia area this August, providing residents with opportunities to connect, contribute, and learn.
On August 19, Congregation Beth El of Bucks County invites individuals to participate in ‘Cook for a Friend,’ a session dedicated to preparing healthy and nutritious meals from 4 to 7 p.m. The meals created during this event will be packaged and delivered to seniors in Northeast Philadelphia through KleinLife, emphasizing both culinary skill and community service. For more details, visit bethelyardley.org.
Also on August 19 at 3 p.m., the Germantown Jewish Centre offers a weekly Mah-jongg gathering, fostering connections and friendly competition among players at all skill levels. Individuals interested in joining this weekly cohort can find more information at germantownjewishcentre.shulcloud.com.
Society Hill Synagogue is addressing food insecurity on the same day, from 4 p.m. at the Old Pine Community Center. This initiative, part of the Food Insecurity Committee, focuses on assisting approximately 30 families in the Courtyard Apartments near South 4th St. and Washington Ave. Participants can find additional details at societyhillsynagogue.org.
On August 21, the Kaiserman JCC will host ‘Gems at Bucks County: Learn and Lunch’ at Shir Ami in Newtown from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This event features instructor Steve Mandel, creating a platform for participants to enjoy lunch while gaining new knowledge, forming part of a program tailored for older adults. More information can be found at phillyjcc.com.
Later that same day, Society Hill Synagogue will welcome players from 1 to 3 p.m. for their Mah-Jongg Club meet-up, encouraging both newcomers and seasoned players to enjoy an afternoon of fun and camaraderie. Coffee and pastries will be provided, contributing to the welcoming atmosphere. Interested individuals can check for details at societyhillsynagogue.org.
Mark your calendars for August 24, when the Katz JCC hosts the long-anticipated 2025 Disability Services Bowl-a-Thon at Laurel Lanes from 2 to 4 p.m. This enjoyable event promises bowling, pizza, and drinks, while proceeds will directly support initiatives for individuals with disabilities. More information is available at katzjcc.org.
Families are also invited to embrace the warmth of Israeli culture at a Pool Party on the same day, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Kaiserman JCC. This festive gathering costs $18 for families with a pool membership and $36 for those without. Participants can find further details at phillyjcc.com.
For those preferring a quieter start to their day, Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel will hold a Sunday Morning Minyan and Schmooze from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on August 24, blending spiritual reflection with engaging conversation, making it a perfect way to conclude the weekend. More information is accessible via bzbi.org.
Finally, on August 27, join Congregation Rodeph Shalom for the ‘Breaking Bread on Broad Distribution’ from 7 to 10:30 a.m. This community service event invites volunteers to help package essential items, including diapers and food, aimed at supporting those less fortunate in the area. For volunteer involvement, contact [email protected].
These events represent an excellent opportunity for community members to connect with each other while contributing to meaningful causes throughout the month of August.
image source from:jewishexponent