Barbara and Douglas z''l Bloom Matzah Factory 2025
2025-04-06 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Detroit) | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
Please join JFamily for the annual Barbara and Douglas z”l Bloom Matzah
Factory on April 6, 2025! This family-friendly Passover event will include a
Passover play in the Berman Theater, matzah making with Rabbi Shneur
Silberberg from Bais Chabad and activities that will explore the five senses
of Passover.
Passover Play – The Berman Theater 3-3:30PM
Matzah Making & Activities- 3:30-5PM
(Activities will not open until 3:30PM!)
https://jfamily.jccdet.org/mediapolicy:
All JFamily programs welcome the diversity we know exists in our community.
This includes, but is not limited to, multifaith families, Jews of Color,
single parent families, members of the trans and LGBTQ+ community, people with
disabilities, and people from various economic backgrounds.
If you or any family member needs accommodations in order to successfully
participate in the program, please reach out to Rachael Gerstein.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/10973

JFamily Passover Pop-up with Tunezies, Jesse Palter
2025-04-10 09:45 - 10:30 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Join JFamily for a special Passover themed pop-up with Tunezies, Jesse Palter!
This amazing class will have your little ones moving and discovering the big
beats of the holidays.
Families are welcome to stay and play following the class until 11:30AM.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/10960

Passover Pop-Up at Goldfish Swim School- West Bloomfield
2025-04-16 10:00 - 11:30 | Goldfish Swim School -West Bloomfield 6335-A Orchard Lake Rd, West Bloomfield
Join JKids and Families and Hillel Day School for a splash-tacular Passover
celebration at Goldfish Swim School in West Bloomfield! We’ll "sea" you in the
pool for a morning of Passover memories that will last long after the seders
are over!
This event is geared towards children ages 0-10.
Cost is $5 per child.

Appropriate pool attire must be worn in the pool.
Registrants will be emailed separate waivers from Goldfish Swim School.
Fruit and drinks will be served.
Coastguard approved life vests are allowed.

View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11243

Modern Jewish Medical Ethics With Jill Gutmann
2025-04-28 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-05-19 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-06-16 10:00 - 11:30
MODERN JEWISH MEDICAL ETHICS with Jill Gutmann
﻿ZOOM
MONDAYS, 10 – 11:30 AM
Monthly : Oct. 28; Nov. 18; Dec. 16; Jan. 27; Feb. 24; Mar. 24; Apr.
28; May 19; June 16
Take a deep dive into the hot medical issues of the day with bioethicist Jill
Gutmann. Whether the subject is public health or women’s rights to their
bodies, you will be guided through an engaging discussion while looking at the
science, politics, Jewish commentary and other relevant sources to frame your
opinion. Never knowing what the timely topic will be until class, this fun,
informative and engaging class is sure to make you think and want the
conversation to continue long after the class has ended.
Tuition:__$210
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/8564
Click here to join the livestream. http://jlearn.online

Pop-up Stroller Walk in Huntington Woods!
2025-05-16 09:30 - 10:30 | Monarch Market Cafe 10099 W Eleven Mile Rd, Huntington Woods
Join our Parent Connector, Adina Goss for a stroller walk around Huntington
Woods. We will meet inside Monarch Market Café, grab a coffee then head out
for a stroll!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11663

JFamily Challah Train Nominations 2025-2026
2025-06-02 00:00 - 2026-05-31 00:00
🚂Choo Choo! All Aboard the JFamily Challah Train!
Do you know a family who could use a little extra love this week? Maybe they
just welcomed a new baby, moved into a new home, are navigating a tough
time—or maybe they’ve just been doing something wonderful and deserve to be
celebrated. Whatever the reason, the JFamily Challah Train is ready to
roll their way with a special Shabbat surprise!
Each week, our incredible Parent Connectors deliver fresh challah and a
bag of goodies to families across Metro Detroit. It’s our way of sharing
the warmth of Shabbat and reminding families that they’re seen, supported, and
celebrated.
Whether it’s a “just because” or a meaningful milestone, the Challah Train is
a small gesture with a big heart—and now, we need your help to keep it
going!
💛 Who can you nominate?
Families with children ages 0–10 living in Metro Detroit who could use
a warm Shabbat hug.
📬 What will they receive?
A delicious challah, a thoughtful bag of Shabbat-themed goodies, and a whole
lot of love.
✅ How do you nominate someone?
Just click the “Sign Up” button below and fill out the quick form. It only
takes a minute to brighten someone’s week.
This heartfelt initiative is generously supported by PJ Library Detroit ,
and together, we’re helping families feel connected, celebrated, and cared
for.
🚂Don’t miss the train—nominate a family today!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11900

Donuts with Dads and Friends: A Father's Day Pop Up!
2025-06-08 10:00 - 11:30 | Drake Sports Park 6801 Drake Rd, West Bloomfield
Celebrate the special guys in your life! Join Parent Connector Taylor
Weintraub for a morning of connection, community and fun at Drake Park in West
Bloomfield. Whether you’re a dad, grandpa, uncle or special friend – we want
to celebrate you! Open to the whole family and geared towards families with
children ages 10 and under. Donuts, drinks and snacks will be served!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11770

Sign Language with Ms. Amanda: A JFamily Pop-Up!
2025-06-10 10:00 - 12:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Join Us for a Special Morning of Learning and Fun!
Come spend a morning with parent connector Julie Michaels and Ms. Amanda as we
explore the basics of American Sign Language (ASL) and learn a few Hebrew
words for Shabbat! This is a wonderful opportunity for families with children
ages 6 months-6 years to learn together!
• 45 minutes of Sign Language fun
• Followed by snack and playtime in the JFamily Room
Meet Ms. Amanda Heikkila — a vibrant and joyful presence in our community!
With over 10 years of experience as an American Sign Language interpreter,
Amanda brings passion and heart to everything she does. As a proud Jewish mom
raising two little ones, she’s deeply committed to creating inclusive, fun,
and connected spaces. Amanda believes in the power of early communication and
is on a mission to help more families discover the magic of sign language —
especially with their babies. Her enthusiasm is contagious and makes learning
fun and engaging for kids and parents alike!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11800

A Second Blue and White Challah Bake with JFamily and Aish Detroit
2025-06-23 16:00 - 17:00 | Aish Detroit 25725 Coolidge Hwy, Oak Park
Join Aish Detroit and JFamily for our second Israel-themed challah bake of the
year. Come together in a supportive environment to pray for our brothers and
sisters in Israel when they need it most. At this time of open miracles, our
renewed faith and connection to our Jewish community can bring about better
days to come.
Each family will make their own batch of challah – some to take home and some
to give to friends or family who could use some extra strength.
$18 per family covers the cost of challah making materials.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12029

TreeRunner Adventure Park Pop-Up
2025-06-29 09:30 - 12:30 | TreeRunner Adventure Park & Mini Golf West Bloomfield 6200 Drake Rd, West Bloomfield
Get ready for a fun morning of outdoor adventure at TreeRunner Adventure Park-
West Bloomfield! Kids will climb, zip, and swing through the Aerial Forest AND
enjoy 18 holes of mini golf.

All necessary gear and instruction will be provided
Geared for ages 7-11
An adult must accompany children (1 to 3 ratio for 7-11 age range)
Siblings age 4+ welcome with an additional adult

Aerial Forest + Mini Golf Ticket (Age 7-11): $40
Sibling ticket for Junior Course (low ropes) + Mini Golf (age 4-6): $30
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11539

Sharing Shabbat 2025-2026: Interest Form
2025-07-08 00:00 - 2025-09-03 00:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Your Family’s Shabbat Adventure Starts Here!
Sharing Shabbat is a 7-month journey for families with children ages 0–11
to explore the joy of Shabbat together. Each month, your family will take part
in meaningful Shabbat experiences designed to help you connect — with the
traditions, with your own home rituals, and with other families in the
community.
Whether you’re new to town, part of an interfaith family, or simply looking to
build lasting connections, Sharing Shabbat offers a welcoming space for
everyone.
🍽️ 4 Home-Hosted Shabbat Meals: Friday night dinner or Saturday
brunch/lunch

Families will be placed into small cohorts that will gather in each other’s homes to celebrate Shabbat in a warm and relaxed setting.
Each host will receive a Sharing Shabbat Host Kit filled with helpful resources and goodies to enhance the experience, including a gift challah to Dakota Bread or Zeman’s Bakery.
Not comfortable hosting in your home? No problem! We still welcome your application and will work with you to find a way for your family to participate.

🌟 All participating families will enjoy these experiences:

Opening Shabbat Dinner & Art Workshop
Chanukah Celebration
Challah Bake
Closing Havdalah Celebration

These shared events bring everyone together to build community, celebrate
Jewish traditions, and create lasting memories.
Ready to join Sharing Shabbat?
After you complete your registration, you’ll receive an email with a link to
the application. Please be sure to submit the application by September
3rd. Once we receive it, a member of the JFamily team will reach out to
schedule a short Zoom conversation to get to know your family and learn more
about what you’re hoping for from your Sharing Shabbat experience.
Please complete the application (https://forms.gle/bodT5EVFiC1h3YXz9)!
Questions?
Contact Rachael Gerstein, JFamily Program Manager, at rgerstein@jccdet.org
— we’re happy to help!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12021

Sharing Shabbat 2025-2026: Interest Form
2025-07-08 00:00 - 2025-11-03 00:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Your Family’s Shabbat Adventure Starts Here!
Sharing Shabbat is a 7-month journey for families with children ages 0–11
to explore the joy of Shabbat together. Each month, your family will take part
in meaningful Shabbat experiences designed to help you connect — with the
traditions, with your own home rituals, and with other families in the
community.
Whether you’re new to town, part of an interfaith family, or simply looking to
build lasting connections, Sharing Shabbat offers a welcoming space for
everyone.
🍽️ 4 Home-Hosted Shabbat Meals: Friday night dinner or Saturday
brunch/lunch

Families will be placed into small cohorts that will gather in each other’s homes to celebrate Shabbat in a warm and relaxed setting.
Each host will receive a Sharing Shabbat Host Kit filled with helpful resources and goodies to enhance the experience, including a gift challah to Dakota Bread or Zeman’s Bakery.
Not comfortable hosting in your home? No problem! We still welcome your application and will work with you to find a way for your family to participate.

🌟 All participating families will enjoy these experiences:

Opening Shabbat Dinner & Art Workshop
Chanukah Celebration
Challah Bake
Closing Havdalah Celebration

These shared events bring everyone together to build community, celebrate
Jewish traditions, and create lasting memories.
Ready to join Sharing Shabbat?
After you complete your registration, you’ll receive an email with a link to
the application. Please be sure to submit the application by September
3rd. Once we receive it, a member of the JFamily team will reach out to
schedule a short Zoom conversation to get to know your family and learn more
about what you’re hoping for from your Sharing Shabbat experience.
Please complete the application (https://forms.gle/bodT5EVFiC1h3YXz9)!
Questions?
Contact Stephanie Erez at serez@jccdet.org — we’re happy to help!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12021

ECC Pool Party with Goldfish Swim School
2025-07-21 17:30 - 19:30 | 6600 W Maple Rd 6600 W Maple Rd,
Join us for an ECC Swim Party with Goldfish Swim School. There will be a talk
on water safety and a visit from Bubbles the fish! Learn about a special
discount for ECC families to enroll in Goldfish swim classes, and enjoy time
together with friends from our ECC community. The Grille will be open for
dinner, and snacks will be provided!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12197

Pizza in the Park: A Slice of Summer Fun!
2025-07-23 16:30 - 18:00 | Reynolds Park , Huntington Woods
🍕Join Parent Connector Adina Goss for Pizza in the Park! ☀️
What better way to spend a summer evening than with pizza, play, and sunshine?
Bring the whole family for a relaxing night outdoors with delicious pizza, fun
activities, and great company. It’s the perfect recipe for summer fun!
This event is free to attend. A suggested donation of $25 helps us cover the
cost- thank you for your support!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11907

Splish Splash Bash!
2025-07-27 10:00 - 11:30 | Heritage Park 24915 Farmington Rd, Farmington Hills
JFamily and NEXTGen Detroit present Splish Splash Bash!
Beat the heat and join us for some summer fun at the Heritage Park Splash Pad,
Playground and Pavilion. We’ll have cooling (and kosher) treats for the grown-
ups and kiddos too!
Please register in advance by July 20th.
$18 per Family.
This in-person event is intended for families with children ages 0 to 11.
Thank you to our event chairs: Sharon Fass, Nicole MacWilliams, Hannah Biran
and Carly Pickel
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11936

JFamily Gives Back: Fuel for School with Aish Detroit
2025-08-10 10:30 - 12:00 | Aish Detroit 25725 Coolidge Hwy, Oak Park
Join JFamily and Aish Detroit for a meaningful and fun-filled community event
as we come together to support local kids this upcoming school year! We will
pack supply boxes to help ensure every child starts the year off right.
📝 What to Expect :

Pack School Supply Boxes : Help assemble kits filled with essential items to be donated to children in need.
Amazon Wish List : We would greatly appreciate a donation from our (https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/21CRM2MI7Z3J0?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_ggr-subnav-share_544K00X507D61ECZE8RC)(https://a.co/5DAWvze) to help us create the supply boxes. Even if you can’t attend the event, you can still support by purchasing items from the list—every contribution goes directly toward helping a child succeed this school year.
Lunchbox Demo : Learn how to make a healthy, balanced lunch your kids will love with our hands-on demonstration!

We’re proud to partner with Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit , who
will help distribute the packed supply boxes to children in need throughout
the community.
Bring your family, friends, and a big heart. Whether you’re packing supplies,
donating items, or learning something new, your involvement will make a big
difference.
Geared for ages 5-11.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11979

New(ish) to Town Pop-Up!
2025-08-17 16:00 - 17:30 | Poppleton Park, Birmingham, United Kingdom
New(ish) to Town?
If you’ve moved here within the last three years, we’d love to welcome you!
Join us for an afternoon filled with ice cream, games, crafts and more! This
pop-up is a great way to meet new friends and connect with other families
nearby!
This event is aimed for families with children ages 0-11.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/11926

Jewish Military Families
2025-09-07 11:00 - 12:00 | Henry & Delia Meyers Library at The J 6600 W Maple Rd,
Connect with other Jewish families with currently serving US Military members
(all branches, Active, Guard and Reserve) to schmooze and learn about
resources. Hosted in the Henry & Delia Meyers Library at The J.
Email for more information, to join our mailing list, or to RSVP for September
7 social meeting. This is a nonpartisan group.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12430

Blooms & Blessings for a Sweet New Year
2025-09-21 10:00 - 11:15 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Join Parent Connector Julie Michaels and Rachael Gerstein at The J for a
special morning of flower arranging in preparation for your Rosh Hashanah
dinner!
While you create a beautiful floral centerpiece, your little one will enjoy a
holiday-themed craft activity and snacks.
This program is designed for families with children ages 3–5.
We can’t wait to celebrate the season with you!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12528

From Chag to Calm – A Children’s Yoga Class
2025-10-19 10:00 - 11:15 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Let’s stretch, smile, and start the year sweet!

Join Parent Connector Taylor Weintraub at The J for a special children’s
yoga class with Stacy Bishop! After the excitement of the High Holidays,
this playful session will help kids unwind and recharge. Through fun poses,
calming breathing exercises, and simple mindfulness activities, children will
stretch their bodies and relax their minds.
Snacks and open playtime follow the class—making it the perfect morning for
both kids and parents!
Geared toward families with children ages 2-5.
Please bring your own yoga mat or towel. Email us if you need to borrow one.
Stacy has 18 years of personal practice and 16 years of teaching experience,
Stacy brings a warm, welcoming energy to every class. A 200 E-RYT and YACEP
certified instructor through Yoga Alliance, she specializes in mindful,
accessible movement for all ages.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12547

Camp Kickoff 2026
2025-11-02 13:00 - 16:00 | JCC Day Camps 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield Township
Camp Kickoff at JCC Day Camps!
Whether you’re brand new or a returning camp family, come join us for a fun-
filled day. Meet our counselors, explore all the awesome activities, and get a
real taste of camp life. It’s the perfect opportunity to see what JCC Day
Camps is all about in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
Parking Info: Please park in lot off of Drake Rd at The J. The event will
take place up at camp, just a short walk from parking. Accessible/handicap
parking will be available closer to camp.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12656

School Break - Movie + Play at The J: Featuring Toy Story
2025-11-26 09:00 - 11:30 | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
Looking for something fun to do with the kids while school is out?
Spend the morning at The J with a special family event featuring Toy Story!
Doors open at 9:00 AM. From 9:00–10:00 AM , kids can dive into a huge
play space filled with bounce houses, games, hands-on crafts, and a cozy
reading area. The play space will remain open throughout the entire
event—including during the 10:00 AM big-screen showing of Toy Story —so
families can choose to play, watch, or do both!
It’s the perfect way to spend the Wednesday of Thanksgiving break! Kids burn
off energy, parents, grandparents, and caregivers get a break, and the whole
family enjoys a classic movie together.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12904

Create and Give Thanks: A Bagel Brunch
2025-11-30 10:00 - 11:30 | Royal Oak Chabad Jewish Center 514 E 4th St, Royal Oak
Join us for a meaningful morning of giving thanks!
We’ll make our own Grateful Jars — a special place to keep notes about things
we’re thankful for! Then we’ll sit together in a circle and talk about Modeh
Ani — the morning prayer we say to thank Hashem for giving us our neshama
(soul) back each day. We’ll share ideas about what it means to be grateful and
how we can show thankfulness every day
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13563

Dads' Night Out with JFamily - December
2025-12-17 19:00 - 21:00 | Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
Dads deserve a night out, too! Take some time with the guys in a relaxed
environment while you schmooze, network and enjoy good company. See some of
your old friends and make some new ones!
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13876

School Break - Movie + Play at The J: Featuring Minions
2025-12-29 09:30 - 12:00 | The Berman Center For The Performing Arts 6600 W Maple Rd,
Looking for something fun to do with the kids while school is out?
Spend the morning at The J with a special family event featuring Minions!
Doors open at 9:15 AM. From 9:15–10:15 AM , kids can dive into a huge
play space filled with bounce houses, games, hands-on crafts, and a cozy
reading area. The play space will remain open throughout the entire
event—including during the 10:15 AM big-screen showing of Minions —so
families can choose to play, watch, or do both!
It’s the perfect way to spend a break! Kids burn off energy, parents,
grandparents, and caregivers get a break, and the whole family enjoys a
classic movie together.
Popcorn will be available for purchase. Free water bottles, coffee, veggie
straws, and applesauce pouches will be provided while supplies last.
Please bring socks for your children to wear in the play space. Socks will
also be available for purchase.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13721

Little Explorers: Discovering Israel
2026-01-11 15:30 - 17:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Discover Israel with your youngest explorers!
Join JFamily, Federation’s Israel and Overseas and our community Shinshinim
for an exciting trip to Tel Aviv! Learn about all the hidden gems of this
amazing city through play stations, crafts and songs. Kid friendly snacks will
be provided.
$18 per family. Space is limited.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13847

JFamily Inclusive Pop-Up @ We Rock The Spectrum: Troy/Clawson
2026-01-18 09:30 - 11:30 | We Rock The Spectrum – Troy/Clawson 1255 W 14 Mile Rd, Clawson
Join JFamily Parent Connector Kim Kerwin for a fun, inclusive event for
families with children of all abilities. This is a relaxed, judgment-free
space where kids can play, explore and enjoy activities at their own pace, and
where parents can connect with others and build community.
Cost: $15/child (the program cost is being generously subsidized by JFamily)
This event is geared towards families with children ages 0-10.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13973

Give Back and Play with Repair the World and JKids and Families
2026-01-19 09:30 - 11:30 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd, West Bloomfield
Join us for a fun and fulfilling morning together!
Enjoy bounce houses and fun in Handleman Hall, plus hands-on service projects
with Repair the World in the J lobby—a meaningful way for families to engage
in tzedakah together and honor Dr. King’s legacy.
This event is free and open to all.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13923
