We help families make connections for life.

JFamily, a program of The J, proudly connects families to the Detroit Jewish community. We specialize in inclusive and innovative Jewish experiences that are fun for parents, grandparents and kids. We also provide meaningful support and community resources for parents and grandparents.

Find JFamily Events on Jlive
JFamily

7,025 people participated in JFamily programming last year.

What we do

  • Shabbat Programming: Looking to build connection and community? Want to celebrate Shabbat with other families? Check out JLive for Shabbat themed programming and events throughout the year.
  • Mini Maccabi: Ready, set, play! Join JFamily for Mini Maccabi, a high-energy afternoon filled with sports, games, bounce houses, crafts, and nonstop fun for children ages 0–10.
  • Matzah Factory: The Barbara and Douglas Bloom Matzah Factory is an annual event for families to celebrate Passover. This large community-wide program at the J welcomes hundreds of families to enjoy a Passover play at the Berman Theater, hands-on activities, and of course, learn to make Matzah. Be sure to check out Jlive to find the event around Passover time.
  • Open Play: Gather with JFamily for a morning filled with play, connection, and community. Children can explore and make new friends while families build meaningful Jewish connections in a warm and welcoming space.
  • Family Pop-up Programs: Big fun, small gatherings! Meet other local families at JFamily Parent Connector Pop-Ups happening all around Metro Detroit. Play, connect, and build your Jewish community together.
  • Get Togethers: PJ Library Get Togethers are the perfect way to get together with old and new friends . Make plans with two or more other families for a Jewish holiday or around a Jewish theme, and PJ Library will help cover the costs up to $100. Need an idea? How about a hike and a picnic to celebrate the new year? Or get together with friends for a Rosh Hashanah potluck dinner? Learn more.

All aboard the Challah Train – Powered by PJ Library Detroit.

Every Friday, our Challah Train is offered to four JFamilies, who receive challah and other Shabbat goods delivered to their door. Members of our community can nominate someone they feel would benefit from a Challah Train delivery by signing up on Jlive.

Nominate Here

Meet our team and our JFamily Parent Connectors.

Meet the JFamily team! We’re here to welcome you, help you connect with other families, and make it easy to find friendship, support, and community throughout Metro Detroit.

Stephanie Erez[email protected]
Division Head, Advancement and Community Engagement 

Sarah Bennett [email protected]
Administrative Coordinator

Olivia Weiner – [email protected]
Program Manager 

Emily Rosenberg[email protected]
Engagement Manager 

Alexandra Mollen- [email protected]
Social Media Coordinator  

Parent Connectors

Amanda Dahm 

Adina Goss 

Hannah Kessler

Julie Michaels ‎

Kim Kerwin

Taylor Weintraub

Want to connect with a Parent Connector? Email Emily Rosenberg, [email protected]

JFamily programming is made possible by Barbara and Douglas (z”l) Bloom, the Kaufman Family Foundation, the Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Foundation, and the generous supporters of PJ Library Detroit and JBaby.