Membership Engagement
Opportunities
There's no one way to be involved at Temple Emanu-El. Whether you're interested in social events, lifelong learning, volunteering, small groups, or family programming, you'll find opportunities to connect in ways that fit your interests and schedule. Explore the many ways to engage, meet new people, and make our community your own.
Not a member yet? Contact Jackie Grussgott, Director of Membership and Communications to learn more.
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The Caring Community is about showing up for one another during life’s meaningful and challenging moments. Volunteers deliver challahs for simchas and times of loss, provide meals during illness or recovery, make friendly calls and visits, and help with rides to appointments.
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Done in a Day offers one-time volunteer opportunities for members who want to help when they can. Whether organizing, preparing, or supporting a specific project or event, lending a hand for just one day can make a real and immediate impact.
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The ELC Committee, made up of current ELC parents, helps build community and engagement by organizing family-friendly programs and Jewish holiday celebrations. Volunteers support events like Tiny Tot Shabbat, the Hamantaschen Bake, teacher and staff appreciation, fundraising, and family-focused Tikkun Olam. Open to all ELC parents; meets monthly in the evening.
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Westfield Fun Club partners with refugee families to support their social, educational, and economic well-being. Volunteers assist with ESL, job readiness, citizenship preparation, children’s tutoring, and enrichment activities, as well as occasional food and essential-item support. The group meets twice a month on Saturdays at Temple from 10:00am-12:00pm, with both in-person and behind-the-scenes volunteer roles available.
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Gather Circles are small, lay-led groups (8–15 people) that meet every 4–6 weeks to connect around shared interests. There are over ten group options. Group leaders choose the theme, and training, guides, and support are provided to make participation easy and enjoyable. This
is a new initiative, launching January–June 2026.
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The Genesis Project welcomes and connects new members through a series of small-group gatherings. Volunteers help plan and run three Sunday sessions during the winter, creating space for relationship-building and meaningful conversation.
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The Green Team focuses on promoting environmental sustainability within our Temple community. Volunteers work on initiatives such as recycling, reducing waste, and encouraging eco-friendly practices. Open to anyone passionate about caring for the planet. This is a NEW group and the first meeting is on January 21.
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Hamishim offers fun, social programs for members over 60 who enjoy adult-focused activities and meaningful connection. Gathering several times a year, events include wine tastings, entertainers, Shabbat dinners, dessert at dusk, and more, all designed to build friendships and community.
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Members who are passionate about fostering a welcoming and inclusive community are invited to be part of shaping this future effort. The focus will be on accessibility, equity, and belonging, with the goal of ensuring that people of all abilities, backgrounds, and identities feel welcomed, valued, and supported at Temple Emanu-El.
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Membership volunteers help welcome, support, and connect new members as they begin their journey at Temple Emanu-El. Opportunities include planning new member gatherings, participating in the Genesis Project, reaching out personally, and helping create clear, welcoming communications throughout a member’s first year.
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The Men’s Club offers opportunities for members who identify as men to connect through camaraderie, service, and community. Activities include social events, Sukkah building, food delivery, and other hands-on ways to support the Temple.
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The Temple’s Philanthropy program objective is designed to encourage members to consider charitable giving opportunities which help to provide vital financial resources to advance the congregation’s mission. Philanthropy programs include the Temple’s Annual Appeal, Legacy & Planned Gifts, Capital Campaign, and other special fundraising projects. Volunteers are always welcome to assist as givers, solicitors, and stewards, as well as with activities such as our Thank-A-Thon.
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Temple Emanu-El offers a rich mix of programs and events year-round, and volunteers play an important role in making them successful. Opportunities include helping with or chairing one-time and annual programs across social, educational, social justice, and holiday-focused areas. We always welcome members’ ideas for future programs.
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Social Nest brings together adults in a shared life stage, when children are in late high school, college, or young adulthood, and parents are rediscovering personal passions and what’s next. The group offers opportunities to connect, explore interests, and build meaningful community with peers navigating a similar chapter. Events are social and are often held outside of the Temple.
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Inspired by the Jewish value of repairing the world, volunteers engage in hands-on service, advocacy, and community response. Opportunities span local, national, and global efforts and invite members to bring their ideas, energy, and passion for making a difference and creating meaningful change. Meets in the evening on the fourth Wednesday of the month.
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The YLE Committee plays a vital role in fostering connections between K-12 grade Religious School families and the Temple’s youth programs. A sounding board for the Director of Youth Learning and Engagement, this committee provides feedback, shapes initiatives, and leads volunteer efforts. Members collaborate to support and enhance programs, assist in organizing grade-level events, and take a role in temple-wide celebrations. Meets virtually once a month in the evening.