As we approach the festive season of Hanukkah, the excitement in the air is palpable. This year, for Hanukkah 5785 (2024), come "Light up Each Night" with our vibrant community. It’s a time for joy, connection, and giving back. During the eight nights of Hanukkah, we will come together for community gatherings, festive meals, and numerous opportunities to spread brightness during this special time.
Nightly Community Candle Lighting on Zoom
Our celebrations kick off each evening at 5 PM via Zoom. Whether you're at home or connecting from afar, join me and the Kol Ami Board of Directors for a meaningful menorah lighting. These nightly sessions, lasting around 20 minutes, will include songs, stories, and treasured traditions.
Do you have a family recipe or an inspiring story from Hanukkah? We encourage you to share! This is a wonderful chance to deepen our community bonds while we celebrate together.
Look for Zoom links in HaKol, our weekly newsletter, and in our daily Hanukkah emails 12/25-1/1/25
Hanukkah Fundraiser: 8k is our goal.
As we gather in the spirit of giving, we invite you to support Kol Ami. Our annual budget is under $400,000, and we heavily depend on the generosity of our members. Dues cover only a portion of our expenses. This year, our goal is to raise $1,000 for each night of Hanukkah, totaling $8,000.
Every dollar you contribute is tax-deductible and directly supports essential expenses, such as staff salaries, rent, and programming that strengthens Jewish life in Kirkland and the Eastside. For context, our fundraising helped organize over 15 community events last year and served more than 300 Jewish families in our area. Your act of tzedakah, or righteous giving, is vital for nurturing our growing Jewish community. I am profoundly grateful for your support personally. Your donations are what make it possible for me to serve.
To donate, please visit our donation page.
Together, we can illuminate the lives of those around us this Hanukkah!
Hanukkah Extravaganza:
Friday, December 27
Prepare for an unforgettable Hanukkah party on the Shabbat of Hanukkah on December 27, 2024! Our exhilarating schedule is packed with activities for the entire family!
5 PM: Kick off with the Family Hanukkah Glow in the Dark Dance and Play Party! Enjoy a delicious hot chocolate bar and fresh donuts—free and open to everyone!
6:15 PM: Relish a fantastic Hanukkah Feast. Join our Latkes Potluck by bringing a favorite veggie or fish side to share. We’ll provide latkes, drinks, and even more donuts! $10 pp
7:15 PM: Participate in the Grand Menorah Lighting. Remember to bring your menorah and candles to help us light the night in unity.
7:30 PM: End the evening with our special Hanukkah Candle Light Service, theme "Bring in the Light." Savor our adult hot chocolate bar, featuring a variety of delightful toppings and, of course, more tempting donuts!
Purchase your tickets for the Latke Dinner here and ensure you don't miss out on this Latke fest celebration!
Hanukkah Mitzvah Project
Let's create a meaningful impact this holiday season through our Hanukkah Mitzvah Project. We encourage everyone to participate in service projects and charitable acts, embracing the true spirit of Hanukkah.
Together, We Make a Difference
This year, Kol Ami is proud to support the Lake Washington United Methodist Church’s SAFE PARKING PROGRAM, aimed at assisting unhoused women and families. Our goal is to enhance the experience of living in a vehicle, making it safer and better equipped. During the dark and cold winter months, we can significantly impact the lives of women and families who are struggling to stay warm, fed, and safe.
About Safe Parking: The Safe Parking program specifically serves women and families living in their cars. We understand that individuals facing homelessness and who have a vehicle often struggle to find safe parking without the fear of receiving tickets or facing harassment. Additionally, we acknowledge that homelessness can be isolating, and the support of community and relationships can be life-changing.
How You Can Help: 1. Organize a Dinner Join other Kol Ami families in preparing a dinner for the participants of the Safe Parking program. Sign up here: https://lakewaumc.org/safe-parking-giving-tree/
2. Bring Donations You can drop off donations at our Kol Ami donation box during services, youth programs, or at our Hanukkah Extravaganza. The donation box will be available starting the weekend of December 6.
List of Needed Items: - Non-perishable food items suitable for car camping
Cold Weather Items: - Sleeping bags and blankets - Coats - Gloves, hats, and scarves - Hand warmers
Gift Cards: Our most requested gift cards are for gas, laundry, and haircuts. Please give them to Rabbi Kinberg for safe delivery. -
Toiletries: The church keeps a variety of toiletries for guests experiencing homelessness. Items needed include: - Shampoo - Soap - Toothpaste, toothbrushes, and floss - Tampons and pads - Adult diapers (all sizes) - Disposable razors - Baby wipes
Other Items Needed: - Flashlights - Batteries (all sizes, especially AAA and AA)
Items We Do Not Accept: - Clothing (unless otherwise specified) - Electronics - Baby items - Toys, books, and games By coming together, we can make a significant impact in our community. Thank you for your support!
This Hanukkah, please join us in embracing the joy of our shared traditions and community spirit. Engage with your fellow congregants, participate in nightly candlelightings, savor delicious food, support our fundraising efforts, and take part in meaningful acts of kindness this season.
As we count down the nights together, let us share our blessings, uplift one another, and brighten our lives with love, joy, and the spirit of giving.
Remember, Hanukkah celebrates resilience, hope, and community. Mark your calendars, reach out, and get involved. Let's make this Hanukkah 5785 at Kol Ami a memorable journey for all!
I look forward to seeing you and lighting up each night together!
Blessings for Peace and Light, Rabbi Kinberg
Kommentare