My Nonprofit Reviews
JerryC
Review for Temple Beth Ami, Rockville, MD, USA
Temple Beth Ami is more than a congregation, it is a home! When we were shopping for synagogues one Friday night, I heard the cantor singing songs from my youth group days, and at the oneg, the Rabbi came up to greet us personally. This was the ONLY synagogue where we were greeted or even acknowledged. We joined that Monday and have not regretted it.
TBA is a warm and welcoming place, progressive in its views, inclusive of Jewish-by-choice and blended families, supportive of the LGBTQ community, and a staunch supporter of Israel. They are what I think of as Observant Reform. They have Friday and Saturday services along with a Sunday minyan for those saying Kaddish, and services for all major and lesser holidays and festivals. The services are a good mixture of Hebrew and English and they are easy to follow even for those whose knowledge of Judasim is small.
The clergy is friendly and approachable. They are involved with so much more than just the spiritual life of the congregation. They are active in social issues, the arts, community participation, and even athletics.
Recently the congregation brought on a new Rabbi, Gary Pokras, who is a worthy successor to the Rabbi Jack Luxemburg who led TBA so beautifully for over 30 years. Rabbi Pokras is infusing Beth Ami with fresh energy, new ideas, and the drive to keep our congregation growing, exciting, and relevant as we look forward to our next 30 years.
Please come by and say hello. You will be glad you did!
Review for Jewish Council for the Aging of Greater Washington, Inc., Rockville, MD, USA
Recently unemployed, I had the good fortune to stumble upon JCA's Career Gateway program at the Over 50 job fair they helped sponsor. It was the best move I could have made! The five-day class gave me the tools I needed to start my job search -- We improved my resume and LInkedIn profile, worked on setting job goals, practiced interviewing, built a support network of fellow job hunters who provide ongoing support and encouragement, and found a job search mentor. These have all been of immeasurable help and comfort as I navigate the hard waters of over 50 job hunting.
