Jewish Experiences, a collaboration of Jewish Federation and The J, is partnering with local community organizations to coordinate a number of events commemorating Yom HaZikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day) and celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel’s Independence Day) in April for the Kansas City Jewish community.
Events will take place at the Jewish Community Campus.
Information surrounding all upcoming events and activities for Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut can be found at thejkc.org/yamim.
“These programs give our community the opportunity to come together in meaningful ways through remembrance, reflection and celebration,” said Molly Hess, director of Jewish Experiences. “We hope these events help people of all ages to learn something new about and feel connected to Israel.”
For the first time, community members are invited to participate in Painting in Memory, a family-friendly experience where participants will paint candles in memory of fallen Israeli soldiers and victims of terror. The program will take place on Monday, April 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in The J’s fitness lobby.
A Yom HaZikaron Community Commemoration will be held later that evening, April 20, at 6 p.m. at The Lewis & Shirley White Theatre at The J. Community members are invited to come together in remembrance during this free event, which will include prayers and personal stories honoring Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror. More information can be found at thejkc.org/yomhazikaron.
The Yom Ha’atzmaut Community Celebration will return, this time on Wednesday, April 22, from 5 to 7 p.m. This free event invites community members and families of all ages to celebrate Israel’s Independence Day through games, crafts and activities highlighting Israeli culture. Guests are encouraged to wear white in honor of the holiday. Food will be available for purchase in advance through Monday, April 20, at 5 p.m., but will not be available for purchase on-site. More information can be found here. thejkc.org/yomhaatzmaut.
“We are proud to offer a range of meaningful experiences for all ages throughout these observances,” said Carly Stein, chief operating officer at The J. “From attending a commemoration to participating in Painting in Memory or celebrating at Israel's Independence Day with dinner at The J, there are many ways for our community to engage, reflect and feel a sense of connection.”
This year’s partners include Congregation Beth Shalom; Congregation Beth Torah; Congregation Beth Israel Abraham and Voliner; Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy; Jewish Community Foundation; Jewish Federation; Jewish Community Relations Bureau | American Jewish Committee; KC Kollel; KU Hillel; Menorah Heritage Foundation; Midwest Center for Holocaust Education; and New Reform Temple.
More information is available by contacting Jewish Experiences at (913) 327-8163 or .
