Seeking new connections? Craving engaging discussions or shared activities? Keen to explore fresh interests or cherished hobbies with a group?
Small Groups are the answer to all of this and more.
Small Groups are gatherings of 6-10 participants who meet regularly to delve into focused discussions or partake in specific activities. Small Groups aim to strengthen the sense of community, broaden social circles, and foster deeper connections among participants.
The participant limit fosters stronger connections among participants through small group sizes. Small Groups are characterized by their small size, committed attendance, and set number of meetings with participants actively contributing to the group’s success.
Initially, individuals can join one group, with spots available on a first-come, first-served basis. If space allows, participation in multiple groups might be an option. Currently, Small Groups are reserved for Hillcrest Jewish Center members; if space permits, non-members will also have the opportunity to join.
Dates and times for museum visits are determined based on current exhibitions in alignment with the group’s availability and museum hours. Docent-led tours, when available.
Transportation: Participants are willing to travel to Manhattan or local museums.
Description: Our group will visit small and large museums – in NYC museums and occasionally on Long Island.
For more information, contact Heléne Jacob via the HJC office.
Dates: Every first and third Thursday of the month
Time: noon for up to two hours
Where: Hillcrest Jewish Center
Description: If you can speak Yiddish a little or a lot, please join us as we continue our Yiddish group get-togethers. No studying, no memorizing, no pressure. Our goal is to come together, have fun and meet other Yiddish speakers as we reconnect with the culture and language many of us grew up with. We have space for new members and would welcome anyone interested in honing their Yiddish conversational skills.
For more information, contact Eva Zimmerman via the HJC office.
Dates: Thursdays, January 8, February 5, March 5, and April 23
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Where: Hillcrest Jewish Center
Description: The modern day Jewish community is fraught with conflict and confusion. What is the difference between Anti-Zionism and Anti-semitism? Do we support or not support Israel’s actions in Gaza and the West Bank? Where do we stand on enrolling the Haredi into the army? You can go on and on.
These conversations are happening or not in families and among friends. We hope to raise some of these issues and learn how to discuss them in a civil and non-contentious manner as they can’t really be swept under the rug by silence.. Please join us for the sessions at dates listed above.
For more information, contact, Barbara Finger and Sheldon Landesman via the HJC office.
Dates: Every Friday
Time: 10:15 am – 11:45 am
Where: Hillcrest Jewish Center
Description: We will be chatting in Hebrew followed by reading or listening to an article on a topic of general interest in Israel. Focus is on modern Hebrew.
For more information, contact Gina Friedlander via the HJC office.
Dates: Every Tuesday
Time: 5:45 pm – 6:45 pm
Where: Hillcrest Jewish Center
Description: If you always wanted to do Israeli dances, but never tried, this is your chance. Dancing helps to ward off Alzheimers by jogging your memory, and you get physical activity at the same time.
For more information, contact Iris Schachter via the HJC office.
Dates: Every Monday
Time: 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Where: Alley Pond Playground parking lot, located on 76th Avenue, just off of Springfield Boulevard
Description: Come enjoy the physical and mental benefits of time spent outdoors involved in movement and good conversation. This group of Hillcrest JC members meet at the Alley Pond Playground, located on 76th Avenue, just off of Springfield Boulevard. At each session, all members of the group contribute to the exchange of thoughts and ideas. Please wear appropriate, comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear. In the event of inclement weather, the walk will be canceled for that week.
For more information, contact Anna Rottersman via the HJC office.
Dates: Every first and third Wednesday of the month
Time: 5:30 pm
Where: Hillcrest Jewish Center
Description: Love Korean TV dramas, romances, comedies, or movies? This small group is for anyone who enjoys watching and analyzing these captivating shows. Join us as we dive into the latest programs, share opinions, and recommend new favorites.
For more information, contact Nora Kozuch and Louis Kleiman via the HJC office.
Dates: Every other Thursday starting November 20
Time: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Hillcrest Jewish Center
Description: Sports have a way of bringing people together. Many of us have grown up rooting for different teams, across all kinds of sports. What are our favorite memories? Who are the greatest players? There are always plenty of opinions! What about the rules and recent changes, are they good or bad? And the salaries, are they getting out of hand? These and other questions make for lively discussions. Join us as we dive into the wide world of sports!
For more information, contact Gerry Lewis via the HJC office.
Dates: Wednesdays, November 20, December 4 and 18
Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: In the ‘smoking room’ at Norton Spiel’s home, located in Jamaica, close to HJC (Address will be provided to group participants).
Description: Participants need to commit to attending all or most meetings. Open to men and women, smokers and non-smokers (but if the smoke bothers you, this small group is not for you!)
Cost: $15 per meeting, which includes 1 premium cigar per meeting and a selection of Bourbons and Single Malt Scotches.
This is a group that started last fall, and although space is limited, new participants are welcome. (Non-members are welcome but priority will be given to HJC members).
For more information, contact Rabbi Kogan via the HJC office.
We need you:
We have already had four cycles of Small Groups, some of which have run for multiple cycles. Group members have made friends, found support, and enjoyed themselves.
We are seeking members who are interested in leading a small group now or in the future. Groups can be based on any topic or activity.
Let’s keep the success going!
If you have ideas or want to volunteer as a leader, please email or call the office at 718-380-4145.
