Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit

Israel's Conscription Debate: A closer look at the public discourse stirring up Israel
2025-09-07 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Detroit)
**Exciting Update:** We’re thrilled to welcome a special guest, Rabbi
Yehoshua Pfeffer, founder of the Iyun Institute to our next Coffee Talk event.
Join us for a compelling conversation as Rabbi Pfeffer takes us into the heart
of a deeply complex and emotionally charged issue: Haredim service in the IDF.
He’ll unpack the background to the current recruitment political and social
predicament, the challenges faced by Haredi soldiers who chose to serve, while
exploring the broader national conversation around civic duty and sharing the
burden.
This is a rare opportunity to hear from someone deeply immersed in both Torah
scholarship and public policy. Expect nuance, insight, and a candid look at
one of Israel’s most pressing debates. We hope you’ll join us for this
important discussion.
**About Rabbi Pfeffer**
Yehoshua Pfeffer is Rabbi of “Ohr Chadash” in Ramot Bet, Jerusalem. Alongside
his rabbinic role, he heads the Iyun Institute, which operates a range of
groundbreaking leadership programs and publications in the Haredi space,
focusing on the crucial issue of broader Haredi responsibility for Israel. He
is the founding editor of the “Tzarich Iyun” journal and is Chair of Netzach
Yehudah, serving and supporting Haredi soldiers in the IDF. He is also a
professor at Hebrew University’s law school, having previously clerked at
Israel’s Supreme Court. He lives in Jerusalem with his wife and six of their
eight children.
**Questions for our speaker?** Please include them when registering.
**Questions about this event?** Contact Lior Zisser-Yogev at (248) 642-6892 or
via email listed below.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12190
Click here to join the livestream. https://jfmd-org.zoom.us/j/85684870913?pwd=[REDACTED]

NEXTGen Detroit Annual Meeting
2025-09-08 18:00 - 20:00 | Adat Shalom Synagogue 29901 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills
Join us for an evening of connection, celebration and community as we welcome
the incoming NEXTGen Detroit Board and honor those rolling off after a year or
more of incredible leadership and impact.
Enjoy light bites, beer and wine during our pre-glow reception, followed by a
program highlighting this year’s achievements and what’s ahead for our
vibrant, young adult Jewish community.
**6 PM Light bites & drinks**
**Dietary laws observed**
**7 PM Annual Meeting**
**Invocation**
Rabbi Josh Bennett
**Presentation of Mark-Lis Young Leadership Award**
Joshua Borson
Installation of the 2025-2026 Board of Directors
**Executive Leadership**
Andrew Luckoff, President
Abigail Epstein, President-Elect
Spencer Lucker, Immediate Past President
**Executive Committee**
Eric Berlin
Steven Betel
Lauren Deitch
Erica Dovitz
Marni Glowacki
Nicole MacWilliams
Andrew Moss
Jeremy Rosenberg
Alana Silver
Blair Thoenes
**Board of Directors**
Meredith Berlin
Sydnie Blazofsky
Benjamin Blumenstein
Aaron Brown
Daniel Cohen
Emily Elconin
Sharon Fass
Bri Freedman
Zack Goldman
Karlee Goodwin
Jacob B Gordon
Jacob R Gordon
Natalie Gordon
Meredith Kay Rubenfire
Josh Ketai
Mara Levine
Matthew Luckoff
Shelby Miller
Molly Moss
Dylan Mostyn
Zach Neistein
Stephanie Parzen
Amanda Polk
Gillian Porter
Allie Rosen
Abby Rubin
Brett Satovsky
Emily Slabotsky
Daniel Snyder
Jeffrey Sondheimer
Alyse Waldhorn
Taylor Weintraub
Dorrie Wolfe
Ariel Zeidner
Ashley Zlatopolsky
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12308

Asana Tova New Year's Yoga
2025-09-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Franklin Park 26425 Wellington Rd, Franklin
Prepare your mind and body for the Jewish New Year with NEXTGen Detroit
Balance and some evening outdoor yoga. We’ll be centering ourselves with a
relaxed yoga class designed for all levels — perfect for first-timers and
beginners as well as seasoned yogis. And we’re keeping this get-together sweet
and seasonal with some cider and donuts from everyone’s favorite cider mill
right down the street. Grab your stretchy pants and meet us there!
If you’re not up for yoga, but would like to come hang out for cider and
donuts, you’re more than welcome! Just arrive closer to 7 PM.
Please bring your own yoga mat or towel.
**﻿**
$15 per person includes yoga class, cider and donuts.
$5 per person if just coming for cider and donuts.
A kosher and gluten free option is available upon request.
Please register no later than September 11.
This event is intended for young adults ages 21 to 39.
Thank you to our NEXTGen Detroit Balance chairs: Shelby Miller and
Amanda Polk
**About NEXTGen Detroit Balance**
NEXTGen Detroit Balance is a series of programs and events focused on
providing young adult Jewish Detroiters with access to conversations and
experiences that promote mental and emotional wellness.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12772

Target and Talk: A Night In the Loop
2025-09-17 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-09-17 19:00 - 21:30 | BATL Grounds | Novi 44175 W 12 Mile Rd, Novi
Join us for a dynamic evening that brings together community connections,
meaningful conversations, and a little competitive edge.
We’ll kick off the night with dinner and a compelling presentation by Gary
Sikorski of JCSI, Jewish Community Security Inc., who will share valuable
insights into Jewish community security and preparedness. Then, we’ll trade
the talk for some action with axe and knife throwing at BATL’s state-of-the-
art Novi facility.
Whether you’re coming to connect with others in The Loop, trying something
new, or just want to enjoy a mid-week break — this is your kind of night.
**Additional Information:**
$54 for admission
Closed-toed shoes required
Please RSVP by September 14th
**Thank you to our leadership:**
Danielle and Aaron Ruskin
Sara and Scott Bernstein
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12522

Welcome Your 2025–2026 Shinshinim
2025-09-19 16:00 - 18:00
Join us in giving a warm Detroit welcome to Ido, Leayah, Maayan, Naveh, Oded
and Or—our new Shinshinim (young Israeli emissaries) spending the next year
with us!
Let’s come together to say _Shabbat Shalom_ , _Shana Tova_ and _Behatzlacha_
as they begin their journey of service in our Jewish community.
These inspiring teens are here between high school and military service to
share their love for Israel. You’ll see them in schools, synagogues, and at
events across Jewish Detroit. Stop by, say “Hello,” and help them feel at
home.
We can’t wait for you to meet them!
Refreshments will be served. Please register by September 17.
_This event will be held at a private residence in West Bloomfield. Address
information will be sent to you a few days prior._
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12806

Live From Murray Hill
2025-09-29 18:00 - 21:00 | Temple Israel 5725 Walnut Lake Rd, West Bloomfield Township
Max Cohen (aka Murray Hill Boy) is the ultimate Jewish guy next door, and he’s
coming to the D! With over 200,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok, Max
has built a comedy empire on the quirks of Jewish life, dating in your 20s,
the Jewish camp experience and college/post-grad chaos.
As a proud member of the Jewish and LGBTQIA+ communities, Max uses his
platform to spread Jewish joy, spark connection across generations, and
inspire authenticity. From laugh-out-loud sketches to heartfelt moments, Max
reminds us that being yourself is your superpower.
**What to Expect:**
6:00 PM: Optional dinner for teens (grades 7-12) courtesy of Temple Israel’s
YFTI Group
6:30 PM: Doors Open for Everyone
7:00 PM: Max live on stage; hot takes, good laughs, and lots of Jewish energy
8:00 PM: S’more Moments with Max: Exclusive dessert reception + photo ops with
Max for donors and their families who commit to making a gift to Federation’s
2026 annual campaign.
**Additional Information:**
$36 for adults
$18 for students (grade 7-12) includes optional dinner
Max 5 Tickets per order
Please RSVP by Wednesday, September 24th
Thank you to Temple Israel, YFTI, BBYO, and Tamarack Camps for your
partnership, leadership, and support in bringing this unique experience to
life.
And thank you to our event chairs: Erin and Glenn Pavey & Family
**Thank you to our hype committee: **
Andrea and Jeffrey Belen & Family
Carole and Shlome BenEzra & Family
Julie and Sam Beznos & Family
Lauren and Michael Canner & Family
Meredith and Steven Carrel & Family
Michael Feld & Family
Janet and Vladimir Gendelman & Family
Robyn and David Heicklen & Family
Lori and Ryan Hirsch & Family
Lisa and Jason Klein & Family
Michelle and Jonathan Kroll & Family
Ilana and Zach Liss & Family
Michelle and Scott Rosenblum & Family
Lisa and Jared Rothberger & Family
Danielle and Aaron Ruskin & Family
Rebecca and Michael Schostak & Family
Marla and Marc Shefman & Family
Carly and James Sheridan & Family
Erin and Neil Simmerman & Family
Hallie and Bryan Steckler & Family
Esther and Eric Steinbock & Family
Brooke Weingarden and Ben Handelsman & Family
Lindsey and Greg Weitzman & Family
Jayme Kirschner and Danny Singer
_Affinities Department Co-Chairs _
**Questions?** Contact Jodi at
([REDACTED]/)
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12608

October Seventh Commemoration. From Sorrow to Song
2025-10-05 19:00 - 20:30 | Temple Beth El 7400 Telegraph Rd, Bloomfield Hills
The Jewish Federation of Detroit invites you to join our community in marking
two years since the October 7, 2023, terror attacks.
Let’s gather to honor the memory of those we lost, pray for those still in
captivity, and stand together in tribute to the strength and resilience of the
Jewish people. The evening will include inspirational music from the Israeli
group HaShayara, from Dror Israel, whose songs have brought healing and hope
to displaced families, soldiers and Jewish communities worldwide since October
7. Guests will also experience a powerful exhibit of photography and artwork
created by our community, available to view before and after the
commemoration.
**6:00 pm** Gallery Exhibit
**7:00 pm** Program Begins
Pre-registration is required. Seating is limited and there will be no walk-ins
allowed. Please register today.
_We are committed to the safety of our community and will be providing
comprehensive security measures for this event._
**About HaShayara**
HaShayara is an ensemble of musicians and educators from Dror Israel who
believe in the healing power of music—turning gatherings into shared journeys
of strength and connection. One of Israel’s leading educational movements,
Dror Israel quickly mobilized to support evacuees during the war, with the
Detroit Federation as a critical partner. Their work continues today, helping
families and communities worldwide heal, rebuild and find hope.
**About the Exhibit**
Before the program, powerful images of October 7th and its aftermath will be
on display, captured by Detroit community members who traveled to Israel on
Federation solidarity missions over the past two years. After the program, the
exhibit will shift to stories of resilience—showing how our community has
stood with Israel in rebuilding, healing and finding hope together.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12885

Sunset in the Sukkah
2025-10-09 18:30 - 20:00 | Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue 1457 Griswold St, Detroit
We’re taking in the city views from the Samantha Woll Center for Jewish
Detroit rooftop patio (home of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue) and
enjoying an autumn sunset in the sukkah! Join us for a laidback Sukkot
celebration complete with cider, donuts and simanim inspired light bites.
Rabbi Yoni Dahlen from CSZ Village will also be joining us for some lulav and
etrog shaking. Bring old friends, make new friends and learn a bit more about
Federation’s LGBTQIA+ community building programs and events. Fall vibes, good
tunes, we can’t wait to see you there!
$10 per person.
Dietary laws observed.
Please register in advance by October 6.
**Thank you to our Leadership**
Pride Chairs – Brian Kutinsky (he/him) and Kerri Lanoue (She/Her)
Affinities Chairs – Jayme Kirschner (she/her) and Danny Singer (he/him)
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12943

Family Shabbat 2025
2025-10-17 17:00 - 20:00 | Knollwood Country Club 5050 W Maple Rd,
**THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT**
Come together with fellow NEXTGen Detroit and JFamily families for a joyful
and meaningful Shabbat evening! Enjoy Shabbat dinner and quality time with
your crew with plenty of fun for the kids including arts and crafts and a
bounce house to keep the little ones smiling all night long. Plus the chance
to snap a professional family photo.****Whether you’re a NEXTGen Detroit
regular or it’s your first event, this is the perfect chance to connect with
other young families and discover all that Federation and NEXTGen Detroit have
to offer. You don’t need to be a Knollwood Country Club member, all are
welcome!
Open to families with children ages 0-10
Kosher-style meal
Please note: No ripped jeans, or spaghetti strap tops
$55 per adult | $25 per child
Free for children ages 0-2
Please RSVP by Friday, October 10th
**Thank you to our event co-chairs:**
Sharon Fass
Lindsay Kalt
Stephanie Parzen
**Thank you to our event hosts:**
Ellie & Mitch Barnett
Lauren & Adam Blanck
Abi & Eric Berlin
Lauren & Dorin Deitch
Morgan & Danny Kaufman
Andrew & Maddi Luckoff
Emily & Zack Slabotsky
Jaime & Mitch Weiss
Jenna & Michael Wolf
Ashley Zlatopolsky & Joe Kudlacik
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12699

Nourish and Flourish at Yad Ezra
2025-10-19 12:00 - 14:00 | Yad Ezra 2850 W Eleven Mile Rd, Berkley
**Thank you for your interest in this program. It is sold out. Please email
Amy Wayne
at**([REDACTED]
be placed on the waitlist.**
Join TOV for a Sunday afternoon at Yad Ezra where we will lend a hand at one
of our community’s most vital resources. Some of us will work in the garden
while others will help in the warehouse during the serving sessions. What
better way to start the Jewish New Year than with some hands-on volunteering!
This event is open to Jewish women of all ages.
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and shoes to volunteer.
There is no cost to attend.
Please register in advance by October 13.
Thank you to our Leadership:
Robyn Glasser & Elana Miodownik, TOV Chairs
Naomi Gardin, Event Chair
Nancy Glen, WP President
Shelly Rubenfire, WP Campaign Chair
Ilana Liss, WP Vice President
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13029

Gather & Graze: An Olive Oil & Chocolate Tasting with Mongers Provisions
2025-10-22 19:00 - 21:00 | Private Residence Private Lake Dr,
Wake up your palate with NEXTGen Detroit! Sample the best of the best when it
comes to these culinary favorites: olive oil and chocolate! Our friends at
Monger’s Provisions will lead us through an insightful tasting and offer some
creative ideas for using these go-to ingredients in new and different ways.
We’re also excited to share that a few of the products we will be trying are
coming to us from Israel!
Until October 16: $35 per person.
After October 16: $45 per person.
Includes tasting, drinks and light bites.
A minimum donation to Federations 2026 Annual Campaign is suggested to attend
this event.
This event will be hosted at a private residence in Bloomfield Hills. The
address will be shared with registrants closer to the event.
Thank you to our event chairs: Karlee Goodwin and Gillian Porter
Thank you to our Israel and Overseas chairs: Benjamin Blumenstein and Jeffrey
Sondheimer
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/12932

Listen, Learn & Act: Stories that Move Us Forward with Noa Tishby
2025-10-28 16:00 - 20:30 | Oakland University 201 Meadow Brook Rd, Rochester
In response to rising campus antisemitism, Oakland University and the
Jewish Federation of Detroit present a multimedia experience sparking critical
conversations through powerful stories, and meaningful dialogue — creating
pathways for our community to listen, learn and act.
**Event Details**
**4-6:30 p.m. — Public Screening of “ _My Name is Sara_ ”**
Oakland Center Founders Ballroom | Public screening of Mickey Shapiro’s powerful, award-winning film that tells the true story of his mother, Sara Góralnik-Shapiro, a 12-year-old Jewish girl who survived the Holocaust.
**6:15-7 p.m. — Noa Tishby Book Signing**
Oakland Center second floor, near fireplaces | Tishby’s book “ _Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew_ ” will be available for purchase.
**7-7:30 p.m. — _ Behind the Film: Confronting Antisemitism Through Storytelling_** Oakland Center Founders Ballroom | Executive Producer Mickey Shapiro and Producer Stephen Smith lead an intimate discussion on the making of the film.
**7:30-8:30 p.m. — _Combating Antisemitism: A Conversation and Q &A_**
_with Noa Tishby_
Oakland Center Founders Ballroom | From historical context to the current challenges facing our communities, Noa Tishby leads a thought-provoking discussion on recognizing and combating antisemitism in all its forms on college campuses today. Moderated by David Kurzmann, Senior Director, Community Affairs at the Jewish Federation of Detroit.
Prior to the 7:00 program, we invite you to an exclusive reception with OU
President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz and our guest speakers, Mickey Shapiro, Noa
Tishby and Stephen Smith.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13412

Boo-ish and Jewish L'Chaim Detroit at Detroit Fleat
2025-10-30 18:30 - 21:30 | Detroit Fleat 1820 E 9 Mile Rd, Ferndale
Every month we meet up at a local watering hole, and you are always invited!
This month we’re raising a glass to all things spooky scary in Jewish culture
— from dybbuks and golems, to demons and estries. Grab a friend, or come solo
and make some new pals and meet us at Detroit Fleat in Ferndale.
Register in advance for $8 and your first drink is on us! And feel free to use
this as a dress rehearsal for your costume for the next night.
Join us for a hands-on service program with Repair the World as we pack
warming kits to support the Detroit Community Fridge.
**To show our _thanks_ for coming to this event, we’re hooking you up with a
special offer! All attendees will receive a special rate on a ticket to Oy!
What A Night: The Thanksgiving Eve Fundraiser at The Daxton.**
$12 per person on October 30.
This event is intended for young adults ages 21 to 39.
Thank you to our chairs: Jordan Lesson, Meredith Berlin and Aaron Brown
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13216

Pure Networking at The Peacock Room
2025-11-03 18:00 - 20:00 | Peacock Room 3011 W Grand Blvd, Detroit
Detroit’s destination for all things glamour and its impressive proprietress
will play hostess with the mostest to this edition of JWWN’s wildly popular
networking series. Pure Networking is heading to The Peacock Room in the
Fisher Building where owner Rachel Lutz will welcome us and share a bit about
her passion for brick-and-mortar and why it’s important to support local
business. Browse her carefully curated fashions and gifts while enjoying
drinks, light bites, and of course, some top-tier networking. Attendees will
also receive a $10 gift certificate to The Peacock Room.
$18 includes networking, light bites and soft drinks.
Dietary laws observed.
This event is open to all Jewish women.
Please register in advance by October 31.
Note: Parking is plentiful and inexpensive around The Fisher Building. Please
park at the north end of the building (Lothrop Street).
Thank you to our leadership:
Amy Strauss & Andrea Rokicsak, JWWN Co-Chairs
Stacy Doctoroff, WP Vice President
Nancy Glen, WP President
Shelly Rubenfire, WP Campaign Chair
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13107

Pre-Glow Dinner for The Jewish Federation's Attorneys Group
2025-11-10 17:30 - 19:00 | The J – Detroit 6600 W Maple Rd,
Join the Detroit Federation’s Attorneys Group for a pre-glow dinner and
networking opportunity before we head into The J’s highly anticipated Jewish
Book Fair program, _”Unveiled: Inside Iran’s #WomenLifeFreedom Revolt,”_ with
author Jonathan Harounoff.
Jonathan Harounoff is an acclaimed British-Iranian journalist now serving as
Israel’s international spokesperson to the United Nations. As a Jewish
Iranian, he has a unique perspective on the ongoing struggle for justice and
recognition in both Iran and Israel. Don’t miss this powerful evening and
conversation about geopolitics, history and human rights.
$36 per person, includes dinner and admission to The J’s Detroit Jewish Book
Fair program.
Spouses welcome
**About the Program:**
In 2022, a twenty-two-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman was killed by Iran’s
morality police in Tehran for allegedly wearing her hijab too loosely,
triggering nationwide outrage. Journalist Jonathan Harounoff, Israel’s
international spokesperson to the United Nations, demystifies the context
leading up to the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests, while paying tribute to the
people of Iran who have paid the ultimate price for freedom.
**In conversation with Professor Howard Lupovitch, Wayne State University**
**Free and in-Person at The J. Book signing following talk.**
**About the Author: **Jonathan Harounoff is an acclaimed British-Iranian
journalist now serving as Israel’s international spokesperson to the United
Nations. His writings and commentaries have appeared in several publications,
including The New York Post, The Los Angeles Times, Fox News, Newsweek, BBC,
Haaretz, The Jerusalem Post, The Jewish Chronicle and The Forward. He
previously served as director of communications at a D.C. think tank focused
on US security interests in the Middle East. He graduated from the
Universities of Cambridge and Columbia with degrees in journalism, Arabic and
Persian, and is also an alumnus of Harvard University where he studied
international relations and diplomacy. He lives in New York City with his
wife, Stephanie.
Thank you to our event chairs:
Jody Lipton, Tony Shapero, Marc Shefman, Peter Woll
Affinities Department Chairs:
Dr. Danny Singer and Jayme Kirschner
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13278

A Night at the Studio
2025-11-12 19:00 - 21:00 | Next Step Studio & Gallery 530 Hilton Rd, Ferndale
Savor the art of good food and good company as we gather for an inspiring
evening at Next Step Studio and Gallery in Ferndale for Jewish adults 40+.
We’ll enjoy light dinner and drinks from a local favorite, explore the art on
display and connect with community in this one-of-a-kind space curated by
artist Kaiser Suidan. Whether you’re an art lover, artist, collector or just
looking for a fun night out, this evening promises local flavor and a touch of
creativity.
$50 per person includes dinner and drinks.
Thank you to our event chairs:
Amy & Steve Ben-Ezra
Affinities Department Chairs
Jayme Kirschner & Danny Singer
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13319

Boker Tov, Detroit! at The Ferndale Project
2025-11-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Ferndale Project 567 Livernois, Ferndale
If happy hour and Sunday morning had a baby, it’d be Boker Tov, Detroit! Start
your Sunday Funday with a great cup of coffee, laid-back vibes, and some
casual mingling with fellow Jewish young adults. We’re taking over The
Ferndale Project for a chill morning hangout—complete with breakfast treats
and caffeinated drinks.
$5 per person when you pre-register.
$10 at the door.
Ticket price includes coffee and light breakfast.
Dietary laws observed.
This event is intended for young adults ages 21 to 39.
Thanks to our event co-chairs: Samantha Vine and Jared Sherman
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13514

An Imprint with Impact: Hat Burning with AR Workshop at the Gesher Clubhouse
2025-11-20 18:30 - 21:00 | Clubhouse for the Common Good – Gesher Human Services 23800 W 10 Mile Rd, Southfield
Calling all DIYers and fashion lovers: join Young Women’s Philanthropy for a
ladies night out of making some fall fashion and learning about a vital
program in our community that is supported by the work of Women’s Philanthropy
and the Jewish Federation! We’re taking a hat burning workshop with the
artistic pros at AR Workshop and transforming their stylish hats with a
personalized burning technique. Choose your hat color and dive into the
creative process, opting between stencil or freehand methods. It’s all taking
place at one of our community’s hidden gems — The Clubhouse for the Common
Good, housed in the Lois and Milton Y. Zussman Center. The Clubhouse was
designed by and for individuals with a mental health diagnosis who seek a
welcoming and engaging community atmosphere where they can enjoy social and
cultural activities, educational classes, culinary experiences, vocational
support, and volunteer opportunities.
$70 per person includes hat, workshop and supplies, light bites and drinks.
Refreshments will be kosher-style with a certified kosher option available
upon request.
This event is intended for Jewish women in their 30s and 40s.
Please RSVP in advance by November 13.
**Thank you to our Leadership:**
Lisa Rothberger and Emily Slabotsky, YWP Co-Chairs
Maddi Luckoff and Erin Simmerman, Event Chairs
Emily Hunegs, WP Vice President
Nancy Glen, WP President
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13349

Oy, What a Night!
2025-11-26 20:00 - 23:00, 2025-11-26 20:00 - 2025-11-27 01:00 | Daxton Hotel 298 S Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, United Kingdom
Thanksgiving Eve is known for being the booziest and schmooziest night of the
year, and we’re here for it! In true NEXTGen Detroit fashion, we’re keeping
all the fun of this annual tradition, but upping the experience (hello,
Daxton…bye, Roosevelts) and adding in an opportunity to make a meaningful
impact. No standing in a line wrapped around the block to get into the bar
this year — you’re walking right up to that velvet rope for a Thanksgiving Eve
reunion with all your favorite hometown homies. We’ll be making l’chaims,
noshing, connecting _and _supporting the work of the Jewish Federation and
its Annual Campaign.
**$20 per person until October 16 **includes two drink tickets and lite
bites.
In addition to the cost of a ticket, a minimum donation of **$36** to the
Jewish Federation’s 2026 Annual Campaign is required to attend this event.
**Your ticket purchase helps to cover the cost of the event, but your donation
to the Annual Campaign goes directly to support the work of the Jewish
Federation and our 16 local and international partner agencies. You can learn
more about how your $36 will impact countless lives
**(https://jfmdorg.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-
content/uploads/2025/09/15152615/25_JFD_Annual-Report_DIGITAL-r.pdf)**.**
Additional drink tickets available for $6 each.
**Ticket prices after October 16th:**
$30 per person from October 17 – November 6.
$40 per person from November 7 – November 19.
$50 per person from November 20 – November 26.
If you have already made a donation to Federation’s 2026 Annual Campaign,
please reach out to Ryan Otis at
([REDACTED] for a
specialized code to fully waive the donation fee.
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13312

Rebel Jews at MI-Combat Tactical Laser Tag
2025-12-03 18:00 - 20:30, 2025-12-03 18:30 - 20:30 | MI-Combat 29380 John R Rd, Madison Heights
Welcome to Rebel Jews! We’re on a mission to find the Jewish thrill-seekers,
boundary-breakers and dare devils of Metro Detroit — and do what they do!
Bring your sense of adventure, because we’re hanging up our Good Jewish
Boy/Girl/Person hats and doing something _meshugana_ for a change.
On this edition of Rebel Jews, we’re putting down our space lasers and picking
up our laser guns. But seriously folks, forget the black light meets neon duct
tape laser tag of your youth, this is a serious simulation. MI-Combat Tactical
Laser Tag is not for the timid. We’ll be jumping into an immersive gaming
experience, competing in thrilling missions on Hollywood style sets and using
realistic equipment with live noise and recoil. So, are you ready for combat?
$35 per person includes dinner and combat.
Certified kosher option available upon request.
Closed-toe shoes are required and athletic wear is recommended.
A minimum donation of $36 to Federation’s 2026 Annual Campaign is suggested to
attend this event.
This event is intended for young adults ages 21 to 39.
Thank you to our event co-chairs:
Noah Cohen, Sydney Yates and Adam York
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13587

Talking (Sweet) Shop: Noshing and Networking at Think Sweet
2025-12-09 18:00 - 19:30 | Think Sweet 32902 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills
Join NEXTWork, NEXTGen Detroit and Gesher’s top-shelf networking program at
Think Sweet, a joyful new addition to Metro Detroit’s kosher food scene. Owned
by Jack and Kayla Hazan, Think Sweet is a candy and treat destination born
from a simple but ambitious vision: create a place where people from all
backgrounds can enjoy a wide selection of kosher sweets, served with a warm
welcome. Treat yourself to top-tier networking while you build your own candy
bag and sample one of their signature slushies. You’ll also hear from Jack
about his inspiration for the store and what having a Jewish, family-owned
business means to him.
$18 includes networking, candy bag and signature slushie
Please RSVP no later than December 8.
Thank you to our Event Chairs:
Emily Elconin
Daniel Snyder
Arie Zeidner
**About Jack Hazan**
Jack Hazan is a Brooklyn-born entrepreneur who relocated to the Detroit area
with his wife, Kayla and their two children. With a background in marketing,
retail and wholesale spanning some 20 + years, he recognized a gap in the
local community’s sweet-treat landscape: a place where families****all
backgrounds****and those with dietary restrictions could enjoy candy and
confections in a welcoming, inclusive setting. Guided by his love of New
York’s vibrant kosher food scene, Jack founded Think Sweet to blend his retail
expertise with his passion for creating a joyful community space. The result:
a candy shop that is both a retail experience and a gathering spot bursting
with color, fun, and a sense of belonging.
**NEXTWork is brought to you by Gesher Human Services and NEXTGen Detroit.
Special thanks to the Hadas and Dennis Bernard NEXTWork Endowment Fund.**
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13513

Chanukah Babka Bake with Mandylicious
2025-12-10 18:30 - 20:00 | Temple Beth El 7400 Telegraph Rd, Bloomfield Hills
Mandylicious is coming to Detroit just in time to help us create something
extra special for our Chanukah spreads. Get ready to shape and sprinkle
festive and delicious Chanukah babkas with Instagram’s favorite baker putting
creative new twists on Jewish classics and make sweet holiday treats with you.
Bring along your kids and grandkids ages 12+ and make it a family fun night.
We will also have a TOV (Tikkun Olam Volunteers) station where you can pack
Chanukah parcels for Jewish seniors living in non-Jewish skilled nursing and
rehab facilities. Please arrive on time, our program with Mandy will begin
promptly at 6:45 PM.
$50 per adult. Kids 12+ are an additional $10 each. Ticket includes two babkas
per adult/family.
Please register in advance by December 3.
Dietary laws observed.
**More About Mandy**
Mandy Silverman founded Mandylicious in 2013 in Sharon, MA. Since then, she
has created over 300 unique challah and babka recipes and has developed a
worldwide following, including over 75,000 Instagram followers. Check out her
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mandyliciouschallah/).
**Thank you to our leadership:**
Andrea Belen, Jennifer Fishkind, Amye Goldhaber, Event Co-Chairs
Nancy Glen, WP President
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13432

Light Through Art: A Chanukah Lighting With Israeli Artists
2025-12-15 17:00 - 18:30 | Adat Shalom Synagogue 29901 Middlebelt Rd, Farmington Hills
Join us on the second night of Chanukah for a heartfelt evening celebrating
Israeli creativity, resilience and light.
Light Through Art: A Chanukah Lighting with Israeli Artists brings together
six Israeli artists for an intimate exhibit and sale of original works. In
this meet-and-greet setting, you’ll hear how the events of October 7th and the
war in Gaza have shaped their art and their lives.
We’ll close the evening by lighting the menorah together—a shared moment of
hope, resilience and solidarity through art.
Evening highlights:
* Meet six Israeli artists and hear their stories
* Explore and purchase original Israeli artwork
* Light the menorah for the second night of Chanukah
* Enjoy drinks and light Chanukah refreshments
* Connect in a warm, casual setting
This event is designed for art lovers and supporters of Israel seeking
inspiration and connection. Space is limited. RSVP now to be part of this
special evening.
To learn more about our featured artists, please download the PDF linked
(https://jfmdorg.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-
content/uploads/2025/11/12122906/Israeli-Artists-bios-2-1.pdf).
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13522

Newish and Jewish L'Chaim Detroit at Barkside
2026-01-15 18:00 - 20:30 | Barkside Southfield 15640 W Eleven Mile Rd, Southfield
Hey, welcome to Metro Detroit! Whether you’re just passing through or looking
to make the Motor City home, you picked a great place to hang your hat. We’d
love to welcome you and connect you with other newish and Jewish young adults
and everything the NEXTGen Detroit community has to offer. Meet us at Barkside
in Southfield for cool cocktails, casual mingling and tail-wagging fun. If
you’ve got a dog, bring ’em along — but if not, no worries, just bring
yourself!
$8 per person includes one drink ticket.
If you are bringing a pup please complete the following forms:
**Waiver:**(https://form.jotform.com/232984202857160)
**Registration:**(https://barksidedogbar.portal.gingrapp.com/#/public/new_customer)
Thank you to our event co-chairs: Gianni Carli, Rachel Edelman and Andrew
Klein
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14004

Lessons from Israel's Frontlines: Learning from Iron Sword Brain Injuries with Dr. Guy Rosenthal
2026-01-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Michigan Design Center 1700 Stutz Dr, Troy
Join Federation’s Maimonides Society for an evening with Dr. Guy Rosenthal,
renowned neurosurgeon and the Director of Neurotrauma and Neurocritical Care,
Department of Neurosurgery at Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center in
Jerusalem.
Dr. Rosenthal will discuss his experience in Israel with brain injured war
casualties from October 7 onward. Just a month before the war broke out, he
was involved in the group that formulated the new Guidelines for Penetrating
Traumatic Brain Injuries in Bethesda at the initiative of the U.S. Department
of Defense. Dr. Rosenthal will share how Israel used the draft of the
Guidelines to coordinate care across centers in Israel and has collected data
from four neurosurgical centers on severely brain injured patients from the
war.
$36 includes presentation by Dr. Rosenthal, cocktails, appetizers and
desserts.
Dietary laws observed.
Spouses are welcome.
Please RSVP by January 13, 2026.
In addition to the cost of a ticket, we ask that all attendees who have not
done so already, please give a gift to Federation’s 2026 Annual Campaign.
**Thank you to our Leadership**
Maimonides Society Co-Chairs:
Dr. David Siegel and Dr. Brooke Weingarden
Affinities Department Co-Chairs:
Dr. Danny Singer and Jayme Kirschner
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13946

Pack It Forward: A Volunteer Opportunity with Detroit Chesed
2026-01-21 18:15 - 19:45 | Detroit Chesed Project 30555 Southfield Rd, Southfield
**This event is now sold out. If you would like to be put on the waitlist
please email Amy Wayne at awayne@jewishdetroit.org.**
Join Women’s Philanthropy’s Tikkun Olam Volunteers (TOV) at the Detroit Chesed
in Southfield for an evening of packing it forward! Together, we’ll assemble
packages of Shabbat food that will be delivered to local families that very
evening, prepare baby supply bundles for the Baby Boom program, and create
care packages for women in the hospital to help make their stay a bit more
comfortable.
You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the many ways Detroit Chesed helps
families in Jewish Detroit. Bring your friends and help us brighten someone’s
day — let’s get packing!
There is no cost to attend this event, however, we ask that you kindly RSVP by
January 12.
**Thank you to our Leadership**
Elana Miodownik and Robyn Glasser, TOV Chairs
Jessica Klein and Erin Stiebel, Event Chairs
Nancy Glen, WP President
Shelly Rubenfire, WP Campaign Chair
Ilana Liss, WP Vice President
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/13832

Choosing Light Over Darkness: An evening with Iris and Tuval Haim
2026-01-27 19:00 - 20:30
Iris and Tuval Haim are the mother and brother of **Yotam Haim z”l**, who was
taken hostage from Kfar Aza on October 7 and, after 70 days in Gaza, was
tragically killed by IDF fire. We invite you to join us to hear their
remarkable story and to experience Tuval’s moving music, created in loving
memory of his brother.
_“We cannot choose what happens to us, but we can choose who we become because
of it.”_
Even after receiving the devastating news of Yotam’s death, Iris chose
resilience. Turning her pain into purpose and her grief into a source of
healing for others. Her courage calls us to come together, to listen and to
honor.
This event is coming up and space is limited. Please reserve your seat today.
**Due to the sensitive nature of this program’s content, it is recommended for
ages 16 and older. **
View event on Jlive: https://jlive.app/events/14237
