As members of this vibrant JCC community, each of us plays an integral role in creating the warmth, support, and connection that we all treasure. During times of change, growth, or even challenge, there’s a question we can ask ourselves that holds profound meaning and power: “How can I/we help?” Earlier this week, I saw firsthand how JCC staff asked this very question and the positive results it garnered.

On Monday, our early childhood educators gathered for a day of in-service training and collaboration. I had the pleasure of participating in an afternoon session with the team from our South Hills location during which we utilized the Dilemma Consultancy Protocol to more efficiently explore an important operating issue. While the protocol helped participants resist jumping to solutions and encouraged us to be kind, helpful, and specific and to “share the air,” the best part of the discussion was when we tackled our respective roles in creating and mitigating against the operational issue we were addressing. Instead of just focusing on what someone else could or should do, we took a moment to ask, “How can I/we help to get to a better place?” What a beautiful demonstration of two of the Sheva Lenses through which we view our work – Brit, which calls upon us to develop healthy relationships filled with honor, trust, honesty, and faith and Tikkun Olam, which encourages us to be partners in addressing our dissatisfaction with the way things are and to act now, not later.

While the protocol helped participants resist jumping to solutions and encouraged us to be kind, helpful, and specific and to “share the air,” the best part of the discussion was when we tackled our respective roles in creating and mitigating against the operational issue we were addressing. Instead of just focusing on what someone else could or should do, we took a moment to ask, “How can I/we help to get to a better place?”

What a beautiful demonstration of two of the Sheva Lenses through which we view our work – Brit, which calls upon us to develop healthy relationships filled with honor, trust, honesty, and faith and Tikkun Olam, which encourages us to be partners in addressing our dissatisfaction with the way things are and to act now, not later.While no concrete answers came out of the session, when we ask this simple question, “How can I/we help,” we open doors to building a more inclusive and thriving community. It invites collaboration and shows a willingness to share our time, skills, and compassion. Whether it’s lending a hand at an event, welcoming a new community member, supporting a cause, or offering a listening ear—each act of help strengthens the fabric of our workplace and our community.

At the heart of our mission is a commitment to a nurturing and supportive environment where everyone feels they belong. By asking, “How can I/we help,” we each become active builders of the community we envision, and together, we can redefine what’s possible.

Thank you to our early childhood educators for showing up, for your care, and for every moment you ask yourselves what you can do to make our school the best it can be. Your commitment and your passion are a BIG part of what makes our JCC a place of warmth, growth, and connection.

Wishing you and your families a Shabbat shalom,

Jason