Chanukah
Chanukah Boxes of Warmth - The Beri Foundation, Ukraine (2024)
The Beri Foundation in Ukraine sponsored a program called “Chanukah Boxes of Warmth” that reached 600 families impacted by the war with Russia, including many families with children. Each box contained a warm blanket, Israeli sweets, and a set of Chanukah postcards. The postcards featured interactive educational content about Chanukah traditions, the history of the holiday and its significance to Judaism.
Violette Koshina, the organizer, says “What I liked most about the program was the strong sense of community it fostered. It was heartwarming to see families coming together, sharing their experiences, and participating in the joy of the holiday, regardless of their background.”
Marketing: The program was promoted through social media campaigns on Facebook and Instagram. Eye-catching posts featured the content of the boxes and stories about some of the people receiving the boxes. Collaboration with local organizations helped broaden outreach and community support.
As one participant said:
“The box gave us more than physical items, it gave us hope and a sense of belonging.”
“I loved the sweets and the postcards. I learned that Chanukah is special, even though things are difficult right now.”
- 7-year old from Mariupol
What Worked Well:
The NCEJ grant enabled the creation and distribution of high-quality, visually appealing educational materials that introduced the themes and values of Chanukah in an attractive format, making learning enjoyable for all, especially children.
The program created a sense of community among participants.
The interactive postcards engaged families and helped spread a knowledge of Jewish tradition and culture among people from a mix of backgrounds.
Looking Ahead:
If given the opportunity, Beri Foundation would like to:
- Organize hands-on workshops or virtual events that would allow families to come together, share experiences, and participate in activities related to the themes of the holidays.
- Gather more feedback from participants throughout the process in order to better tailor content to their interests and needs.
“Overall, the combination of beautiful content and heartfelt community engagement created a truly meaningful experience.”
- Violetta Koshina
My First Chanukah - Hillel Poland (2024)
Hillel Poland’s Chanukah program consists of a series of 5 educational and cultural events. These gatherings, held in Warsaw and Krakow, will explore the significance of light in Judaism, delve into the story of Chanukah, and engage participants through interactive workshops and communal celebrations. Each event will feature a facilitator to guide the discussions. The program is designed for people interested in exploring or reconnecting to their Jewish identity, those in the process of converting to Judaism, and friends and partners of Hillel students.
Marketing: The program will be advertised across Hillel Poland’s social media and in the newsletter. Hillel Poland will also distribute posters to advertise the event.
Chanukah bags: Each participant will receive a Chanukah bag containing:
- Chanukiah and candles
- A graphic guide on how to light the candles- designed by a Hillel participant
- A Chanukah-themed postcard designed by a community member
- Chocolate gelt
- Chanukah socks
- A tote bag decorated with Chanukah symbols
Creating a Connection to Jewish Identity
“Our program directly [addresses] the needs of individuals, who have Jewish roots but lack any Jewish education, and their close ones, as well as those who are in the process of converting to Judaism and are seeking a welcoming community.”- Magda Dorosz, Executive Director
Providing Tools for a Meaningful Jewish Home: Hillel Poland empowers participants to bring the spirit of Chanukah into their homes by providing educational sessions on the story and values of Chanukah, as well as by distributing practical items like candles, prayer guides, and holiday-themed materials. This fosters a meaningful connection to their Jewish identity, whether they are rediscovering their heritage or embracing it for the first time.
Creating a Welcoming Jewish Community: Many of the participants, particularly those converting to Judaism and those who are not connected to the religious part of Judaism, but who still want to be close to Judaism, are searching for a community where they feel accepted, understood, and supported. Hillel’s program offers a space where they can learn, experience, engage, and celebrate without fear of exclusion. By providing a sense of pride in Jewish identity, Hillel helps participants feel comfortable and confident in their choice not to celebrate Christmas.
Donuts in the Dark - The JCC of Greater Pittsburgh, (JCCPGH) (2020)
Shining a light on the determination of the Maccabees, families were challenged to create a chanukiah using donuts, donut holes, frosting, and other edible treats. Once all families completed their challenge, everyone recited the blessings and “light” the chanukiyot using glow sticks for candles.
Holiday Programming
Find ideas for advertising your program by checking out our Marketing Gallery
Check out our Marketing Gallery. NCEJ reimburses for some of the costs for graphic design and printing. Examples of promotional material we have funded recently include: print and digital ads, banners, postcards, brochures, and flyers. We encourage grantees to consider trying hyperlocal media as well as national sources.
Helpful Links and Additional Resources
We add articles and links for Jewish holidays here on our Resources page. If you would like to feature your page or program, please contact us, as we update this list throughout the year to help others with their programs.
Have a Question? Reach Out to Us
Have an idea but not sure it meets our guidelines? Please reach out to us at 301-802-4254, or contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director.