Though it’s not the Jewish new year, it can still be a time for Jews to reflect and make resolutions. And even though we do not need to repent, we can still do better in 2024.
Here is what some local Jewish community leaders are working on as they look ahead.
Rachel Zivic, Head of School for the Kellman Brown Academy (Voorhees, New Jersey)
“Now more than ever, Jewish leaders should RESOLVE to inspire unequivocal support for the state of Israel and lay the strongest possible foundation for our children to be proud, knowledgeable and committed Jews. Let us continue to roll up our sleeves and do the holy work of ensuring an American Yisrael Chai.”
Gary Glaser, Director of Camp Nock-A-Mixon (Kintnersville, Pennsylvania)
“Like what I think is probably true for everyone, I would like to make some healthier choices in the new year. Eat less sugar, drink less coffee, work out a bit more, be more productive and spend more time with the kids.
“Diving more deeply, I’m among the many who has been disturbed by the events in Israel, sickened by the surprise attack by Hamas, sickened by the images of everyone suffering in the Mideast, worried about the rise in antisemitism as a Jewish man, Jewish father and the director of a Jewish camp. For the new year, I would like to find opportunities to promote peace, reduce antisemitism and take more time to appreciate what I do have.”
Rabbi Sam Yolen, Kesher Israel Congregation (West Chester)
“While I try to make my resolutions for Rosh Hashanah, it’s always nice to reengage around the secular new year! For 2024, I would like to continue beginning every class with a donation to an Israeli cause. I’d like to be less critical of myself and others, avoiding presumptions that don’t serve me. I’d like to break a sweat exercising every day (yoga, cycling, weights, running). I’d like to spend a few minutes waking up every morning in gratitude for people and experiences around me (there’s a lot to be thankful for! And it changes my whole day). I’d like to travel to the city to meet new friends. And I’d like to play fetch more often with my dog – it would mean the world to her!”
Lindsay Blum Schlesinger, Director of Southampton Summer Day Camp (Bucks County)
“Spread kindness; and meditate.”
Sara Sideman, Director of the JCC Camps at Medford (South Jersey)
“My new year’s resolution is to continue to find ways to build strong Jewish identity, pride and connection within my children.”
Jared Solomon, State Representative for Pennsylvania’s 202nd District (Northeast Philadelphia)
“More than ever, in 2024 we as Jewish Americans need to recommit to the hard work of building multiethnic, interfaith allyship. My resolution is to do that work in Harrisburg and across Pennsylvania building solidarity against hatred of all forms, be it antisemitism, Islamophobia, bigotry or racism.
“On a personal level, my 2024 resolution is to spend more time listening to Taylor Swift with my daughter Charlotte!”
Rabbi Benjamin David, Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel (Elkins Park)
“To continue to provide safe, robust and inclusive programming for our teens in a world that feels scary. To lean into Israel programming that is intellectually honest, welcoming and comforting. To strengthen relations with non-Jewish institutions amid a time that threatens to pull us apart.”
Rabbi David Englander, Congregation Beth El (Voorhees, New Jersey)
“My resolution is to do what I can to contribute to maintaining the incredible unity of the Jewish people and Israel following Oct. 7, as we continue to pray and work for security and peace.”
Andre Krug, President and CEO of KleinLife (Northeast Philadelphia)
“As we step into the new year, KleinLife reaffirms its commitment to stand against rising antisemitism and promote unity amidst diversity. In a world challenged by conflicts like the recent Israel-Hamas war, we, as a Jewish community center, embrace individuals from over 40 nations, including nearly 2,000 Ukrainian refugees. Facing the current challenges, KleinLife continues to serve and support vulnerable seniors, children and immigrants residing in Northeast Philadelphia. Our resolution for the year ahead is to continue to provide vital services to the most vulnerable among us.”
Michael Balaban, President and CEO of The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia
“My resolution for 2024 is to increase our efforts to care for those in need, combat antisemitism and strengthen Jewish identity. The Jewish Federation will expand our efforts in securing our Jewish present and future, working with our allies and providing opportunities for our community to make an impact. As we enter a new year, may we keep the remaining hostages in our hearts and take the necessary actions for their safe return along with the actions that will enable the Jewish community to be safe and thrive.”
Alan Scher, CEO of The Kaiserman JCC (Wynnewood)
“This year is my older daughter’s bat mitzvah – amidst everything, therefore, I commit to always making the time to properly celebrate the mazel that comes our way.”
