The J - St. Louis

Christmas Matinee Movie & Hanukkah Candle Lighting
2024-12-25 15:00 - 18:00 (America/Chicago) | MO
Join us to watch a G-rated movie at the J! This year, since December 25 is the first night of Hanukkah, we will light the first candle after our family-friendly film. Kosher concessions will be on sale to raise funds for the J’s Family Center.
Wednesday, December 25 | 3pm
Mirowitz Performing Arts Center
Free Admission

Hanukkah Pop-up Bar at Ballpark Village
2024-12-28 19:00 - 22:00 | Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63102, United States
Join for our first-ever Hanukkah pop-up bar in Ballpark Village! Wear your ugliest Hanukkah Sweater to drink and eat Hanukkah-themed food and cocktails while we listen to live Hanukkah music and entertainment. Themed food and drinks on sale at the bar.
Ballpark Village, Downtown St. Louis
7-10pm
No RSVP required

New Year's Eve Eve Hanukkah Party
2024-12-30 16:00 - 19:00 | The Hub in Chesterfield, 17057 N Outer 40 Rd, Chesterfield, MO, 63006, United States
Join the Jewish community to celebrate Hanukkah and the pending New Year! All of the businesses at the District will be open for the festivities. We will light a digital menorah and have an early New Year’s Eve ball drop with live music and entertainment.
The Hub in Chesterfield
Monday, December 30 | 4pm
Free | No RSVP required

Songleader Boot Camp (SLBC) National Conference
2025-02-16 - 2025-02-18 | The J – Staenberg Family Complex (Fitness Center), 2 Millstone Campus Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63110, United States
Teens and Adults. SLBC is an intensive leadership training program for rabbis, cantors, educators and all others interested in offering a profound exploration of the physiology, psychology, strategy and execution behind inspirational Jewish teaching and song leading. SLBC participants experience a powerful three-day immersion program.
Staenberg Family Complex/Creve Coeur
Sunday-Tuesday, February 16-18
8am-9pm
$425 for St. Louis participants

Yom Hazikaron Ceremony
2025-04-29 19:00 - 20:00 | MO
Tuesday, April 29
Ceremony at 7pm
The J – Creve Coeur, Mirowitz Performing Arts & Banquet Center
Free but RSVP required
Join us on April 29 for a solemn and meaningful Yom Hazikaron ceremony. Yom Hazikaron is Israel’s official Remembrance Day for Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror, and this event will pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of Israel, as well as to the victims of terrorism. A special tribute will be held for those affected by the tragic events of October 7, 2023.
The ceremony will feature guest speakers, music, and a moment of silence, providing an opportunity for reflection and remembrance. The community is invited to come together to honor the fallen heroes of Israel and to reflect on the resilience of those who continue to defend the nation.
Register Here
For more information, contact Naomi Elbaz at nelbaz@jccstl.org

Yom Hazikaron Ceremony
2025-04-29 19:00 - 20:00 | MO
Monday, April 20
Join us on April 29 for a solemn and meaningful Yom Hazikaron ceremony. Yom Hazikaron is Israel’s official Remembrance Day for Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terror, and this event will pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of Israel, as well as to the victims of terrorism. A special tribute will be held for those affected by the tragic events of October 7, 2023.
The ceremony will feature guest speakers, music, and a moment of silence, providing an opportunity for reflection and remembrance. The community is invited to come together to honor the fallen heroes of Israel and to reflect on the resilience of those who continue to defend the nation.
For more information, contact Naomi Elbaz at nelbaz@jccstl.org

Yom Ha'atzmaut
2025-05-01 17:00 - 19:00 | MO
Thursday, May 1
5pm
Staenberg Family Complex
Come celebrate Israel’s Independence Day with a spectacular Yom Ha’atzmaut event! The festivities will begin with a powerful exhibit, Humans of October 7th, a moving and thought-provoking presentation. Following the exhibit, the official Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration will feature exciting activities, live entertainment, and cultural experiences for the whole family.
Yom Ha’atzmaut highlights include:
Face Painting
Balloon Twisting
Caricature Artist
Cookie Decorating
Motek Jewelry
Cotton Candy & Popcorn Stands
Shaving Israel Booth
Federation Information Table
Petting Zoo
Magician Performance
Traditional Israeli Folk Dancing (Rikudei Am)
This vibrant event promises something for everyone, from engaging cultural experiences to family-friendly activities and captivating performances. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to celebrate, connect, and enjoy a night of Israeli pride and joy with our community.
Register Here
For more information, contact Naomi Elbaz at nelbaz@jccstl.org

Lag B'Omer Family Picnic
2025-05-16 17:30 - 18:30 | Creve Coeur Lake Park, 13725 Marine Ave, St. Louis, 63146, United States
Friday, May 16 | 5:30pm
Creve Coeur Lake Park
All Ages
Join us for Shabbat in the park for a picnic to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Lag B’Omer. We will learn about the holiday, celebrate Shabbat and get some fresh pre-summer air.
Free but registration required.
Register Here

Beyond Breast Cancer
2025-05-22 17:30 - 19:30 | MO
Beyond Breast Cancer: BRCA Gene Mutations and the Risk of Gastrointestinal, Pancreatic, and Skin Cancers
Thursday, May 22
5:30 Light Refreshments
6-7:30pm Program Q&A
The J – Mirowitz Performing Arts & Banquet Center
Certified genetic counselor(s) will discuss hereditary cancer and the crucial role of genetic counseling in understanding risks. Specialists in gastroenterology and dermatology will discuss how BRCA genes and other related genes may influence the risk for cancers beyond breast and gynecologic cancers, such as pancreatic cancer and melanoma. They will discuss methods of quantifying risk for these cancers, as well as effective screening programs to reduce the risk of developing these cancers.
Register Here

Erin Beaver, MS, CGC
A licensed, certified Genetics Counselor currently working as a full-time clinical genetic counselor in oncology at the Missouri Baptist Breast Healthcare Center. She is also an adjunct faculty at the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences (UAMS) genetic counseling program advising students in their thesis research.

Susan Jones, MS, CGC
A licensed, certified Genetic Counselor at Missouri Baptist, she trained at the University of Cincinnati and initially worked in pediatric and prenatal genetics before focusing on cancer genetics. Passionate about its actionable impact, she worked at Siteman Cancer Center in the Gyn-Onc Genetics Clinic, specializing in ovarian and uterine cancers. She now sees patients with various hereditary cancer concerns.

Dr. Koushik Das, MD, FASGE, AGAF
An Associate Professor of Medicine at Washington University in St Louis where he serves as director of endoscopic research and associate program director of the gastroenterology fellowship program. He completed his undergraduate and medical education at Columbia University, internal medicine residency at Massachusetts General Hospital, and gastroenterology and therapeutic endoscopy fellowships at the University of Pennsylvania. His work is primarily focused in basic, translational, and clinical research in pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and pancreatic cystic disease. His primary clinical focus has been in high risk gastrointestinal cancer genetics, building a multidisciplinary program with partners in medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation, oncology, colorectal surgery, and medical genetics to help patients who are at risk for pancreatic, stomach, and colon cancers.

Dr. David Chen, MD, PhD
An Assistant Professor of Medicine and Associate Chief for Research in the Division of Dermatology at Washington University School of Medicine, where he provides care for patients with advanced melanoma and other skin malignancies. He graduated from the Medical Scientist Training Program at Washington University School of Medicine, where he also completed his postgraduate training in dermatology through the Oliver Langenberg Physician Scientist Training Program. Dr. Chen’s research focuses on defining the role of epigenetic changes in the skin that predispose individuals to cancer development. Dr. Chen serves on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network melanoma guidelines committee.

Shavuot Ice Cream Meet-up
2025-06-01 11:00 - 14:00 | FroYo Frozen Yogurt, 10909 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur, 63141, United States
Families. For the holiday of Shavuot, cool off with some frozen yogurt. Stop by anytime, open house style and 20% of the proceeds will be donated back to the J.
Addie Meister, ameister@jccstl.org

Nishmah & NJT: Peace, Love & Panel
2025-06-12 17:00 - 21:00 | MO
Doors, Dinner & Panel: 5:15pm
Show start time: 7pm
Staenberg Family Complex – Arts & Education Building
Join us for the first of its kind! Peace, Love & Panel, an intergenerational look at career and motherhood throughout the decades. Local women will share their stories of balancing work and a family, representing multiple generations. Following dinner and the panel, we will watch the hit NJT Show, The Heidi Chronicles. Click the registration link to buy tickets and for more information!
$60 ticket for dinner and the show
Register Here

PRIDE Community Shabbat
2025-06-20 17:30 - 19:30 | The J – Staenberg Family Complex (Camp Pavilion), 2 Millstone Campus Drive, St. Louis, MO, 63146, United States
June is LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, and the St. Louis Jewish community is coming together for a Pride Shabbat celebration! We’re inviting all who identify, their allies and families of all kinds to join us for a community-wide event with snacks, games, music, and other activities. Pre-registration is encouraged. The Pride Shabbat Picnic is made possible by support from the Helene Mirowitz Center of Jewish Community Life Fund and sponsored by the J, Jewish Federation of St. Louis, Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School, JCRC and PJ Library.

Israeli Culinary Institute UNPLUGGED: Salatim Edition
2025-07-01 18:00 - 20:00 | MO
Adults 21+. Spice up your culinary skills at our Israeli Cooking Class with Naomi, our Israeli Shalicha! Learn to make Salatim, an Israeli favorite. Enjoy a culinary journey at the J that’ll leave you hungry for more. Don’t miss out!

End-of-Summer Bash at the Pool with the J's Family Center and PJ Library
2025-08-24 10:00 - 12:00 | MO
Join the J’s Family Center, Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School, PJ Library, and the Jewish Federation for an end-of-summer bash at the J’s Staenberg Family Complex Pool in Creve Coeur. Let’s celebrate the end of the summer with one last splash before school starts up again. Families, siblings, and grandparents welcome. Registration required.
Register Now

Lynnie's Light for Life 2025
2025-09-10 19:00 - 21:00 | MO
Please join us for our annual gathering as we shine a light on the work of
The Hamsa Wellness Community and Nishmah, the St. Louis Jewish Women’s Project.
Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 7pm
Mirowitz Performing Arts and Banquet Center
Donations of all levels are appreciated.
Leaf of Light
Honor or remember someone with a Leaf of Light at the event with a donation of $118 or more. Leaves will help build our tree of life at the event.
Pillar Sponsorships
Become a pillar of connection, hope, education, strength, and support for others! Each Pillar includes a Leaf of Light.
Pillar of Connection – $10,000
Pillar of Hope – $5,000
Pillar of Education – $2,500
Pillar of Strength – $1,000
Pillar of Support – $500
Donate
Donate in Honor of Debbi Braunstein
Debbi Braustein has made the Hamsa Wellness Community the cancer support program that it is today. From Beyond Pink to Monthly Support Groups to Strength Over Cancer, Debbi has left her mark on our community.
In honor of Debbi’s retirement from the J, we are asking anyone who has been impacted by her work to donate to Lynnie’s Light for Life.
We thank Debbi for her immeasurable impact on our community, and we thank all of you for your support.
Donate For Debbi

Pillar of Life Award
We are proud to announce the creation of a special recognition that will be given annually at Lynnie’s Light for Life. The Pillar of Life Award celebrates an individual who has made a meaningful impact on the cancer community and demonstrated exceptional support for the mission and work of The Hamsa Wellness Community at the J. The award recognizes those who embody the spirit of Hamsa’s five foundational pillars—Connection, Hope, Education, Strength, and Support—whether through advocacy, education, compassionate care, or community engagement. The recipient exemplifies a deep commitment to empowering individuals and families facing a diagnosis through increased awareness and meaningful support.

Dr. Ron Bose, MD, PhD
Pillar of Life Award Recipient
Dr. Ron Bose is a medical oncologist who focuses on breast cancer patients and breast cancer research. He has worked at the Siteman Cancer Center and Washington University School of Medicine for 18 years.
He earned his MD and PhD degrees from Cornell University. His PhD is in cancer research and he did this research at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. He first came to St. Louis in 1999 to do internship and residency at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. He then went back to the East Coast for 5 years to do Medical Oncology fellowship and research at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. He was recruited back to St. Louis in 2007 to work at Siteman.
Dr. Bose shares a meaningful connection with the Palan and Isaacs family—most notably with the late Lynne Isaacs Palan z”l, whose commitment to the J’s cancer support services inspired the creation of Lynnie’s Light for Life. Dr. Bose developed a deep bond with the family and, in turn, a lasting commitment to the broader community. He actively participates in the J’s cancer support initiatives, including Beyond Pink, an annual day of education, exercise, and wellness, and frequently shares his expertise at hereditary cancer awareness events. Dr. Bose also encourages his patients to connect with The Hamsa Wellness Community’s Breast and Ovarian Cancer Support Group. His decades of service in cancer research and compassionate care exemplify the mission of the Hamsa Wellness Community and make him a deserving recipient of the inaugural Pillar of Life Award.

Thank You to the Lynnie’s Light for Life Committee!
Co-Chairs
Vickie Shuchart & Ricki Tischler
General Committee
Marcie Brook, Amy Burman, Lisa Cohen, Nikki Goldfeder, Judith Isaacs, Marcia Lisker,
Michelle Mills, Rhonda Oberman, Griffin Palan, Debbie Polinsky, Clare Richardson, Sheri Schneider-Dicker, Tracey Singer
Staff
Debbi Braunstein, Director, Hamsa Wellness Community
Avital Kadosh, Director, Jewish Experience & Innovation
Emilie Brockman, Manager, Jewish Community Engagement

About Lynnie’s Light

In 2013 the J established Sharsheret Supports STL, a program of Nishmah, and a community partner of the national Sharsheret organization. Through personalized support and lifesaving education, this program has improved lives of women and families living with or at increased genetic risk for breast or ovarian cancer. Inspired by the success of this program, the J is proud to expand our focus and launch The Hamsa Wellness Community. This expansion allows for the continuation of our current activities while broadening our educational programming to address a broader range of hereditary cancers that impact both women and men. This also allows for the expansion of free psychosocial support to those facing a cancer diagnosis or at risk of developing a hereditary cancer. The Hamsa Wellness Community will focus on pillars of Connection, Hope, Education, Support and Strength.
Lynn Isaacs Palan (Lynnie) was a pioneer and leader of both Nishmah: The St. Louis Jewish Women’s Project and Sharsheret Supports STL. Through her passionate volunteerism and professional work in these organizations and many others, she was dedicated to building vibrant communities and changing lives, especially for individuals living with, or at increased genetic risk of developing cancer. Lynnie lost her battle to breast cancer on April 10, 2018, leaving a legacy of philanthropy among her family, friends, and the entire St. Louis community. Lynnie’s passion and drive will forever remain the legacy of The Hamsa Wellness Community and Nishmah.
For more information or to donate to Lynnie’s Legacy, contact Director of the Hamsa Wellness Community, Chelsea Leon, at cleon@jccstl.org.

Nishmah Women’s Retreat
2025-09-12 - 2025-09-14 | Camp Sabra – The Staenberg Peninsula, 30750 Camp Sabra Road, Rocky Mt, MO, 65072, United States
Adult Women. Join us for a very special Shabbat retreat set at the J’s breathtaking Camp Sabra at the Lake of the Ozarks for the very first time! We will gather for learning, entertainment, great kosher food, Pre-Rosh Hashanah prep, Shabbat services with special one-of-a-kind sessions, and more! Registration is required.
Activities include:

Yoga
Hiking
Canoeing and Kayaking
Land Sports
Tie Dye
Pre-Shabbat Drum Circle
Israel Panel with women recently returning from Israel
Happy Hours
Bonfires and S’mores
Arts & Crafts

Session topics include:

Menopause
Aging Parents
Mental Health and strategies for coping with stress
The neuroscience of transformational change
Motherhood
Rosh Chodesh Circles
Writing workshop
Vision boards
Ceramics
Song Circles
The transformational power of summer camp
Body positivity and acceptance
The power of female friendship
Nishmah’s September book club will meet at the retreat (Book: Rising out of Hatred, by Eli Saslow)
Israeli Sport: Catchball
Israel panel
A session with our new Israeli Shlichah

Camp Sabra
Friday-Sunday | September 12-14
Price
Cabin Lodging: $250
Climate Control Lodging: $325
Register Here
Thank you to our Retreat Committee!

Jennifer Baer
Lisa Binowitz
Stacy Berger
Stephanie Brown
Laurie Burstein
Marianne Chervitz
Ann Mayer Eisen
Jessica Fischoff
Jada Fox
Lori Goldberg
Sabrina Gornish
Katie Rice-Guter
Claudia Hall
Iris Hinderliter

Kari Kramer
Raquel Leverson
Maxine Mirowitz
Erin Pernikoff
Emily Perlstadt
Simone Picker
Jen Rich
Jessica Shafrin
Vickie Shuchart
Carly Sparks
Ally Vesper
Shelby-Wolf Wilhelm
Jen Wittner

Rosh Hashanah Apple Picking
2025-09-28 12:00 - 16:00 | Mills Apple Farm, 11477 Pocahontas Rd, Marine, IL, 62061, United States
***Please note the changes in event time and location.***
Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with the J at Mills Apple Farm! Join us for a fun day of apple picking for the whole family; come anytime from noon to 4pm. This event is especially great for families with young children!
FREE | Registration is required.

Register

Beats in the Booth: A Nishmah Sukkot Gathering
2025-10-08 19:30 - 21:00 | MO
ADULT WOMEN
Come together with a vibrant community of Jewish women to celebrate the joy of Sukkot under the stars! Enjoy a soulful evening featuring a lively drum circle, cozy bonfire, delicious s’mores, and meaningful moments of connection, music, and spirituality. Let’s embrace the spirit of the holiday with laughter, drumming, and the beauty of the outdoors under the Sukkah.
REGISTER

Safari in the Sukkah: A J Family Center Event
2025-10-09 16:30 - 18:30 | The J – Marilyn Fox Building (Main Entrance), 16801 Baxter Road, Chesterfield, MO, 63005, United States
FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN **Please note the change in end time**
Join the J Family Center, our Early Childhood Center at the J, PJ Library, and all our friends for a special Sukkot spectacular! Gather for a Sukkot open house with a petting zoo and activities, both family-friendly and exciting for adults alike. Shake the lulav and etrog, sing, and schmooze with many special animal guests.
REGISTER

Israeli Culinary Institute: Shakshuka Edition
2025-10-23 18:00 - 20:00 | MO
Adults 21+

Back by popular demand! Join Naomi Elbaz, our Shlichah, as she brings us her take on Shakshuka in our 5th Israeli-infused cooking class. We will explore both red and green Shakshuka with a hands-on cooking and food prep experience. Dessert, drinks and the meal will all be served family style.
REGISTER

Beyond Pink 2025: A Morning of Exercise, Education & Wellness
2025-10-26 10:00 - 13:00 | MO
Go BEYOND PINK! with a Morning of Exercise, Education & Wellness
Register Today
Join us for a free morning dedicated to wellness, strength, and knowledge. Learn about hereditary cancers and risk reduction strategies while challenging yourself with movement classes designed to help you commit to being the healthiest version of yourself—today and every day.
Guests can participate in several specialty classes like Restorative and Roll, Tai Chi, Yoga for Cancer, Strength Over Cancer, and a Zumba-thon. In addition to learning more about the Hamsa Wellness Community education and support resources available, community partners will be on hand to share information about hereditary cancer risks, cancer rehabilitation, resources for financial support, genetic testing and counseling, and more. Attendees will be able to enjoy a complimentary massage and snacks while they enjoy a health-focused morning with The Hamsa Wellness Community.
Beyond Pink is open to members and non-members alike.
Beyond Pink T-Shirts: A limited number of event t-shirts are available for $20 each. To buy your t-shirt, stop by the front desk in Chesterfield or Creve Coeur. Shirts are available while supplies last!

Visit with the following organizations:

Clean/Healthy Living
Cancer Support Community
Missouri Baptist Breast HealthCare Center
Pink Ribbon Good
ReVital (Cancer Rehabilitation)
Roots Acupuncture and Healing
Siteman Cancer Center/Wash U
St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Awareness – SLOCA
The J’s Hamsa Wellness Community

Beyond Pink Schedule

Event
Time
Location
Description

Chair Massage
10:15am - 12:45pm
Lobby
Sign up for a FREE 5 minute slot with one of our professional masseuses. Must register at the event.

Zumba/High Low
10:30 - 11:45am
Gymnasium
A fusion of Latin and pop music, featuring aerobic interval training with fast and slow rhythms for a fun workout.

Strength Over Cancer
10:30 - 11:25am
Group Exercise Studio
Capacity: 25 Students
A specialized fitness program aimed at supporting cancer patients and survivors through strength training.

Restorative and Roll
10:30 - 11:25am
Mind/Body Studio
Capacity: 18 Students
Designed to release tension and pain by unwinding fascia and connective tissues through gentle movements.

Yoga for Cancer
11:45am - 12:40pm
Mind/Body Studio
Capacity: 18 Students
A gentle, restorative yoga methodology tailored to meet the needs of cancer patients and survivors.

T'ai Chi
11:45am - 12:40pm
Group Ex Studio
Capacity: 25 Students
Gentle, slow movements combined with deep breathing to enhance relaxation, balance, and overall well-being.

Wondering if you should speak to a genetic counselor?
If you say “yes” to any of the following questions, you may be at greater risk and should consult with a genetic counselor:

Were you or a family member diagnosed with breast, colorectal or endometrial cancer at 50 years of age or younger?
Were you or a family member diagnosed pancreatic, ovarian, fallopian tube, primary peritoneal, triple negative breast cancer or male breast cancer at any age?
Were you or a family member diagnosed with prostate cancer at age 55 or younger or metastatic prostate cancer?
Has the same family member been diagnosed with multiple cancers?
Have multiple family members been diagnosed with the same cancer?
Does any family member have a known gene mutation associated with hereditary cancer?
Are you of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with a family history of breast, ovarian or pancreatic cancer at any age?

2025 Supporters

The Staenberg Group
Lynne Kipnis & Steve Rothman
Lester Family
Merle Fox & Jeff Bikshorn
Palan Family
Isaacs Family
Kaminer Family
The Sidney & Bobby Guller Family Foundation
Robert and Grace Brod Family Foundation: Jessica & Andy Millner
Missouri Baptist Healthcare Foundation
Rhonda and Andy Oberman
Jennifer & Danny Soshnik
Michelle & Donn Luxx

Class Descriptions

Zumba/High Low: A fusion of Latin and pop music, featuring aerobic interval training with fast and slow rhythms for a fun workout.
Restorative and Roll: Designed to release tension and pain by unwinding fascia and connective tissues through gentle movements.
Yoga for Cancer: A gentle, restorative yoga methodology tailored to meet the needs of cancer patients and survivors.
Strength Over Cancer: A specialized fitness program aimed at supporting cancer patients and survivors through strength training.
Tai Chi: Gentle, slow movements combined with deep breathing to enhance relaxation, balance, and overall well-being.

What is the Hamsa Wellness Community?

The Hamsa Wellness Community (formerly known as Sharsharet Supports STL) is a cancer community program at the J and a community partner of the national nonprofit Sharsheret organization. The Hamsa Wellness Community educates individuals regarding hereditary cancer risks, especially women and men of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, who have an increased risk of carrying a hereditary cancer gene mutation. The Hamsa Wellness Community also supports those facing a cancer diagnosis – especially those with breast and ovarian cancer – anywhere along their journey.
In partnership with the J’s Fitness team, the Hamsa Wellness Community offers programs like Yoga for Cancer, Strength Over Cancer, and Oncology Massage led by oncology-trained instructors and therapists. The Hamsa Wellness Community welcomes the full spectrum of diversity and supports all who reach out. These programs are available to J members and the public.
The Hamsa Wellness Community is founded on five pillars: Connection, Hope, Educations, Strength, and Support. These pillars focus on the care of the whole person and provide those dealing with cancer diagnosis a community during what is often an extremely challenging time.
Contact
Debbi Braunstein, Hamsa Wellness Community Director
314.442.3266

Register Today

Nishmah Book Club: 'The World That We Knew' by Alice Hoffman
2025-10-28 18:00 | MO
Save the Date!
Women 18+.
Nishmah Book Club: The World That We Knew by Alice Hoffman – Hosted by Mary Murawski. Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Lee Yaron, Journalist/Author of '10/7: 100 Human Stories'
2025-10-29 19:00 - 20:30 | MO, United States
Winner of the 2024 National Jewish Book Award, 10/7: 100 Human Stories is a searing work of investigative journalism by Haaretz reporter Lee Yaron. Through over 100 firsthand accounts—from survivors, first responders, and bereaved families—Yaron documents the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.
Spanning Jewish, Arab, Bedouin, and foreign communities, 10/7 honors not only how people died, but how they lived. This portrait of grief, resilience, and reckoning offers an urgent lens into a nation—and region—forever changed.

Neighbors & Narratives: Israel-Lebanon Edition
2025-11-10 18:30 - 19:30 | MO
Learn the stories behind Israel’s relationships across the Middle East as we uncover the history and dynamics between Israel and its neighboring countries — one story at a time. This session: Israel & Lebanon.
Presented in partnership with the Jewish Agency for Israel.

Moms & Mental Health
2025-11-19 18:30 - 20:00 | Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School, 348 S. Mason Road, Creve Coeur, MO, 63141, United States
ADULT WOMEN 21+
Join Nishmah, the Jewish Community Relations Council, 2025 Momentum Israel participants, Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School, and special mental health experts for our first ever Moms & Mental Health gathering and parent education session. Moms & Mental Health is about moms as well as the mental health of family members. Some sessions are about motherhood while others are about identity as it pertains to the entire family unit.
6:30 pm CHECK-IN, NOSH, AND SCHMOOZE
6:45 pm KEYNOTE
Raising Resilient Kids: Recognizing and supporting the mental health needs of our children
Keynote speaker Dr. Lisa Ryan
7:30 pm BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Dori Scallet will kick off our monthly Mom’s support group in her session on motherhood and the supports we need to be our best selves and mothers.
Raquel Leverson will be hosting Nishmah’s regular Rosh Chodesh Well circle.
Rachel Bray will facilitate a session on Jewish identity in an interfaith context.
Dr. Lisa Ryan will lead an after-the-keynote Q&A Session.
End time is approximate.
FREE | REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Register for Moms and Mental Health

Ilene Joseph Salon Series: Memory Changes in Women
2025-12-08 19:30 - 21:00 | Private Home (registrants will receive address prior to the event), MO
Step into a space where voices matter and ideas spark connection. The Ilene Joseph Salon Series invites women to gather for meaningful, facilitated conversations on timely topics that impact our lives and our community.
These intimate discussions are hosted in the homes of Nishmah members and are designed to inspire, educate, and give Jewish women a place to connect. Attendance is always free, with donations to Nishmah welcome.
Salon Topic:
Memory Changes in Women: Normal Aging or Cause for Concern?
Featuring Dr. Roula al-Dahhak, this important and timely discussion will explore what’s typical, what’s not, and how to navigate changes with confidence.

Register to Attend
Registration is required. Participants will receive the location address prior to the event.

The Ilene Joseph Salon Series is part of Nishmah: The St. Louis Jewish Women’s Project and named for Ilene Joseph, z”l, one of Nishmah’s founders and a passionate supporter of the Salon Series.

Hanukkah at Garden Glow
2025-12-14 12:00 - 18:00 | Missouri Botanical Gardens, 4344 Shaw Blvd, St. Louis, MO, 63110, United States
Noon–4pm Daytime Activities | 4:30pm Garden Glow Begins
Join us for another great year celebrating Hanukkah with the Missouri Botanical Garden. Daytime activities are from 12-4pm and are free to attend in the Bayer Event Center. Listen to live music and visit our vendors!
At 4:30pm, Garden Glow tickets are available for $2 off for J Members when you use the J’s special Garden Glow link. Purchase them ahead of time to receive our special discount. Join friends and family and be sure to visit our J tables with gelt, sufganiot (jelly donuts), dreidels, and more! See if you can find our human-sized dreidel! Alex Rich will be playing live music outside as you enter the Garden. This one is a can’t-miss!

GET TICKETS See all Hanukkah 2025 Events

Hanukkah at Ballpark Village
2025-12-20 19:00 - 22:00 | Ballpark Village, 601 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63102, United States
Join us for the 2nd annual Hanukkah at Ballpark Village. Sports & Social St. Louis is hosting a Hanukkah pop-up party with free admission and themed drinks and menu items available for purchase. All are welcome.
No RSVP needed; just show up with your friends!
ADULTS 21+
See all Hanukkah 2025 Events

Rooted & Rising: Rosh Chodesh Women's Circle Sh'vat
2026-01-13 18:00 - 19:30 | MO
This sacred women’s circle is a pause in the winter—a moment to slow down, breathe deep, and reconnect with the parts of you growing beneath the surface.
In the Jewish month of Shvat, we honor Tu B’Shvat, the New Year of the Trees—a time when the sap begins to rise, even before the fruit is seen. Spiritually, it’s a reminder that your growth is sacred even when it’s quiet. Even when no one else sees it yet.
This circle includes:

Earth + water ritual for letting go of emotional depletion
Guided meditation to meet the Tree of Self
Journaling + reflection on what’s ready to bloom
Embodied movement practice to root and rise
Connection with soulful women on the path of becoming

You’ll leave feeling grounded, nourished, and deeply supported—from your roots to your crown.
RESERVATION REQUIRED | FREE
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Nishmah Presents WINGO
2026-01-22 17:30 - 21:00 | The J – Marilyn Fox Building (Main Entrance), 16801 Baxter Road, Chesterfield, MO, 63005, United States
Please note the updated start time, end time, and location.
Get ready for a night of laughter, bingo, and great company! WINGO is all about bringing women together for an evening of fun and connection. Play multiple rounds of bingo, win exciting prizes, and enjoy time with friends old and new. Whether you come solo and meet new friends or reserve a table for your favorite crew, you’re guaranteed a great time. Each reserved table includes one bottle of wine to share, and if you’d like dinner, snacks, or additional drinks, feel free to bring your own!
We’ll also have a raffle with fantastic prizes! Tickets are $7 each or 5 for $25, so don’t miss this additional chance to win.
WOMEN 21+ | $30 INDIVIDUAL| $300 TABLE
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Nishmah: The Jewish Women’s Project is a program of the J.
