Young Jewish Professionals

Who We Are

YJP is a peer-let network for young adults ages 25-45 who are curious about, or already engaged in, Jewish culture, values, and community. We believe in creating a welcoming, inclusive space - everyone is invited, regardless of level of observance, background, or familiarity with Jewish traditions.

What We Do

We organize a variety of social, cultural, educational, and service-oriented events:

• Social gatherings (dinners & happy hours) to forge friendships.
• Learning opportunities (Jewish culture workshops & speaker events).
• Cultural activities (films, celebrations of Jewish holidays, arts).
• Volunteer & service projects - giving back is a big part of what we do.

Why It Matters

• Belonging & Community: YJP offers a chance to build relationships with people who share Jewish identity, values, or curiosity - amidst the busyness of early/mid adulthood.
• Growth & Learning: Whether you're connecting back to your roots, exploring Jewish ideas, or simply looking for meaningful conversation, there's room to grow.
• Impact: By joining forces, YJP doesn't just enrich individual lives; the group helps make the JCA stronger, more vibrant, and more relevant to younger generations.

How to Get Involved

• Watch the JCA community calendar for YJP events.
• Reach out to the YJP coordinators to be added to the mailing list or to help plan.
• Bring your ideas: this is your community, so your input helps shape what we do.

Wise Ventures

Wise Ventures is the 55+ social group of the Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine, designed to bring together older adults in a warm, engaging, and inclusive environment. Whether you’re recently retired, semi-retired, or simply seeking ways to connect, learn, and enjoy this stage of life, Wise Ventures offers opportunities to thrive socially, intellectually, and culturally.

What We Do
Wise Ventures hosts a variety of programming, including:

• Coffee Talk: Meet-ups to converse, catch up, and connect.
• Cocktails & Conversation: Evening social events where people can relax, share stories, and engage in dialogue.
• Cultural & Educational Events: Workshops, presentations, and outings that reflect the interests of the group - arts, music, Jewish culture and values, history, speakers, etc.
• Community & Friendship Building: Creating space for people to make social connections, support one another, and remain engaged with the broader JCA community.

Why It Matters

• Social Engagement & Belonging: As people age, opportunities for connection become more valuable. Wise Ventures helps older adults maintain meaningful relationships and avoid isolation.
• Lifelong Learning: Staying mentally active through conversation and new experiences is a vital part of well-being.
• Intergenerational Community: By keeping older adults involved, the JCA strengthens the fabric of the larger Jewish community - passing on traditions, sharing stories, and sustaining continuity.
• Joy & Enrichment: These gatherings are not just about utility—they’re about enjoying life, celebrating identity, laughter, company, and curiosity.

How to Join / Participate

• Keep an eye on the JCA events calendar for Wise Ventures events like Coffee Talk or Cocktails & Conversation.
• Reach out to the JCA staff to be added to the Wise Ventures mailing list so you’ll hear about upcoming gatherings and programs.
• Bring your ideas and suggestions—this is a group for the people enrolled; your interests help shape what Wise Ventures offers.

Rimon

Rimon is a vibrant, welcoming community of women in the Portland, Maine, area who gather to connect, learn, celebrate, and support one another. Whether you’re deeply connected to Jewish life or exploring your Jewish identity, Rimon is a place to build friendships, enjoy meaningful cultural experiences, and engage in communal life.

What We Do
Rimon hosts activities that combine social, cultural, educational, and ritual elements.

• Communal events like the Great Big Maine Challah Bake, where participants gather to learn about and engage in the tradition of baking challah, share company, and enjoy hands-on experience.
• Workshops, speaker sessions, or gatherings that highlight Jewish heritage, ritual practice, arts, conversation, and shared learning.
• Events that encourage women and girls to participate — for instance, some programs are open to daughters or granddaughters.

Why It Matters

• Connection & Community: Rimon helps foster bonds among women who share a Jewish background, interests, or aspirations, providing companionship and support.
• Cultural Identity & Learning: Through its gatherings, Rimon offers ways to explore Jewish rituals, traditions, and culture in accessible, enriching settings.
• Empowerment & Inclusion: It’s a chance for women’s voices and perspectives to shape Jewish communal life—not just attending, but leading, creating, and sharing.

How to Join / Get Involved

• Watch for Rimon-led events in the JCA’s community calendar
• Follow us on Facebook to receive notices or a mailing list about Rimon’s upcoming activities.
• Bring ideas: Rimon thrives when its members contribute their own visions for events, learning, and creative programming.