Jewish Young Professionals create family

By Maya Williams, JYP Coordinator

When I moved to Naples in the fall of 2021, I knew I wanted to immerse myself in a Jewish community as I had done in college. I knew that being far from my family and friends in the Midwest would be tough for me, especially when Jewish holidays came around — holidays that most of my peers here do not celebrate. But, about a year later, this past fall, when the High Holidays rolled around, I was not alone. I had my friends from Jewish Young Professionals — my new family, away from my family — to celebrate and observe our holidays with.

Maya, Vikki and Nicole

A group of us attended a meaningful Rosh Hashanah service and meal at Chabad of Naples, along with services at Temple Shalom. When Hanukkah came around, we gathered for a celebration as a group. It feels amazing to not be alone for my holidays — the Jewish holidays! My hope is that as we continue to grow, other young adults in the area are able to feel the warmth of our small but mighty community.

We, the young adults of the area, are the future of Jewish Naples. As we strive to increase and improve our programming, we would appreciate any support from members of the community. If you wish to sponsor a program — a learning event, social event, holiday celebration — we would appreciate your support. Donations can be made by contacting Reneé Bialek at rbialek@ jewishnaples.org. Be sure to mention Jewish Young Professionals.

Follow us on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/JYPNaples. And, if you know a young adult in their 20s-30s, please reach out to Maya at mayajw3@gmail.com to get involved!

Nicole, Vikki, Sarah, Maya, Dani, Brian, Jeff, Andrew and Jacob hit the mini-golf range.