Our groups:

Kesher (Formerly called the Empty Nesters) 

Kesher offers mature adults, many of whom have free time during daylight hours, the opportunity to socialize with others in the same situation.   We gather to explore a variety of topics, from engaging with guest speakers like Rabbi Stone on Mussar, sharing our recent favorite books, delving into the Jewish film festival, reminiscing about past High Holidays, discussing Medicare supplements, and even enjoying films and reading short plays with Jewish themes. Singles as well as couples are warmly invited. Interested? Contact Carol Benedick.

YAD (Young Adult Division)

YAD provides an opportunity for those in their 20s and 30s to connect with each other at Beth Shalom over Jewish content and learning. Interested? Contact our program coordinator. 

Food and Friends 5785

An annual CBS program with over 100 participants, Food and Friends consists of five monthly potluck meetings. Most groups meet for dinner, some meet for brunch, or some choose to meet for a mix of brunch and dinner times. Meetings are hosted in a rotating fashion at participants’ homes. Participants study using provided texts, as a foundation for conversation while sharing a meal. Groups are formed with a goal of individuals and families getting to know other congregants better and building bonds across neighborhoods within our CBS community. Since getting to know other Beth Shalom members is an important part of the program, participation is limited to Beth Shalom members (with the exception of the young adult  group).  More information and registration.

Endless Opportunities

EO is is made possible by the Stroum Jewish Community Center, and is supported by these sponsors: Congregation Beth Shalom, Congregation Kol Ami, Jewish Family Service, Kline Galland, Temple Beth Am, Temple B’nai Torah and Temple De Hirsch Sinai.

 Visit  Endless Opportunities for additional information.

Upcoming Opportunities 

Seder Plate Paint and Schmooze
Wed, April 9 , 11:00 a.m. at SJCC, Mercer Island
Nosh, schmooze, and paint a Seder plate to enjoy at your Passover table. We’ll provide all the art supplies and fire the plates.  Cost: $50
Register now.

The Gift of Life: A Jewish Perspective on Organ Donation
Tue, Apr 22 | 10:30 a.m.
Temple De Hirsch Sinai – Bellevue - 3850 156th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA 98006
Dr. Charles Rosen, Professor Emeritus of Transplant Surgery at the Mayo Clinic, will provide a brief overview of organ donation and transplantation, explore the Jewish perspective on both living and deceased donation, and lead a discussion to address personal opinions, dispel myths, and answer your questions. Presented in person and online.
Register now.

Emergency Preparedness
Tues May 13 • 11 am • @ SJCC + Online
Disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, and being ready makes a difference. On Tuesday, May 13, Mercer Island Emergency Management will be on site for an emergency preparedness and basic disaster skills presentation.

Join us to learn essential information and tools to prepare for emergencies. Discover local hazards, learn practical steps for emergency preparedness, and get tips on building emergency kits. Resources and actionable advice will help you start – or continue- your preparedness journey.

Participate in person or online via Zoom. Select option during registration.  

Mish Mash of Comedy
Sun May 18 • 2-4 pm at SJCC, Mercer Island
Oy vey, that’s funny! Join Endless Opportunities for an afternoon of jokes, funny games, and belly laughs. Have a talent for comedy? Let us know and we might just make you part of the show! Register now.