As we begin the New Year, we reflect on the past but look toward the future – how can we make a difference? The Mandel JCC Lunch Plus Program is a warm and caring place, whether it’s serving meals or just helping out with a bingo game. With our community's support of the Campaign for Jewish Needs, programs like Lunch Plus can help care for our most vulnerable, as we aspire to leave no one behind.

Find out how Maxine Brand of Lyndhurst is making an IMPACT! by volunteering.

Find out how Laura Salkin of Shaker Heights is making an IMPACT! by volunteering.

Do you remember that year before entering high school? It’s daunting, especially if you feel alone, confused, and unsure of where the next four years will take you. Developmentally, eighth grade students are exploring issues of personal identity and discovering their unique interests, attributes and skills.

I’m a 23-year-old Clevelander; I grew up in Shaker Heights. My mom is from Israel, my dad is from Akron. Judaism has always been important to us, and I love being a part of Jewish Cleveland.

Volunteers are needed for the Annual Fall Cemetery Cleanup hosted by the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Jewish Volunteer Network and the Commission on Cemetery Preservation (COCP).

In 1926, the Hebrew Cultural Garden was dedicated as part of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens. Nearly 100 years later, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland proudly supports and manages this historic garden and maintains its landscape. “This is all thanks to the generosity of many people in our community," said Donna Yanowitz, Chair of Federation's Hebrew Cultural Garden committee. “We all care about maintaining such an important landmark in the city of Cleveland.”

IMPACT! Volunteers: Check out these winter volunteer opportunities just for you.

The Cleveland Chesed Center opened in March 2016 in Cleveland Heights to help our local community in need. In the past year, the Chesed Center has provided 1,370 individuals (750 children and 620 adults) with basic necessities including kosher food, personal care items, cleaning supplies, clothing, and furniture thanks to the efforts of Jewish Cleveland and the Jewish Federation of Cleveland.

The Jewish Federation of Cleveland, in partnership with Gesher Cleveland and the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland, is holding a free legal clinic on August 27 from 9:30 – 11:30 am at Green Road Synagogue (2437 South Green Road, Beachwood).