Two of the highlights of the FJMC International Biennial Convention are the presentation of FJMC Torch Awards to recognize Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods “that develop quality programming, build community and support the growth and development of their clubs” and the FJMC Club Program Fair, showcasing the programming efforts and creativity of Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods from across North America.
The FJMC Program Fair is an opportunity for Convention delegates to learn about outstanding, award winning programming initiatives and interact one-on-one with the FJMC club leaders who designed and championed those very programs. In the spirit of the Biennial FJMC Programming Fair, this post is part of a continuing “Spotlight On” series that will share information about creative, engaging, low-cost and highly effective programming ideas that can easily be easily replicated by any Florida Region Men’s Club or Brotherhood.
The Temple Aliyah Men’s Club of Woodland Hills, CA , now kown as the HaMakom Men’s Club, was awarded an FJMC Torch Award for outstanding programming at the 2025 FJMC International Biennial Convention in Chicago for their creative “Movember Hike” program. Former Temple Aliyah Men’s Club President Richard Kosoff explains the program:
“To promote Men’s Health we planned a hike, of easy-to-moderate difficulty, at a local park that leads into an open nature reserve. We tied it in with a fundraiser to support the Movember Foundation which funds research and awareness of Men’s Health. All participants were asked to make a donation to Movember and, in return, receive and wear (at least for a group picture) a mock mustachio, the trademark on Movember. At an appropriate spot, we took a break for a quick D’Var Torah and refreshments. This was included in emails sent to the Club mailing list for a few weeks prior to the event. Follow-up one-to-one emails phone calls to verify and/or encourage attendance helped increase success. We had 15 people, which included a couple of spouses, which we consider a success. We raised more than $100 toward supporting the Movember Foundation’s fund-raising campaign. A number of the participants were those who do not normally participate in Men’s Club events so we feel that this helped us draw more guys to become active in the club. All who cam seemed to enjoy the experience. This kind of activity helps promote the FJMC initiative to help men build and maintain healthy lifestyles. It also helped to support the Movember Foundation whose work makes a difference in awareness and research in Men’s Health issues. It is also a great activity to promote community.”
HaKavod and Yasher Koach to HaMakom Men’s Club President Richard Kosoff for creating and sharing the details of their FJMC Torch Award winning “Movember Hike” program with other Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods. For more information about the HaMakom Men’s Club visit: https://www.hamakomla.org/mens-club or email HaMakom Men’s Club 2025/2027 Co-Presidents Richard Kosoff at fosok61@gmail.com or Zygi Boxer.
This message is brought to you in solidarity by of the Florida Region of FJMC International (FJMC) . We serve the needs of affiliated Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods throughout the State of Florida. Learn more about the FJMC Florida Region and our growing network of Jewish Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods at: www.floridaregionfjmc.org and please visit & LIKE our Facebook Group at: www.facebook.com/FloridaRegionFJMC.
The FJMC is a confederation of over 200 Jewish Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods throughout the United States, Canada, Latin America, and beyond. Learn how YOUR Jewish Men’s Club or Brotherhood can affiliate with the FJMC at: https://fjmc.org/for-clubs/affiliating-with-the-fjmc/.
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