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 throughout 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 Etz Chaim Men’s Club of Marietta, GA was recently presented a GOLD FJMC Torch Award at the 2025 FJMC International Biennial Convention in Chicago for their community outreach program, “Giving Back to Our First Responders“. Etz Chaim Men’s Club Immediate Past President Bryan Coleman explains the program:
“As with most synagogues in this era fraught with uncertainly, we have a police presence during Shabbat services… and many other times when the synagogue is occupied. This outreach to our First Responder Community was our opportunity to engage those standing ready to safeguard our security and demonstrate our appreciation….with Kosher Brisket Chili! Our seemingly inexhaustible team of “Kitchen-teers” competed for the honor of being in on the preparation. Everyone wanted to be a part of the effort to express appreciation to our Police and Fire Departments for their ever-presence and -vigilance. Master Chefs with chili expertise far exceeded the numbers needed, ensuring an enjoyable cooking experience. The menu consisted of Brisket Chili and sour cream (Pareve, of course), Creamy Cole Slaw (albeit non-dairy), Cornbread, southern style (meaning spicy), Brownies with pecans (a Hank Needle spécialité) and Sweet Southern Iced Tea (de rigueur in Georgia). The sociable, enjoyable afternoon turned somber as we took the opportunity to preview a COMMEMORATIVE BRICK prepared for the Memorial Garden at our Congregation Etz Chaim to honor the memory of fallen First Responders; it reads: “In Memory of Those Who Sacrificed Their Lives in the Line of Duty”. Personalizing the relationship with our First Responders has brought a heightened appreciation and appreciation their service. Our (East) Cobb County is a relatively small community geographically, and it is not unusual to encounter a local police officer directing traffic at a community event or see a local firefighter at a fast-food restaurant. For those of us who participated in this event, these men and women are no longer just people who work at the Fire Station or the Police Precinct… they are our neighbors. As an extension of this meaningful program, we will have an official ‘unveiling’ and dedication ceremony at which the MEMORIAL BRICK commemorating the lives of our First Responders. More than ‘successful,’ the program is destined to become a regular event on our Men’s Club calendar.”
Kol HaKavod and Yasher Koach to the Etz Chaim Men’s Club for creating and sharing the details of their Torch Award winning “Giving Back to Our First Responders” program with other Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods. For more information about the Etz Chaim Men’s Club visit: https://www.etzchaim.net/get-involved/mens-club/ or email 2025/2027 Men’s Club President Mathew Nathan at: mensclub@etzchaim.net.
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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