
One of the highlights of the FJMC International Biennial Convention is 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 members who designed and championed those very programs.
Of the many programs and initiatives on display at the 2025 FJMC Convention Program Fair, one of the most engaging, lowest cost and easy to replicate Men’s Club programs showcased was “Men’s Club Pickleball” created by the Anshe Emet Men’s Club of Chicago, Illinois. Anshe Emet Men’s Club President Alan Mintz explains how the program works:
“Three pickleball courts are set up in the synagogue gym every month, usually the evening of the first Wednesday of the month. Each court can accommodate four players, so if more than twelve players show up, then players rotate in and out between games. Each session has a Men’s Club board member present to serve as Captain for the event. All equipment needed to play is provided, and no prior experience is necessary. Beginners are provided with appropriate training as needed. This event has been very enjoyable and beneficial for promoting health and fitness, typically with 10-12 people showing up each month. The event is free, but Men’s Club has made Men’s Club membership a requirement to participate. If nonmembers which to participate, they may bring their annual dues on the evening of the event and join Men’s Club at that time. Our Club has obtained about 6 members as a result. The event has become so popular that Sisterhood asked to be included. This was approved by our Men’s Club Board, and Sisterhood members have joined us for the last three months, also with the same membership requirements. At last count Sisterhood also has gained three new members since participating. This program has proven to be successful in a variety of ways – promoting good health, attracting new members, and providing a fun and informal activity for members to get to know each other better. The participants tend to become regulars, and for many of them, it is a significant point of attachment to the synagogue.”
Kol HaKavod and Yasher Koach to the Anshe Emet Men’s Club for creating and sharing the details of their successful “Men’s Club Pickleball” program with other Men’s Clubs and Brotherhoods. For more information about the Anshe Emet “Men’s Club Pickleball program, please email mensclub@ansheemet.org.
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/.