February 27, 2026 | 10 Adar 5786

On February 22, the community came together for JDAIM 2026 with a powerful and inspiring gathering, by screening a documentary about Itzhak Perlman, followed by a magnificent concert featuring violinist Mariya Usachev Bukhta and pianist Rachel Kreyner. The film offered a moving and meaningful reflection on Inclusion and accessibility. Through Perlman's life and career, it showed how talent flourishes when barriers are removed and when society chooses to focus on ability rather than limitation. As Perlman said, "I want people to remember me for what I can do, not what I can't." When we shift our focus to what each person can contribute and create truly barrier-free environments—just as Perlman performs seated—we strengthen and enrich our entire community by allowing every individual to shine brightly. The evening concluded with Beth Price presenting our Inclusion Award to recipient Andrea Scharfstein in recognition of her contribution to Jewish Calgary. View event photos.

The Paperny Family JCC is proud to be hosting an incredibly powerful and uplifting evening powered by Calgary Jewish Federation! We invite everyone to join us at the JCC on Wednesday, March 18 at 7pm for an inspiring concert with renowned Israeli singer and storyteller Gilad Segev, as he brings the North American Tour of Project Heroes to our community. Through moving music and deeply personal stories, Gilad redefines the Jewish narrative — shifting the focus from victimhood to heroism. It will be a celebration of courage, resilience, unity, and Jewish pride, reminding us of the strength that lives within our people and within each of us. Come be part of an evening that will move, connect, and inspire our entire community. Everyone is welcome! JCC Member: $36 or public: $45. Purchase your tickets online or contact the JCC Customer Service Desk at 403-253-8600 x0.

Looking for an easy and fun way to connect with other Jewish families? PJ Library® Get-Together Grants are open to all current PJ Library and PJ Our Way® subscribers, and make it simple to turn everyday moments into meaningful Jewish connections. Host a playdate, Shabbat dinner, park meet-up, holiday craft, or any casual get-together with at least two other Jewish families, and you can be reimbursed up to $100 USD for eligible expenses. Even better, families can now take advantage of this grant up to five times in 2026! Whether you're baking challah, meeting at the playground, or celebrating a Jewish holiday together, PJ Library Get-Together Grants help make gathering easier, more accessible, and more fun. 

Did You Know? On February 23, the Shalom Hartman Courageous Leadership cohort and Calgary Jewish Federation's Community Relations Committee brought together 23 Jewish community organizations and agencies, for a Jewish Calgary Town Hall. United by a shared commitment to strengthening our community, the energy in the room reflected the collective responsibility and care that define Jewish Calgary. The ideas and priorities shared will directly shape next steps and inform new models of collaboration for our community and the Strategic Planning Committee of CJF. 

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