D’var in the Bar

When I first moved to Rhode Island six months ago, I wondered how meeting people worked in the real world. Sure, I have my coworkers whom I enjoy working with, but how will I meet people my age in the area?

Life has a funny way of working out difficulties. As I started my new life in Rhode Island, (401)j also started its new life. (401)j is a community without borders, where young people (in their 20s, 30s, and 40s) are able to grow, connect, learn and form lasting friendships. There are “Clusters” of peer-led groups of Jewish young adults who create community through the pursuit of a common interest. Clusters are overseen by (401)j, but are organized, coordinated and led by a community member. Members can choose a Cluster they’d like to participate in or create their own.

In the past few months, I’ve met a diverse group of young Jewish professionals who, as I am, are interested in meeting others their age. As I learned what (401)j Clusters were, I know that I not only wanted to take part, but also to create one. During the past few months, Rabbi Barry Dolinger and I have been working together to create D’var in the Bar, a collaborative conversation on contemporary Torah topics. Every six or so weeks, D’var in the Bar will meet – each time featuring a different speaker and topic. This is an opportunity to explore Jewish learning in a casual atmosphere.

But D’var in the Bar is more than that. Giving is an important component of our learning. Each time we meet, we will be giving back to our community by asking people to bring clothing, a non-perishable food item, or money that will go to a specific charity.

Interested? The first D’var in the Bar will take place on Wednesday, January 22, at 6:30 p.m. at Doherty’s East Ave Irish Pub in Pawtucket. Rabbi Dolinger will lead our first discussion. We will be exploring “The Forgotten New Year of the Trees.” Learn about the religious and secular resolutions to live responsibly and give back.

Whether you are new to the area or have been a Rhody resident for a “wicked” long time, join the conversation!

Elanah Chassen (echassen@jewishallianceri.org) is the education and planning associate at the Jewish Alliance.