During LGBTQ+ Pride Month, and throughout the year, Samost Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) is dedicated to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for members of the LGBTQ+ community. The agency has created two award-winning programs where each individual’s sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression can be embraced, affirmed, and celebrated.
The only group of its kind in southern New Jersey, LGBT Aging with Pride offers a welcoming atmosphere for older adults to share their experiences, build relationships, and discuss issues like discrimination and social isolation. After more than a year of virtual-only meetings, LGBT Aging with Pride will hold its June meeting in person, outside at the Katz, on Friday, June 11 at 1:00pm! To learn more or to RSVP, contact Reva Farenback-Brateman at 856-424-1333 ext. 1184 or rfbrateman@jfedsnj.org. LGBT Aging with Pride is sponsored by the Timothy Rice Estate and Elder Law Firm.
The monthly Project Rainbow groups provide support and social opportunities for tweens (grades 6-8) and teens (grades 9-12) who identify as LGBTQ+, along with their allies. Born out of the belief that everyone should have an opportunity to celebrate who they are, what makes them unique, and why they matter, Project Rainbow creates a supportive space where teens can explore their identities and discuss life’s challenges and triumphs. The final programs of the school year will be held via Zoom. The Teen group will meet on Wednesday, June 9 and the Tween group will meet on Wednesday, June 16. For more information or to RSVP, contact Gaby Marantz at gmarantz@jfedsnj.org. Project Rainbow is a collaboration with the Katz JCC, with grant funding by the Camden County Board of Commissioners.
In addition to JFCS programming, several local organizations are hosting events in celebration of Pride Month.
Collingswood Pride Night will be held on Wednesday, June 16 from 5pm to 8pm, outside the Scottish Rite. Collingswood is well-known as an inclusive community valuing each of its residents for who they are and what they add to the fabric of the Borough. For more information visit https://www.collingswood.com.
Haddon Township is hosting its first annual Pride Parade and festivities in celebration and support of its LGBTQIA+ community. The festivities begin on June 10 with a Pride Parade, followed by multiple events throughout the week to create connection, show support, and share resources. Learn more at https://www.htpride.com/.
The Cherry Hill Public Library is celebrating Pride with several events throughout the month. To learn more or register for virtual programs, visit https://www.chplnj.org/.
