Soups & Sweets, the culinary training program of Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS), found a temporary home at Adath Emanu-El in Mount Laurel while its permanent space in the Jonathan Sinay Building underwent extensive renovations throughout 2024. This partnership not only provided students with hands-on experience in the food industry but also helped cultivate a strong sense of community. Designed for individuals with diverse learning needs, Soups & Sweets equips students with both technical kitchen skills and essential life skills, all while fostering lasting friendships and a deep sense of belonging.
When Soups & Sweets relocated during the renovation, they were welcomed into the warm and supportive environment of Adath Emanu-El. “I’ve always known that Adath is a special place,” says Nancy Lewis, Soups & Sweets Program Manager and longtime congregant. “But after spending a year working there, I developed an even deeper appreciation for the warmth and compassion they showed our students. It allowed us to continue our mission, and I’m deeply grateful for that.”
Rabbi Amy Memis-Foler echoed this sentiment, noting how the students brought unexpected enrichment to the synagogue. “At first, we thought we were helping them, but in reality, they were helping us. Beyond the joy of their delicious treats, we saw their pride in their work and watched them grow over the course of the year.”
The impact of the program extended far beyond just baking. Executive Director Jennifer Gotliv observed how the students’ presence transformed the atmosphere of the building. “They truly became part of our family. Their enthusiasm, eagerness to learn, and kindness uplifted us all. And of course, we loved sampling their delicious treats along the way.”
The lessons learned and the community forged throughout this partnership will continue to shape the students’ futures. For Adath Emanu-El, the memories of this collaboration will forever exemplify the Jewish concept of mitzvah goreret mitzvah—one good deed leading to another.
