The UJC Pearl Society recently hosted its annual social action party, bringing together women from across the community for an evening of mitzvah and merriment. This year's event, dubbed the "Pearl Birthday Bash," focused on assembling birthday kits for THRIVE Peninsula, a local non-profit organization that supports families in need.

Members of the Pearl Society, along with women from throughout the community, generously donated cake mixes, icing, sprinkles, candles, party plates, balloons and decorations. Working together, the ladies assembled an impressive 87 complete birthday kits that will bring joy to children and families served by THRIVE Peninsula.

"I love the year-end themed party when we gather to put together or collect items for that year's social cause; it's so satisfying," said Janice Rockwell, who joined Pearl in 2023.

After completing their mitzvah project, the Pearl Society members celebrated their accomplishment with hilarious party games and enjoyed cake and ice cream.

Sara Traster, Pearl Society Director, expressed her enthusiasm: "The social action party is truly the highlight of our year. The overwhelming support from our community of women is inspiring, and there's something magical about coming together to make a difference. We're fulfilling our mission of tikkun olam (repairing the world) while creating joyful memories together."

The Pearl Society, which began in 2018, hosts a social action party each spring, benefitting a local non-profit organization as part of their commitment to tzedakah (charitable giving) and gemilut chasadim (acts of loving kindness).

In addition to the yearly social action party, what makes the UJC Pearl Society unique is its incorporation of a giving circle component. Each year, the members meet to discuss and select various organizations to receive their collective tzedakah: two local non-profit organizations, two national, and two international causes. The giving circle approach embodies the Jewish principle that collective action magnifies individual impact.

Tova Warren, an original member of the group, reflected on her experience: "Being a part of Pearl Society is really rewarding and allows me to give back in a Jewish way to meaningful organizations."

This year, the Pearl Society has grown to include 31 Pearls – women committed to making a difference through Jewish values and community action.

For those interested in learning more about the Pearl Society or joining this meaningful group of women dedicated to spreading good throughout the world, please contact Sara Traster at straster@ujcvp.org.