At the Levine JCC, we offer members a variety of community service opportunities, inspired by the value of compassion (Rachmanus). Join us in making a meaningful impact and strengthening our community through purposeful social action.
Sign up for the monthly Social Action at the J newsletter to hear about new and ongoing opportunities.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
*ABRAHAMS TENT:
The Levine JCC, Temple Beth El, and Temple Israel collaborate with Queens University of Charlotte to provide shelter and meals during the winter months in collaboration with Roof Above. On cold nights, individuals experiencing homelessness receive a warm place to sleep, dinner, breakfast, a bag lunch, goody bag, and winter essentials like coats, hats, and gloves when needed. Volunteers will help provide food, set-up and clean-up, and sponsor overnight security. Contact Patty Torcellini at [email protected] for more information.
Winter 2026 Dates:
January 10-11
January 24-25
January 31- February 1
February 21-22
March 21-22
Jewish SERVICE LEARNING PROJECTS:
Social Action at the J is implementing Jewish Service Learning in conjunction with various supply drives. This approach to service includes four key elements: issue area education, hands-on service, reflection, and a Jewish lens.
October 18, 2026--Chanukah treats for JWB
Butterfly project:
In 2008, the Charlotte Jewish community pledged to take part in The Butterfly Project, an initiative co-founded in 2006 in San Diego, California, by educator Jan Landau and artist Cheryl Rattner Price. The Butterfly Project serves as a call to action through education, art, and remembrance, using the lessons of the Holocaust to raise awareness about the dangers of hatred and bigotry while fostering empathy and social responsibility. Participants paint ceramic butterflies that are displayed as symbols of resilience and hope, with the global goal of creating 1.5 million butterflies—one for each child who perished in the Holocaust—and to honor the survivors.
*SHALOM GREEN:
Shalom Green is a volunteer-led initiative dedicated to promoting Jewish environmental values and taking meaningful action to preserve and protect Creation. Focused on sustainability, the group works to REDUCE the carbon footprint of Shalom Park facilities, MAINTAIN the Shalom Park Community Garden—including monthly community workdays—and educate the community through programs - including an annual environmental film night. Learn more at shalomgreenclt.org or email [email protected].
Community Garden Workdays 2025 – 9-11am – Shalom Park Community Garden:
March 15, April 19, May 17, June 19, August 9, September 6, October 18, November 15
*JCRI:
The Jewish Community Refugee Initiative (JCRI) is a lay-led effort to educate the Charlotte Jewish community about refugee issues and inspire meaningful volunteer engagement. Many refugees have fled violence and persecution. Volunteers offer stability, support, and connection during their resettlement journey. While these individuals are not Jewish, welcoming the stranger is a core Jewish value.
JCRI offers opportunities for volunteering, donating, learning, and advocacy for individuals and families.
Email Amy at [email protected] for more info.
CAMP SOAR:
Camp SOAR (Special Olympics Athletic Retreat) is a free day camp for children and adults with special needs. Camp SOAR provides a fun and memorable experience for both its campers and its volunteers.
Volunteers must be rising 9th graders or older and make a commitment to volunteer for a complete session.
For more information, please contact Stephanie Garner at [email protected]
Volunteer opportunities will be available for the 2026 retreat.
Levine JCc Kids Triathlon:
This inspiring annual event raises funds for pediatric rehabilitative services at Levine Children’s Hospital, the Adaptive Sports and Adventures Program, and adaptive and special needs programming at the Levine JCC. Children ages 5–14 swim, bike, and run for a cause—helping raise over $923,000 through corporate sponsorships and participant fundraising.
Volunteers must be at least 14 years old. Volunteers between the ages of 10 and 14 must be accompanied by a parent/adult.
May 17th, 2026- details coming soon.
Supply Drives:
Throughout the year, we organize supply drives—gathering items such as books, school supplies, shoes, art materials, and period products. These initiatives provide a convenient and compassionate (rachmanus) way for our community to come together in support of those in need and make a meaningful difference.
SPONSORSHIPS:
- The 18th Annual Sam Strause LJCC Invitational Golf Tournament benefiting the Levine JCC OASIS Program.
- David Silverman Pickleball Tournament
- Charlotte Jewish Film Festival
- Levine JCC Kids Triathlon.
OTHER IDEAS:
*Joint Social Action programs sponsored by various community partners.
Questions, PLEASE CONTACT:
Emily Russell, Social Action Coordinator
704.944.6833 or [email protected]