In a region home to more than half a million people, reports of isolation and loneliness continue to surface – across all ages and backgrounds. Jewish Long Beach is determined to change this narrative through a new initiative called Jborhood LBC. The goal is to spark meaningful connections and build micro-communities that foster belonging, friendship, and shared purpose.
“People are looking for authentic connection that grows from their real-life experiences,” said Jewish Long Beach’s Chief Community Impact Officer Amy Lakin. “They want to find common ground with others —whether that’s through shared life stages, like becoming a new parent or being new to this area, or through hobbies, passions, and values.”
Jborhood LBC is now forming and seeking Community Connectors – local leaders who will organize gatherings for their unique groups.
“These groups might meet to walk on the beach, go to open mic nights, mingle at happy hour, or learn a new language — you name it! We can’t wait to see how people choose to come together,” said Lakin. “And if you don’t see a group that fits, we want to hear from you – tell us what kind of connections you’re looking for.”
The initial response has been positive. Jewish Long Beach––known as the central convener of Jewish life across Long Beach and West Orange County––has heard from interested “Community Connectors” who expressed enthusiasm for meeting others around shared interests such as arts and cultural activities, connecting families with school-aged children, multifaith and multicultural families, singles groups, gardening, and more.
Applications to become a Community Connector are open now through the website. Visit JewishLongBeach.org to learn more about these part-time paid opportunities and see how to join or help lead a Jborhood LBC group.
Jewish Long Beach serves the Jewish and broader communities through strategic grant-making, development of emerging leaders, advocacy, and management of the community’s philanthropic funds. The Alpert Jewish Community Center, part of Jewish Long Beach and the focal point of the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Jewish Long Beach Campus, seeks to inspire community by improving lives, building bridges of understanding and inclusion.