On Sunday, September 14, the energy of young Jewish Atlanta was on full display as young professionals came together for Mitzvah Day 2025, a signature event of JF&CS.
This year’s gathering was especially meaningful, offering opportunities for volunteers not just to serve, but to connect. Holocaust survivors welcomed young professionals into their space at Café Europa — the first time the program has partnered with Mitzvah Day. Volunteers joined them for conversation, laughter, and activities that offered a glimpse into what Café Europa looks like throughout the year.
Meanwhile, clients from our Independent Living Program created art alongside the enthusiastic volunteers. Paintbrushes and colors became tools for connection, with stories and smiles shared as easily as strokes on the canvas.
“One of the most powerful parts of the day was seeing so many new faces step forward with enthusiasm,” reflected Sarah Bernstein, JF&CS Special Events and Young Professional Manager. “Their kindness and commitment not only brightened the day for our clients but also helped strengthen the bonds within our community. Seeing new volunteers step forward with such energy and passion gives me great hope for the future of young professional events and JF&CS involvement.”
Her words captured the spirit of the afternoon. In each project space, connections were taking shape: between volunteers and clients, between old friends and new, and between young adults united by the shared vision of building a stronger Jewish community.
The day closed with a lively Happy Hour, where the energy of service flowed seamlessly into laughter, conversation, and fun. Mitzvah Day 2025 showed how powerful it is when young professionals gather in the spirit of giving — and how those moments of connection ripple outward long after the day has ended.
If you missed this year’s Young Professional Mitzvah Day, opt in to stay connected with all of our upcoming YP events — and save the date for the biggest Young Professional celebration of the year: Havinagala, January 24th, 2026.