If you’re Jewish, single and over 40, two new groups offer opportunities to make friends and just maybe meet that someone special. According to the founders of both groups, it’s absolutely coincidental that they started up around the same time – one in the Valley and one in Tucson. But if the growing interest in them is any indication, they are clearly filling a niche.
Bob Golden started Jewish Singles of the Valley in February. He jokingly describes himself as the only Jew in Buckeye. “People are very appreciative that I’ve started this. When I do something, I want to do it right,” says Bob.
Events have included dinner/theater events (such as “Becoming Dr. Ruth,” “Of Mice and Men” and “Equal Opportunity Offenders”), happy hours, dinner/concert events, weeknight dinners, a “Pseudo Seder” for Passover and Sunday brunch. Word is spread by email, although Bob would like to find the funding to enroll the group on Meetup.com. Attendance has been around 30-40 people. JSoV does not charge dues. To cover expenses, Bob holds a 50/50 raffle at each event. For more information, contact Bob at singles@centurylink.net.
Jill Klein launched Tucson Jewish Singles Over 40 in March. “There was nothing available in Tucson for the middle ages. There were young people’s groups and there were over 65, but nothing for ages 40 to 65,” says Jill.
The Tucson group meets on the 4th Sunday of each month for potluck or dinner at a restaurant. Additional weekend activities have included outings to a comedy club and mystery dinner theater. Jill hopes to hold two or more events a month if interest continues. The group has a page on Meetup.com at meetup.com/Tucson-Jewish-Singles-over-40-Meetup or you can reach Jill at tjsover40@gmail.com.
If, by chance, you meet your beshert – the one you were destined for – through one of these groups, remember that you heard about it first through Arizona Jewish Life – and don’t forget to invite us to the wedding (or at least send pictures).
