Shtetl 2.0™ is part of a growing network of Villages in Northwest Philly, all dedicated to helping older adults age in place with dignity, connection, and mutual support.
What makes us unique is our grounding in Jewish values and community life. We welcome everyone—no matter your level of Jewish knowledge or practice—and create programs that follow the rhythm of the Jewish calendar, from Shabbat dinners to Passover gatherings.
Communal meals will follow Jewish food traditions excluding meat, shellfish and non-kosher fish, and our Jewish and secular cultural offerings will highlight local creativity. We also draw on centuries of Jewish wisdom about aging, resilience, celebration, and mourning.
In the spirit of Jewish social activism, we’ll work together to make NW Philly a better place to grow older—advocating for affordable, accessible housing and planning ahead for the needs of our most vulnerable elders.
Members of other Villages are warmly welcome. We believe in collaboration, not competition, and look forward to sharing programs and strengthening our wider community.
Beyond practical support—transportation, home repairs, pet care—we aim to help members embrace later life with purpose, drawing on lived experience, creativity, and resilience.
We will encourage one another to challenge internalized ageism, imagine new possibilities, and use our time and talents to contribute to the critical issues of our day.
- Adapted from Rabbi Zoe Klein Miles
Shtetl 2.0™ : NWPhilly Jews & Friends Aging in Community
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