For more than a century, Camden County Hadassah has brought Jewish women together through friendship, philanthropy and a shared commitment to making a difference both locally and around the world.
Founded in 1925, the chapter continues to build connections among women throughout South Jersey while supporting Hadassah’s mission of healing, advocacy and service.
“Hadassah is a way for Jewish women to connect beyond the synagogue walls and still support Israel and each other,” said Raquela Group Programming Vice President Deena Freedman. “We are a lively group of women who welcome meeting new people and becoming lifelong friends.”
Camden County Hadassah includes four groups — Raquela, Herzl, Tikvah and Anne Frank — that cater to women at different stages of life. Raquela is geared toward working women, while Herzl and Anne Frank have many retired members. Tikvah primarily serves women living at Lions Gate in Voorhees.
Despite those distinctions, members are welcome to participate in events hosted by any of the groups.
For Freedman, Hadassah is also a family tradition. She is a third-generation member, following in the footsteps of her mother, who remains active in a Pennsylvania chapter, and her grandmother, whom she affectionately calls her “Bubby.”
Throughout the year, members gather for activities that combine socializing, education and fundraising. Events include crocheting, bracelet making, bread making and luncheons, along with monthly opportunities to learn more about Hadassah’s work.
One of the chapter’s signature gatherings is its annual fall luncheon, which welcomes members back for another year of programming following Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.
This year’s luncheon will feature a speaker sharing her experiences growing up in an Orthodox Jewish household. Held on a Sunday, the event provides an opportunity for women from all four groups to come together.
Attendees will also collect bras for I Support the Girls, an organization that distributes bras, underwear and menstrual hygiene products to women and others experiencing homelessness, poverty or difficult circumstances.
Community service remains central to the chapter’s efforts.
Locally, members support the Betsy and Peter Fischer Food Pantry, collect school supplies each September and organize holiday gift donations in December. They also participate in advocacy rallies organized by National Hadassah.
Fundraising supports Hadassah’s broader initiatives, including hospitals and health-care programs in Israel. Proceeds from local events are directed to the national organization, which determines how funds are allocated among its programs.
The chapter’s largest annual fundraiser is its holiday gift-wrapping initiative at the Cherry Hill Mall, where members volunteer their time to support the organization.
As Camden County Hadassah moves beyond its 100th anniversary, Freedman hopes the chapter will continue attracting new generations of women who value service, friendship and their Jewish heritage.
Whether attending a luncheon, volunteering at a fundraiser or simply meeting new friends, members have opportunities to make meaningful connections while contributing to causes larger than themselves.
And for those interested in joining, the message is simple: New members are always welcome.
