Ithaca experienced its first community-wide Purim celebration on March 12, 2017. It was a joint organizational effort of IAUJC, Tikkun v'or and Temple Beth El, held at the Space at GreenStar. After months in the planning, the doors opened to crowds of celebrants, both young and old. All proceeds from admissions were distributed among three non-profit organizations - the Friendship Donation Network, the Women'a Opportunity Center and the American Jewish World Service. Friendship Donation Network was present at the carnival, helping attendees decorate and prepare bags of groceries for people in need. The groceries for these gift bags was donated by C.S.P. Management. Other supporter of the event included Avital Apiaries, Congregation Tikkun v’Or, Cornell Hillel, Elaan Greenfield Designs, Heidi Oros, Ithaca College Hillel, Ithaca Area United Jewish Community, Ithaca Bakery, Lifespan Therapies, Linz Real Estate, Marcia Zax DDS, Sunny Days, Temple Beth El, and Wegmans.
There were many wonderful volunteers including members of Chabad, Kol Haverim and the Cornell Middle Eastern Music Ensemble, who made the event a great success. Activities included Megillah readings, carnival games, face painting, belly dancing, a magician, a balloon artist, and a bounce house.
Attendees included people of different religions, and Jewish people from the different local communities. The goal of bringing people together in celebration was reached with great fun and joy!
