The Wayne YMCA, a branch of the Livingston-based Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, and the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey have strengthened their partnership, creating a new post at the YMCA to promote Jewish identity in the community.

Judy Weil, a 30-year Wayne resident and former executive director of the Summit Jewish Community Center for 12 years, was chosen from more than 50 applicants to become the Wayne YMCA’s director of Jewish Programs and Community Outreach.

“With Judy’s help, the Wayne YMCA can be a hub for community relations, as we strengthen connections with our neighbors,” Wayne YMCA Executive Director Justin Ihne said.

The Jewish Federation, a long-time partner with the Wayne Y and its predecessor, the Young Men’s and Young Women’s Hebrew Association, came up with the idea for the position and is funding it.

“Judy will help build and foster a positive Jewish identity through engagement, leading to Jewish continuity,” said Lisa Harris Glass, managing director of community planning and impact at the Jewish Federation.

Weil said she is eager to share her enthusiasm for her faith. “I want to demystify it, and make it more inclusive,” she said.

Weil is planning a Purim carnival at the Wayne Y on March 20, as well as a night when women—mothers, daughters, grandmothers, sisters, aunts and friends—can come together to bake challah.

“My religion has so many fun parts, and I’m looking forward to sharing the Jewish culture,” Weil said.

She also wants to attract people of other faiths. She’s planning a forum with the head of Vivekananda Vidyapith, an academy of Indian philosophy and culture, on the similarities between Judaism and Hinduism. She noted the likenesses in the religions’ marriage and mourning traditions, as well as food restrictions. “There are more similarities than differences,” she said.

For more information about Jewish programs at the Wayne Y, visit wayneymca.org or call (973)595-0100.

By Margaret McHugh