By Lisa Plotkin

Mix 22 families, 40 adults, 40 children, and excellent volunteers with tie dye, finger paint, Rainbow Road, popsicles, and a swimming pool, and what do you get?  PJ Library’s ColorSplash! 

The Weinstein JCC’s Camp Hilbert provided the perfect environment on Sunday, July 27: the shaded Israel Culture Pavilion for messy color fun and the refreshing, sparkling pools for a splash.

PJ Families were welcomed by Charles Tucker, Camp Hilbert Director, our terrific host and community partner. 

Following a short walk through the woods, hands and shirts became colorful as PJ families crafted unique tie-dye masterpieces, painted with cars on “Rainbow Road” followed by a carwash, painted with unusual tools like unraveled shower squeegees, and reverse-painted on bubble wrap. 

Generously donated golf balls provided another sensory painting experience in recycled boxes.  Some of us even had a minute to peruse PJ Library books on the side.  

Infants, grandparents, and all ages in between participated, and the photos are colorful proof of the joy.  While the number of registrants matched the triple digit feel of the sweltering July morning, no complaints were heard over the din of painting, socializing, and t-shirt dying.  And of course, “The popsicles totally hit the spot,” according to PJ Library Parent Emily Federmann.

PJ Library parent volunteer Sheri Rodman and her daughter “had a blast!  It was such a joy to celebrate with old friends and make new ones.  Huge thanks to the Weinstein JCC for hosting us — what an unforgettable day!”

“We’re so thankful there are great events where young Jewish families can get together!  Can’t wait for the next one,” said parent Amy Whitelaw.

Keep an eye on the PJ Library RVA newsletter, Jewish Community Federation of Richmond emails, and our PJ Library RVA page for updates on what’s coming next.  PJ Families with children ages 0-8 are welcome to join us on Aug. 15 to Beat the Heat with Books! 

Learn more and register here.  

As PJ Library Parent Kelly Crockett. reminds us, “There is something for everyone at PJ Library events, and we always enjoy the meet ups.”  We hope to see you!

Reach out to Lisa at PJLibrary@JewishRichmond.org with any questions.

Also see another PJ Library article, "PJ Library Families Enjoy Gathering for Social Engagement" in the Federation News Section. 

And see a variety of more PJ Library photos in the Photo Gallery on this site