Susan Adler took on the role of executive director at Boston Jewish Film in January, and she’s excited to continue the positive work of the organization. “I’m from Brookline originally, so it’s great to be home and to be working in the community,” says Adler.
Adler comes to the organization with a substantial resume of nonprofit experience, including almost five years as the director of corporate relations at Cradles to Crayons. She plans to use her experience to streamline workflow, expand the organization’s network, and, of course, continue raising funds for the cause. “It’s very rewarding to work in nonprofit,” says Adler. “At the end of the day you know that you’re making a difference; you’re advancing a mission. I’ve got a nice full toolbox, and I’m looking forward to bringing some new ideas and energy to continue our terrific programming.”
Boston Jewish Film, formerly the Boston Jewish Film Festival, has been operating in Brookline and Newton for 30 years. They’re known for its yearly Boston Jewish Film Festival, which screens an impressive roster of independent films, accompanied by director talks, panels, and premiere events. Adler says the organization will be working on bulking up their year-round programming. In February they started that effort by hosting the first-ever Israeli Film Festival in Boston.
In March they will be hosting the ReelAbilities festival in Brookline and Newton, including a screening of “Unstoppable” at the Coolidge Corner Theater on March 31. Tickets to all the events are free. “ReelAbilities Film Festival strives for inclusion of all people and is dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories, and expressions of people with different of abilities from a variety of communities,” says Adler. Similar to their other festivals, Boston Jewish Film will host panel discussions, talkbacks, and community partnership events in tandem with ReelAbilities.
ReelAbilities also speaks to a crucial goal of Adler’s, which is to broaden the communities that Boston Jewish Film reaches. The BJF programming isn’t just for people of Jewish descent; it’s for all populations. Alder and the BJF team will be increasing their outreach to continue bringing diverse crowds to their events.
Adler is passionate about the Brookline community and about the cultural experiences Boston Jewish Film provides. “We’re the only place where people can get these kind of premiere, exclusive, independent films that promote Jewish culture,” says Adler. “We’re offering something that you’re not going to find anywhere else.”
