Finchley Progressive Synagogue in London: “Experiencing Jewish Festivals and Shabbat: An Invitation to Discover”

NCEJ Grants Can Help Groups Offer Special Shabbat Programming that’s Educational, Engaging, and Accessible to Everyone

NCEJ provides grants for holiday how-to workshops and experiential programs that help interfaith families and individuals exploring Judaism learn about holiday traditions and rituals. We reimburse for marketing, program materials (including celebration kits), security, and staff support. For more details see our Holidays Page.

For over 45 years NCEJ has given grants for programs that educate, engage, and connect new people to Judaism – including interfaith families, people interested in conversion, Jewish-adjacent individuals, and others who want to explore becoming part of the Jewish community.

Showcasing the Joy of Shabbat

Temple Brith Achim: Once Upon a Frozen Shabbat, NCEJ credit

“Once Upon a Shabbat” – Temple Brith Achim, King of Prussia, PA

Cantor Tifani Coyot of Temple Brith Achim received an NCEJ grant for a year-long, quarterly Shabbat series designed to introduce interfaith families, as well as others, to the beauty and joy of Shabbat through pop-culture themed experiences. Themes include “Nemo’s Ocean Shabbat,” and “Lego Shabbat”. The primary audience includes those who attend the JCC preschool (located within the building), as well as the local community.
The program aims to create a welcoming and accessible entry point to Judaism, making Shabbat approachable and exciting for children and adults alike. A 35-40 minute service will weave the pop culture theme into traditional rituals. Children will actively participate in learning about Shabbat through songs and stories. They will be encouraged to dress up and participate in themed activities. A festive Shabbat dinner will follow the service, featuring themed crafts and activities.
The program is being promoted through a variety of channels, including digital marketing (targeted social media and email), and print marketing (flyers, a banner, and ads in the local paper).

Creating Connections Through Celebrating Shabbat

“Light Up Shabbat” – Syracuse Community Hebrew School

The “Light Up Shabbat” program sponsored by Syracuse Community Hebrew School (SCHS) will provide families with the tools they need to celebrate Shabbat regularly at home. Many of the students who attend the school come from interfaith households. The NCEJ grant SCHS received will be used for hands-on cooking classes, Shabbat dinners held at school, and Shabbat celebration kits sent home with students. The kits will contain items such as challah covers, candlesticks, candles, recipes, and resource packets (including the blessings and songs).

“This program is not about observance – it’s about inviting families to discover the joy and meaning of Shabbat on their own terms, together.” – Ora Jezer, Head of School

The goal is to make Shabbat accessible for all, regardless of families’ Judaic knowledge. The school hopes that this initiative will encourage families to sit down together on Friday night, and that at times several families will share a Shabbat meal, thereby building community and developing new traditions.

Connecting multi-faith and Jewish families in areas where there are no local synagogues or other Jewish institutions

“Tot Shabbat” – JEWISHcolorado

This pilot program is an opportunity for these families to experience a fun, meaningful Tot Shabbat celebration, while connecting to other families and Jewish life and community. JEWISHcolorado will be offering four one-hour Family Tot Shabbat experiences during the year, led by a Jewish music educator who will create and lead the services. Each family will receive a Shabbat kit with challah, juice, candles, and blessing sheets. One of the goals is to connect the families to JEWISHcolorado programming and the greater Jewish community. The program will be marketed through JEWISHcolorado’s communications sources and targeted emails to young families.

Check Out Our Holiday Program Profile Page

Celebrating and Connecting Newcomers to Jewish Life
Holiday Programming

Our grants can help you connect new people to Judaism and your organization.

PJ Library/JEWISHcolorado: Family Jewish holiday celebrations, a gathering at a local pumpkin patch for Sukkot

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Top photo – The Michael Levin Base

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Finchley Progressive Synagogue in London: “Experiencing Jewish Festivals and Shabbat: An Invitation to Discover”

Holidays can be a hook bringing people into Judaism

NCEJ provides grants for holiday how-to workshops and hands-on programs that help interfaith/intercultural families, Jewish-adjacent individuals, and spiritual seekers learn about the meaning of Jewish holidays and holiday traditions. Our grants cover marketing, program materials, security, some staff support, and related expenses for both single events and multi-session programs, traditional classes and experiential learning.

For over 45 years NCEJ has given grants for programs that educate, engage, and connect new people to Judaism – including interfaith families, people interested in conversion, Jewish-adjacent individuals, and others who want to explore becoming part of the Jewish community.

Hillel Ukraine’s Passover Project focuses on the themes of freedom and resilience

Photo: Hillel International, Across Ukraine, Hillel Offers Refuge Amid War and Loss

“Pesach Project” – Hillel CASE, Ukraine Region

The Pesach Project, designed for university students and young adults with little or no Jewish background, will focus on the traditions and customs of Passover, and its contemporary relevance. Hillel plans on holding Seders in multiple cities throughout the region. A key component of the program will be a handout, developed by Hillel educators and distributed to every participant.

“The program introduces Passover traditions, including the Seder, while emphasizing universal themes of freedom, displacement, resilience, and hope that resonate deeply with students living through conflict and uncertainty.”
– Tetiana Smotkin, Program Coordinator

In 2025, Hillel held the program in 5 cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odessa. Students prepared traditional foods and re-enacted parts of the Seder. This not only made learning fun but also allowed participants to connect with the customs on a personal level. These students were then empowered to lead Pesach Seders for their peers—many of whom had little or no prior familiarity with Jewish history or traditions.

“We want to express our deepest gratitude to NCEJ for supporting this initiative– in such difficult dark times for Ukraine we managed to bring together the light of hope and support.”
– Tetiana Smotkin, Program Coordinator

Participants attending the Tallinn, Estonia JCC’s Passover program will learn how to celebrate Pesach at home

“Family Passover Experience: Your Own Seder Journey” – Jewish Community of Estonia | Tallinn JCC

The Tallinn JCC will be holding a 1-session Passover program “Family Passover Experience: Your Own Seder Journey” as part of their “Jewish at Home: Family Journeys into Tradition” programming. It is designed primarily for families with limited Jewish background, interfaith households, and people who have never celebrated Passover before. The organizers will guide attendees through the story, symbols, and structure of the Seder.

The experience will include:

• A family-friendly retelling of the Exodus story, with reflections on the themes of freedom, identity, and resilience-especially relevant in today’s world
• An explanation of the Seder plate, haggadah highlights, and key rituals
• Interactive stations where families can make charoset, learn the Four Questions, practice the blessings, and sample symbolic foods
• A creative hands-on activity: assembling a home Passover kit with a mini haggadah, symbolic items, and a simple Seder guide
• A closing family discussion circle, inviting participants to reflect on how they can make Passover meaningful in their homes

The goal of this program is to make Jewish holidays accessible and welcoming to new audiences through engaging activities, take-home resources, and inviting conversations.

A London synagogue’s Passover program emphasized empathy towards strangers because “we were once strangers in the land of Egypt”

“You shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the feelings of the stranger, having yourselves been strangers in the land of Egypt.” (Exodus 23:9)

“Experiencing Jewish Festivals and Shabbat: An Invitation to Discover” – Finchley Progressive Synagogue, London

Finchley Progressive Synagogue received a grant in 2025 for a series of holiday programs that aimed to empower participants to feel confident celebrating at home. Over the course of a month participants learned about the story and traditions of Passover. Students in the congregation’s Conversion/Delving into Judaism class cooked and served the Seder meal, as a way of “leaning in” to the rituals. Interfaith families and Jewish-adjacent and interested individuals were encouraged to attend, and were invited to play a part in the evening events.

“We are proud that our community is inclusive in every sense and we take pride in the diversity of our membership and our efforts to welcome people whose journeys to Judaism may be unique, challenging, winding, or choppy. Whatever their path has been to reach us we are proud to welcome them.” – Finchley Progressive Synagogue

Check Out Our Holiday Program Profile Page

Celebrating and Connecting Newcomers to Jewish Life
Holiday Programming

Our grants can help you connect new people to Judaism and your organization.

Sign Up For Our Grants Letter Today

Keep abreast of new funding opportunities by signing up for our newsletter: sign up for our newsletter.

Chag Sameach!

Top photo – Finchley Progressive Synagogue in London: Children singing the Ma Nishtana, reading from the Haggadah

The post NCEJ Funds Holiday Programs Worldwide – Providing a Place Where All Are Welcome appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

NCEJ gives grants to synagogues and other Jewish organizations sponsoring programs that attract more new people to Judaism from all walks of life and backgrounds. We provide grants for holiday how-to workshops and experiential programs that help interfaith families and individuals exploring Judaism learn about holiday traditions. Many of our grantees have used the Jewish holidays as a “hook” to connect new people to Judaism. Learn more on our Holiday Page.

We fund marketing, program materials, security, and some staff support. Program materials include arts and crafts supplies, books, handouts, and related items. We also reimburse for the costs of holiday celebration kits, which can enrich participants’ educational experiences and strengthen connections to the sponsoring organizations. (See our Program Kit Page.)

To learn more about NCEJ and the type of programs we fund, see our What We Fund page.

NCEJ funds programs worldwide to engage, educate, and connect interfaith couples, people interested in conversion, and others who want to explore becoming part of the Jewish community.

Recently Awarded Grants

Rosh Hoshanah Blessing Seder Booklet – Funded in part by NCEJ

“Rosh Hoshanah Blessing Seder” – Congregation Or Ahavah, FL

Jewish Renewal Congregation Or Ahavah held a Rosh Hoshanah Blessing Seder in September. The Seder was preceded by participants sharing something about each of the hostages that remained in Gaza at that time. In addition to chicken and brisket, participants feasted on pomegranates, stuffed dates, beets, carrots, and chocolate fish.

View Rosh Hoshanah Blessing Seder Booklet (PDF)

“Our past experience tells us that nothing attracts people more than food and joyous music. Our strategy is to connect everything we do to teaching about Judaism and how what we do is repeatable in their homes and their lives.”
– Rabbi Debrah Shenefelt

Tu B’Shvat activity – “Forest in a jar” terrarium

“ABCs of Judaism” Holiday programming – Hillel Poland

This program was a series of pre-holiday educational meetings designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of key Jewish holidays. The program aimed to ensure that participants not only learned about the holidays intellectually but also connected emotionally and engaged practically with the tradition. Holidays and celebrations included Shabbat, Tu B’Shvat, Purim, Pesach and Shavuot. Programming combined historical and textual learning with hands-on activities, such as challah baking for Shabbat.

“The NCEJ grant was instrumental in establishing a program that provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of key Jewish holidays through the ‘3H’ philosophy – Head, Hand, Heart.”– Magda Dorosz, Director

NEW! Jewish Outreach Podcast

The purpose of The New Jew Podcast is to encourage non-Jews to consider becoming Jews and to challenge the Jewish community to rethink about reaching out to non-Jews to convert to Judaism. The podcast is a series of interviews; it is a celebration of faith, resilience, and community.

Listen to the Podcast: Episode 04: Welcoming the Curious – The Case for Jewish Outreach, with Jonathan Argaman, The New Jew Podcast, (recorded: Nov 3, 2025).

In this thought-provoking episode of The New Jew, Rabbi Jon Cutler and Jonathan Argaman sit down with Ellen Gerecht, head of the National Center to Encourage Judaism (NCEJ), to explore a bold and often overlooked strategy for Jewish continuity: actively inviting non-Jews to explore Judaism. Ellen shares the inspiring origin story of NCEJ, founded by her parents over 40 years ago with a simple but radical idea—market Judaism like any meaningful product, highlighting its benefits and welcoming spiritual seekers. Today, NCEJ funds programs across denominations and geographies, from intro-to-Judaism classes to interfaith holiday workshops, helping Jewish organizations reach new audiences.

Check Out Our Resource Pages

Fostering a Welcoming & Educational Pathway to Judaism
Introduction to Jewish Traditions

Celebrating and Connecting Newcomers to Jewish Life
Holiday Programming

Connecting Interfaith Families to Judaism
Interfaith/Intercultural Engagement

Our grants can help you connect new people to Judaism and your organization.

Sign Up For Our Grants Letter Today

Keep abreast of new funding opportunities by signing up for our newsletter: sign up for our newsletter.

Top photo – Rosh Hoshanah Blessing Seder – Congregation Or Ahavah, FL.

The post NCEJ is Increasing Funding for Interfaith Engagement Programs in 2026 appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

There’s still time to apply for funding for Passover/Shavuot programs that engage interfaith families, new Jews by Choice, and individuals considering conversion.

NCEJ Helps Fund an Inclusive Outreach Seder

This past year Temple Shalom of Manitoba received an unprecedented number of inquiries from people who wanted to learn more about Judaism. In April the congregation will be providing a Seder designed for people attending a Passover Seder for the first time. This will include new Jews by Choice and people who are exploring the possibility of becoming Jewish. The Seder will include uplifting music, contemporary readings, traditional and newer symbolic foods, games and a catered meal. The message will be that there is room for everyone at the table.

NCEJ Gives Grant for a Special Shavuot Program: “Choosing Judaism.”

Sutton Place Synagogue in New York City will be hosting an erev Shavuot program this May focused on the concept of choosing Judaism. The format of the event will be a facilitated panel of people in the congregation who have chosen Judaism, followed by a discussion. One of the goals of the panel is to provide inspiration and encouragement for audience members who might be considering or in the process of conversion. One of the discussion questions will be “what does it mean to choose Judaism in today’s world?” The evening will conclude with a dairy dinner, which will create an opportunity to build community.

Have a question about the type of programs we might fund? We encourage people to reach out to us here.

To be notified of the latest grant updates sign up for our grant news.

Happy Purim!

Purim take home kit – The Jewish Enrichment Center of Chicago

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“Jewish Makerspace” – Temple B’nai Torah, Bellevue, WA

Jewish Makerspace is a hands-on opportunity for families to learn about and begin to experience Jewish holidays. It will be open once a month from 10 am- 3 pm, focusing on one holiday each time. The goal of each gathering is for individuals to learn how to celebrate an upcoming Jewish holiday and also walk away with handmade ritual items. The program is geared towards learners of all backgrounds.

Marketing: The program will be promoted on an online/print Seattle magazine for families, and on Instagram and Facebook. In addition, flyers will be distributed locally and postcards will be sent out to the synagogue’s full mailing list.

For more information contact Rabbi Molly Weisel.

“Jewish Trails” – Congregation Shma Koleinu, Bellaire, TX

Congregation Shma Koleinu in Houston will be offering “Jewish Trails,” a monthly program starting in Fall 2023, designed to empower interfaith/intercultural/low-non-practicing parents to raise Jewish children.

Sara Chen, program coordinator, says “It is geared towards families that feel on the outside of Judaism but don’t know how to begin to teach/celebrate the Jewish life cycle with their young children.”

Each session will have an art project done by parents and children together. Here are some examples:

• “Shabbat Shiners” and Shabbat to go kit – Shabbat candleholders made with little flashlights
• Blessing Trail Markers
• DIY Hanukkiah at a local ceramic studio.

Marketing: The program will be marketed on social media, YouTube, and flyers/mailings to local schools/preschools.
Program Materials: The NCEJ grant will help CSK provide arts and crafts supplies and for special programs such as a bookbinding class.

For more information contact Sahel Chen, Program Coordinator.

Ideas and Inspiration for the Holidays

Here are some examples of programs we have funded in the past:

Rosh Hoshanah

“Apple Jews” – Hillel Minsk

During the program the organizers introduced the participants to the history and traditions of Rosh Hoshanah. Attendees also learned about other events offered by Hillel Minsk.

“During the year you can learn Jewish traditions, culture, and history, and at the same time fall in love, find friends, go on a trip —whatever you can imagine.”
– Alena Kuliounich, Director

Tu b’Sh’vat

Tu b’Shvat Terrariums – The JCC of Greater Pittsburgh

The Tu b’Shvat Celebration reminded families of their connection to the earth and in particular to the land of Israel. The terrariums reminded participants of the importance of our natural resources and of the Jewish people’s connection to Eretz Yisrael.

“Much like Jewish tradition teaches that we should plant trees not for ourselves, but for the generations to come, Tu b’Shvat Terrariums will plant the seeds of Judaism for the next generation.”
– Rabbi Ron Symon

Purim

Purim Celebration – Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism

The program included a Megillah reading, festive feast, costume competition, and a Mishloach Manot (Purim basket) parcel delivery. The registered participants were Russian-speaking interfaith individuals.

Passover

Online Passover Activities – Joint Distribution Committee, Latvia

Activities included a culinary class on making desserts from matzah, a model family seder, a session of Pesach songs, a Pesach “board game” for younger children, and an online Zoom quest called “Escaping Egypt” for young adults.

Top photo courtesy of Hillel Minsk.

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The National Center to Encourage Judaism has funding available now for programming that helps people who are new to Judaism learn how to celebrate the holidays at home. NCEJ is currently funding a variety of virtual programs for interfaith families, people in the process of conversion, and others who are exploring becoming part of the Jewish community. For more details visit our Grant Process page. Applications are accepted anytime. Applications received by the end of February will be reviewed within 25 days (instead of 45 days).

Marketing graphic sample courtesy of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh

Looking for ideas? Want to share yours?

For ideas on how to promote a program and widen the audience, see our new Marketing Gallery. You can also send us your own marketing examples to feature on our website.

Our Virtual Programming page is packed with innovative ways to engage people online, such as supplementing screen time with activity kits.

Have an idea but not sure it meets our guidelines? Please reach out to us at 301-802-4254, or contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director.

Please share this grant-giving notice with your colleagues, or pass their names on to us. We accept applications throughout the year.

Chag Sameach!

Top photo courtesy of Congregation Beth Israel Vancouver: BI Neighbourhoods – Tu b’shevat Take Home kit

The post Funding Available Now for Programs that Help Newcomers to Judaism Celebrate Holidays at Home appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

In light of recent events, NCEJ is now giving grants for online programming geared to interfaith families, people beginning their Jewish journey, and those who may be interested in converting to Judaism or becoming part of the Jewish community. Programs must have an educational component. For details about NCEJ’s eligibility guidelines visit our website. If you have questions about what might be reimbursed contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director, or call 301-802-4254.

Pivoting to Online Programming: Examples from Around the World

Israel Reform: Passover 101 Workshop Held Entirely Online

Israel Reform received a grant for a 3-session Passover program for interfaith families from the former Soviet Union. They learned about the traditions and practices of Pesach, how to prepare for the holiday, and how to lead a Seder. This year for the first time the model Seder was held virtually instead of in person. The program was promoted via social media, other digital media platforms, and phone calls to the target audience in the local area.

The first session covered the history and background of Passover and included “handouts” of materials in Russian. The second session covered the rituals of the Seder, including how to read the haggadah and which foods to prepare. Participants could download a Reform haggadah and a DIY kit of materials for making a Seder plate and other items. The last session was a model Seder, held on the first night of Passover. Families could put into practice what they had learned and children who wanted could ask the Four Questions.

Contact Tamar Roig, Partnership Development, IMPJ, for more information.

Hillel Case (Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan) “Let My People Know” Passover Program

Hillel CASE (Central Asia and Southeastern Europe) recently received a grant for a new multi-session program about Passover to take place in 5 cities throughout the Ukraine. The organizers expect approximately 500 students to participate. The goal is to teach them about Judaism through the lens of the Passover story. The program was promoted through social media, their website, and other channels.

The first class (held online) covered the philosophy of Passover and how to hold a Seder at home. Valeria Kholodova, director of Hillel Case, says:

“Thank you so much for the opportunity to hold Passover Seder for hundreds of Jewish students at this difficult time. Right now, when I write you a letter, the students of Hillel are participants in the Passover TedX and thanks to this knowledge they will be able to hold the seders at home. And bring the Passover holiday to thousands of Jews.”

– Valeria Kholodova, Program director, International Jewish Student Organization HILLEL Case in Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Georgia, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan

Hillel at Virginia Tech “Judaism 101″ Finishes Online

The Hokie Hillel’s 5-session course ran from early January through mid-March. It was advertised through table-top cards and posters in local restaurants, coffee shops and markets, as well as through Facebook, Instagram and email blasts. Word of mouth was most effective, however.

The organizers quickly switched the last class to an online format when circumstances changed. One participant, who is in the process of converting to Judaism, said about the course:

“Judaism 101 was a great place to gather with other students and community members to learn, share, and ask questions about Judaism. It was nice to do that in a place where I wasn’t the only one who felt like they didn’t know anything.”

Sue Kurtz, the executive director of Virginia Tech’s Hillel, looks forward to doing more such programming in the future. She stated that “the funding from the National Center to Encourage Judaism has made us even more of a community center for Jewish learning here in Blacksburg. It is something we have always wanted to do.” For more information, contact Sue Kurtz, Executive Director, Hillel at Virginia Tech.

Bet Chaverim, Washington “Introduction to the Jewish Experience” Goes Online Only

Bet Chaverim received a grant for an “Introduction to the Jewish Experience” program. Rabbi James Mirel reports that he began the class by Zoom and had a dozen students participating. For more information, contact Rabbi James Mirel.

“In these difficult times, I wanted to thank you and the NCEJ. Jewish study will go on thanks to your efforts and generosity.” – Rabbi James Mirel

Temple Beth El of Huntington, NY “Jewish Holidays 101–Celebrate Interfaith” program goes virtual for final session

The 6-session program (Fall 2019-Spring 2020) was promoted in the local paper prior to each meeting, and flyers were distributed at the JCC and other community outlets. Each session consisted of an educational component followed by discussion about how to integrate Jewish traditions into an interfaith household. The goal was to help interfaith families embrace celebrating Jewish holidays together and provide a forum for conversation.

The final meeting, via Zoom, was attended by over 30 people. Participants learned how to observe Passover, including practical advice about (celebrating Pesach during a pandemic).

The facilitators were praised for their non-judgmental approach, and for teaching about the Jewish holidays in an easy-to-understand, enjoyable manner. The congregation’s Partnership Liaison, Lisa Tricomi, says:

“The grant conveyed our message of inclusivity, and it also allowed us to get our name out in the community to let others know that we are a progressive synagogue that is open to anyone interested in Judaism.” 

For details contact Lisa Tricomi, Partnership Liaison.

Resources for Connecting Digitally:

• Longtime Virtual Rabbi Offers Advice on “Doing Jewish” Online – Video by Rabbi Juan Mejía, who has been teaching online for a decade.
• A Recording of Rabbi Juan Mejía’s Conversation About Online Judaism on 3/15/20. Thanks to jewishLIVE and Oshman Family JCC.
• Virtual Community and Informative Resources – powered by The Jewish Federations of North America

Grant Updates

NCEJ renewal grant to Union of Reform Judaism includes increased digital media advertising for congregational Intro and Taste of Judaism® classes

URJ will give out marketing grants to 12-15 congregations, with preference to collaborative programs, congregations offering both Taste of Judaism® and Intro, and congregations offering a program for the first time. URJ will also implement digital media advertising for up to 50 congregational programs.

American Jewish University receives grant for branded marketing materials

The grant will fund the development of branded, customizable, professionally designed marketing collateral (both physical and digital) as well as a media kit, to be used to expand marketing for the Miller program and enable affiliates to widen their audience and increase attendance for Introduction to Judaism classes. The overall goal is to demonstrate that the Miller program “welcomes newcomers to Judaism with warmth.”

Funding Focus

In the last few years, NCEJ has expanded the scope of programs it funds and given grants  to a wider variety of groups across the Jewish nonprofit spectrum. Explore our site for details on the type of programs we fund. Have a question about whether we might cover a program you are considering? Contact us

Although our funding guidelines have broadened over the years, our mission has remained the same:

To Welcome New People to Judaism

NCEJ WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU!

We welcome your inquiries as we navigate this new environment. Please reach out to us at 301-802-4254, or contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director. Applications are accepted throughout the year. For details about our grant process, visit our Grant Process page. Let’s all stay safe but stay connected.

Featured photo above: Rabbi Juan Mejía is the Southwest regional director at Be’chol Lashon, a group for diverse global Jews. From the video on YouTube “Diverse Jewish Voices: Rabbi Juan Mejía.” Rabbi Mejía has been teaching online for a decade.

The post NEW: NCEJ Giving Grants for Online Programming for People Exploring Judaism appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

The Jewish Enrichment Center in Chicago, an independent Jewish nonprofit, used an NCEJ grant to promote their Passover Book Fair and DIY Seder. The first part of the program introduced participants to formats and materials they could use to lead a personalized Seder. The Center also set up a display of over 30 haggadot. The event was publicized on Facebook and Instagram, as well as in the local Jewish federation’s online portal.

Tips for anyone considering offering a similar program:

• Advertising works! This was the first time the Center had a chance to market their program to a wider audience. Facebook and the federation portal were especially effective tools for reaching new people.
• Have handouts available, not just links to sources. For example, participants requested photos/artwork illustrating freedom to use at their Seders.
• Allow time for free-flowing discussion. Participants enjoyed sharing ideas about incorporating what they learned in their own Seders.

“This workshop gave me lots of ideas about how I can lead my Seder.”

– DIY Seder Participant

Contact Rabbi Rebecca Milder, Director, 773-234-9403 for more information.

Pathways to Judaism

Jewish Discovery Institute, in Newton, MA, offers the Conservative Movement’s “Pathways to Judaism” class at different suburban Boston locations for people who are considering conversion. An NCEJ grant helped pay for a flyer that publicized its programs. There were 50 students in this year’s class.

“The Pathways program has… allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of our respective backgrounds and the traditions we each grew up with. Today, we can confidently say that based on the content of this program… now have a clear and united vision for our future together.”

– Pathways Program Participant

What Worked? The colorful brochure was an effective complement to Facebook and advertising on JewishBoston.com.

Contact Rabbi Braham David, Director, Jewish Discovery Institute or call 617-219-9775 for more information about this program.

Introduction to Judaism Classes

Germantown Jewish Centre Philadelphia. An NCEJ grant enabled the Germantown Jewish Centre to expand marketing for its Introduction to Judaism class, using the Conservative Movement’s Goodblatt curriculum. For them, having one or two teachers worked better than a rotating set of speakers.

• Tip #1: Broaden the advertising and start outreach earlier.
• Tip #2: Create more intentional opportunities to plug the folks in the course into other synagogue programs and initiatives.

“For an aspiring convert such as myself, the Introduction to Judaism class has been an awesome and fulfilling experience.”

– Introduction to Judaism Participant

Upcoming Grant Program Spotlight: Holiday 101

Congregation Beth El, in Huntington, NY will be offering a program called “Holiday 101 – Celebrating Interfaith“, an educational 6 session program that will inform, teach and create discussion around several Jewish holidays and traditions. The program will facilitate conversations for interfaith households and help families embrace celebrating Jewish holidays together. Each session/class will be composed of learning about the holiday; as well as incorporate discussion of how to respectfully integrate those traditions into an interfaith household.

Contact Lisa Triacomin, Partnership Liaison at 631-421-5835 ext. 206 for more information.

How the JCC of Greater Pittsburgh used “Family Field Trips” to Connect Interfaith Families with Judaism

For the second year NCEJ gave a grant to the JCC of Greater Pittsburgh to enable it to expand marketing for its Family Holiday camps, geared primarily to intermarried families. There were 3 one-day family camps held in the fall, winter and spring of 2018-19: Shabbat on the Ark, Latke Bake and Take, and Shavuout. Each session consisted of numerous hands-on activities plus Jewish learning. The aim was to encourage the families to build a Jewish home and also engage with Jewish life in Pittsburgh.

The Model

• Each camp was advertised in the general (not Jewish) press (print and electronic).
• Each camp included family-centered fun experiential learning about a Jewish holiday.
• Each camp showed families how they could embrace Judaism.
• Jewish content was emphasized.

Program Summaries

Shabbat on the Ark immersed families with young children in the story of Noach and allowed them to connect with one another while experiencing a family-friendly Torah service. Families went on a boat ride, much like Noah boarded the ark. Most of the activities were animal-related, such as building animal toys out of paper towel tubes.

Hanukkah Latke Bake and Take took place at the JCC. Families prepared the latkes, played dreidel, and enjoyed potato latkes and sufganyiot. For safety reasons families were given the raw materials in reclosable bags to cook at home. Before leaving they all gathered together for music, singing and candle lighting.

The Shavuot at an Environmental Center camp provided an opportunity for families to learn about the meaning of a less well-known holiday, through Shavuot-themed PJ library books, station-based activities, and questions that related the receiving of the Ten Commandments to modern day rules.

Recent Grants

• Comunitat Jueva de Barcelona Bet Shalom, Barcelona
• Kehilat Birkat Shalom Israel
• Finchley Progressive Synagogue, London
• Jewish Learning Lab, Vancouver, Canada
• Sylvan YM-YWHA, Montreal
• Temple of Aaron, MN
• Temple Beth El, NY
• Congregation Ner Tamid, NV
• Temple Adat Elohim, CA

Articles of Interest

1. Syncing our Words and Actions to be a Welcoming Community
2. Serving Interfaith Families: Current Realities and Opportunities in Conservative Synagogues
3. My Very First Shabbat: Looking Back
4. Why My Introduction to Judaism Online Class Was So Valuable
5. Brandeis University Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies: Life Stages and the Needs of Interfaith Couples, Beyond Welcoming: Engaging Intermarried Couples in Jewish Life

Have Ideas for a Program that Meshes with NCEJ’s Mission?

If you offer programs geared towards interfaith families and others who do not identify as Jewish, NCEJ might be able to help you widen your audience and connect more people to Judaism. For more details, visit our grant page, or contact Ellen Gerecht to set up a time for conversation.

The post NCEJ Grants Support a Wide Range of Programs appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

Family Fun at PJ Simchas Event, Raleigh-Cary, NC

Cities receiving subgrants included Buffalo, Indianapolis, Tampa, Chattanooga, Albany, Charleston, and Raleigh/Cary.

Here are some tips from them for anyone else considering a similar outreach effort:

• The “connector” model was a more effective way of reaching families than other methods. Federations relied on individuals with backgrounds that were similar to the prospective audience to recruit participants. The personal approach took more time than other approaches but resulted in higher attendance.
• Discussion groups offer an informal opportunity to talk about Jewish beliefs and values. The grant encouraged creative ways of reaching people who do not identify as Jewish and who previously had minimal interaction with the local Jewish community. For example, Tampa offered art and activities for small children while the parents conversed and Charleston offered monthly playgroups and holiday get-togethers.
• There is a market for introduction to Judaism classes, even in communities that have not previously offered them. Babysitting made it easier for families with children to attend, and collaboration with clergy of different denominations provided a more well-rounded experience for participants. Portland, Maine’s class “Welcome to Judaism” included trips to area synagogues.
• Discussions with people who are intermarried and active in Jewish life shows participants they can find a home in Judaism.
• Concrete education accompanied by hands-on-activities helps interfaith families build Jewish homes that work for them. In Orange County, NY a monthly federation initiative introduced families to welcoming ceremonies for newborns and other life-cycle rituals, along with details on celebrating Shabbat and other holidays. It also provided a place to talk through challenging issues that may be faced by families where one partner is not Jewish, such as “How can the non-Jewish family be educated and included in these practices?”
• People are receptive to learning about Judaism in a small group setting. In several cities the non-Jewish partner showed up for programs more often than anticipated, because they felt welcome. Many participants increased their engagement with communal life as a result of these initiatives, including becoming involved with synagogues, enrolling in Jewish preschools, and attending JCC holiday celebrations. They appreciated the opportunity to raise questions and have substantive conversations in a comfortable environment.

In a recent report, JFNA reflected:

“We are grateful to the National Center to Encourage Judaism for being our partner in this program. The funding helped us provide appealing venues, creative programs and enticing advertisements. Participants reflected how grateful they were to engage in meaningful Jewish programming that invited their families to be with us as a family in low-barrier and creative settings”

How the Pittsburgh JCC used “Field Trips” for Families to create an “on-ramp” to Judaism

For the second year NCEJ gave a grant to the JCCPGH to enable it to expand marketing for a series of 1-day  “Family Holiday Camps”, geared primarily to intermarried families. This year the focus was on Shabbat, Chanukah, and Shavuot.

Each session consisted of numerous hands-on activities plus Jewish learning. The aim was to encourage the families to embrace Jewish living at home and also engage with Jewish life in Pittsburgh. Feedback from program participants highlighted that families appreciated the opportunity to spend time together in a relaxed atmosphere while also being able to connect with other families and the larger community.

Program Example: “Shabbat on the Ark”

Shabbat on the Ark, held in the fall, immersed families with young children in the story of parashat Noach. Families boarded the Gateway Clipper for a morning cruise, much like Noah boarded the ark, and experienced a family-friendly Torah service. Connecting to the story, most of the activities were animal-related, such as building animal toys out of paper towel tubes.

The Jewish message was: Torah stories can be relevant in our 21st century life and Torah should be read in public settings with fun, joy and purpose.

Have Ideas for a Program that Meshes with NCEJ’s Mission?

If you offer programs geared towards interfaith families and others who do not identify as Jewish, NCEJ might be able to help you widen your audience and connect more people to Judaism. For more details, visit our grant page, or contact Ellen Gerecht to set up a time for conversation.

Featured photos: from the JCC Family Holiday Camps in Pittsburgh.

The post How an NCEJ Grant Can Help You Reach Interfaith Families appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

New International Grantees

We recently gave a grant to Project Kesher to help fund its “Global Jewish Women Celebration” in Russian-speaking countries. The program includes updating resources on the holidays and reaching out to Jewish women in Belarus, Ukraine, and neighboring countries.

In addition, we just funded a “Delving into Judaism” course at Finchley Progressive Synagogue in London. As part of the course the “delvers” will hear about the breadth of Jewish life at the synagogue, and have the chance to connect with active members.

Our newest international grantee is Bet Shalom, the Progressive Jewish Community of Barcelona. Our funding will enable them to expand their marketing and develop customized booklets for their Taste of Judaism course.

Looking for Funding for Programs Located Outside of the US?

If you operate internationally and offer programs for those with Jewish roots, or for people interested in conversion, tell us what you’re doing and how you think NCEJ can help you expand your audience. Give us a call or send us an email, contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director or call 301-802-4254.

New National and Local Grantees

SooJi Min-Maranda, Executive Director of ALEPH

The ALEPH Alliance for Jewish Renewal will be using an NCEJ grant to give out subgrants to groups in their network for programs geared to interfaith families and others who are interested in exploring what it means to be Jewish. Funds will be used primarily for marketing.

Mount Zion Temple, a new grantee in St Paul, MN, received 2 grants: one for a 3-session course entitled “Building a Jewish Home”, and another for a 15-week class called “Taste of Honey: An Introduction to Judaism”.

The Springfield, MA JCC received a grant for a monthly “Ask-a-Rabbi” booth. The booth will pop up in a public location for 2-3 hours, using a set-up similar to a “Peanuts” booth. The rabbis who staff the booth will vary in their approach to Jewish life in order to provide different perspectives, and the location will change so as to reach a diverse population.

Holiday programming can help you connect interfaith families to Judaism

Here are some programs we’ve recently supported:

Program: “5 Senses of Judaism”

5 Senses of Judaism is a multi-session program for families with very young children that focuses on 1 holiday each session. Each session includes 5 different activity stations. This child-led program allows families to explore Judaism in an experiential setting and learn about Jewish traditions and customs. —Temple of Aaron, St Paul, MN. Jorie Bernhardt, Director of Youth & Family Programming.

Program: “J Celebrates”

J-Celebrates is a series of experiential programs that engage and educate families about Judaism. A Family Passover Seder, hosted before the holiday, offers families the opportunity to learn how to host their own Seder. The goal of the program is to foster a strong sense of Jewish identity, and to facilitate, encourage and support a family’s Jewish journey. The objective is to create a pathway for families to be able to continue celebrations at home. —Westside JCC, Los Angeles. Erin Goldstrom, Development Director.

Program: “Unpacking Passover: Creating and Leading Your Own Passover Seder”

This is a three-part series of workshops about how to create and lead a Passover Seder. The program focuses on using Passover as a doorway into Jewish practice by helping participants customize the Seder, select from the wide variety of hagaddot available, etc., in order to make it their own. Participants will be provided tools, books, support, and encouragement to lead Seders. —Beth Shalom v’Emeth Reform Temple (B’ShERT), Brooklyn, NY. Faye Guskin, Trustee.

NCEJ is now accepting applications for activities starting Fall 2019

NCEJ funds advertising and other expenses for traditional classes such as Judaism 101 as well as less structured programs such as discussion groups, holiday workshops, and other events designed to attract people who are interested in learning more about Judaism.

For details visit our website or contact us: Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director or call 301-802-4254.

Want to Learn More?

To learn more about NCEJ’s activities and what we fund, click here to download our new flyer.

Photo above right, featured in Project Kesher – 30th Anniversary Announcement. Learn more at projectkesher.org.

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