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 fund programs that help individuals and families celebrate holidays, build a Jewish home, and connect with others with similar backgrounds and experiences.

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.

Our grants cover marketing, program materials, security, and related expenses for both single events and multi-session programs, traditional classes and experiential learning. For more details see our Grant Process page. For more details on our funding guidelines see our What We Fund page.

Chanukah Boxes of Warmth – The Beri Foundation, Ukraine

Recently Awarded Grants

“Introduction to Judaism” – Temple Beth El, Jersey City, NJ

Temple Beth El in Jersey City, NJ sponsors a 20-session Introduction to Judaism class, using the Union for Reform Judaism curriculum. It includes 2 dinners and invitations to numerous social, communal, and religious events. Students are encouraged to craft their own practices and perspectives. Adding to the intimacy of the group, participants occasionally meet in people’s homes, in addition to the synagogue.

“Because of this program, Temple Beth-El now has many members and member families who have gone through the program and are now active members. Many have converted and there is a social cadre of young people who call Judaism and our Temple home.”– Rabbi Leana Moritt

For more information contact Rabbi Morritt.

“Judaism Behind the Scenes” – Temple B’nai Torah, Bellevue, WA

Temple B’nai Torah is offering a 10-session holiday program, “Judaism Behind the Scenes,” designed for families that are new to Judaism, but open to everyone. It is a monthly gathering to help participants experience the foods, songs, and rituals of upcoming holidays. Families will cook/bake food related to the upcoming holiday; and then, while eating the meal, they will learn about the meaning of the holiday. Each gathering will take place 3-4 weeks before the actual holiday so that participants can use the skills/ information learned to be able to celebrate the holiday at home with family and friends.

“Our synagogue has become known in the Puget Sound area as an ‘entryway’ to Judaism for folks interested in exploring Jewish life.”– Rabbi Mollie Wiesel

For more information contact Rabbi Mollie Weisel.

“Stepping into the Seasons: Introduction to the Jewish Holidays” – Mittleman JCC/PJ Library, Portland, OR

This 4-session program series, sponsored by the Mittleman JCC/PJ Library, invites interfaith families to explore Jewish holiday traditions. Each 90-minute event, held on a weekday evening, will offer an opportunity for families to learn and engage together. Each session parents will learn about a specific holiday and discover ways to incorporate these traditions into their own family lives. Children will enjoy a craft activity directly related to the holiday being celebrated.

For more information contact Lisa Katon, Donor Relations/Grants Specialist.

Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism – Tu Bshvat

See Examples of Recently Funded Grants

Check out our resource pages, containing descriptions of recently funded grants for Judaism 101, holiday, and interfaith engagement programs. Scroll through for program ideas, marketing suggestions, and advice on what worked well.

Our program profile pages are chock-full of examples of recently-funded projects, ranging from Judaism 101 classes to holiday workshops for interfaith families. To get ideas that you can use in your community see our profile 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.

Recently Awarded Grants

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 – Mishkan Chicago: celebration held at Shabbat for all the people welcomed into Judaism.

The post NCEJ Grants Help More Groups Offer Intro and Interfaith Engagement Programs appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

“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.

The post NCEJ Gives Grants for Holiday Programming to Engage Interfaith Families with Judaism appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

NCEJ funds programs that help individuals and families establish a Jewish identity and create a Jewish home.

We fund holiday workshops, Introduction to Judaism classes, and interfaith engagement programs for both adults and families. We give grants for marketing, program materials, security for in-person events, and related expenses. For more details visit our Grants Process page.

We place a priority on marketing, and encourage grantees to use a variety of channels to widen the audience and attract a diverse group of participants.

Get Ideas for Successful Programs that YOU can use in Your Community

---

Our new Program Resource pages are packed with profiles of recently funded programs from a wide range of groups, including synagogues, JCCs / Federations, national nonprofits, and international organizations. We provide highlights of programs focused on:

Introduction to Jewish Beliefs & Traditions – “Connecting Interfaith Individuals to Judaism”
Interfaith/Intercultural Engagement – “Fostering a Welcoming & Educational Pathway to Judaism”
Holiday Programming – “Celebrating and Connecting Newcomers to Jewish Life”

Apply Now—While There’s Still Plenty of Time to Plan Fall Holiday Programming!

We welcome questions, by phone or email. You can always reach out to us to make sure we received your application. Decisions are usually made within 45 days. For more details, visit our Grant Process page.

Jewish Women’s Global Celebrations 5781 – Rosh Hashanah

Here are just a few of our recent grants:

• Congregation Sha’ar Zahav (San Francisco) – Judaism 101
• Congregação Israelita Paulista (São Paulo, Brazil) – Conversion Program
• Midor Lidor (Israel) – Passover workshop for Kavkazi immigrants to Israel
• Miles Nadal JCC (Toronto) – Sing-Along Holiday Celebrations
• Kehillah RVA (Richmond) – Pop-up Judaism: Jewish Holidays

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

L’Shanah Tovah!
Have a Sweet New Year

Top photo courtesy of Temple B’nai Israel-Monroe, LA. Participants of their conversion class being formally welcomed into the Jewish faith.

The post NCEJ is Increasing Funding for Programs Connecting New People to Judaism appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

• Introduction to Jewish Beliefs & Traditions
• Interfaith/Intercultural Engagement
• Holiday programming

We give grants to local, regional, national, and international groups, ranging from small synagogues to large national nonprofits. We have provided funding for programs sponsored by JCCs/Federations, regional rabbinic consortia, and groups affiliated with the Orthodox, Conservative/Masorti, Reform, and Jewish Renewal movements.

We reimburse for marketing, program materials, security for in-person events, and other related expenses. For more details see our FAQs.

We accept applications throughout the year. Applicants are notified within 45 days. To apply go to our Grant Process page.

NCEJ Supports Small Southern Jewish Communities

Institute of Southern Jewish Life receives grant for conversion and interfaith programming

The ISJL’s Rabbi Caroline Sim travels to small communities across the South

NCEJ recently gave a grant to the Institute of Southern Jewish Life (ISJL) for conversion classes and traveling holiday programs. The ISJL serves a 13-state southern region and employs a full-time rabbi who works only with communities too small to have their own full-time Jewish clergy-person. Over the years, ISJL rabbis have facilitated many conversions. ISJL will use NCEJ’s grant to seek out more conversion students through targeted emails, social media marketing, and possibly print materials.

“ISJL supports, represents, and introduces Judaism on these visits in a way that is accessible, joyful, and community building.”
– Beth Kander-Dauphin, Development Director

Some of NCEJ’s funds will be used to support ISJL’s holiday programs, such as the Passover pilgrimage, where ISJL rabbis visit small Jewish communities, and the friends and neighbors within those communities. Some conversion students began their journey to Judaism with these traveling holiday events. ISJL provides the program materials, such as haggadahs, that are accessible to people regardless of their Judaic background.

For more details contact Beth Kander-Dauphin, Development Director.

Temple B’nai Israel Monroe, LA offers a 1-session Intro every year

Temple B’nai Israel offers a free 1-session Intro session every year. Every time the class is offered about 6-8 people decide to take the Conversion Class. Many of them become active members of the congregation. This year Rabbi Judy Ginsburgh hopes to offer the class in person (with an additional cost for security). She plans on serving traditional foods such as challah, kugel, and chopped liver to supplement the discussion.

Advertising: The program will be advertised on Facebook, regional newspapers, local magazines, and on the synagogue website.

Distinctive Idea: Rabbi Ginsburgh will serve the food on Jewish-themed paper goods.

“We appreciate your continued support of our efforts to educate people in small town Southern America.”
– Rabbi Judy Ginsburgh

For more details contact Rabbi Judy Ginsburgh.

Interested in Offering an Intro Course? Here are Some Programs We’ve Recently Funded

Curious About Judaism? – Congregation Ruach haMaqom, Burlington, VT

Ruach haMaqom is a Jewish renewal synagogue founded by Rabbi Jan Salzman, who developed the 10-session course. She has converted over 20 individuals in the last 5 years. Most of the synagogue’s members are interfaith, so a strong focus of the class is those who are not Jewish but are working to create a Jewish home.

Students are introduced to Jewish history; the Torah and the other sacred texts; Rabbinic modes of interpretation; rituals and holidays; life-cycle events; mystical and other spiritual traditions of Judaism; ritual, culture, music, food and dance; anti-Semitism; Israel; and other topics.

“A 10 week course that will cover the basics as well as the fringes, so to speak (that’s a tallis joke).”
– Rabbi Jan Salzman

There is no charge for the course, but donations to the synagogue are encouraged.

Rabbi Salzman is considering offering shorter courses throughout the year rather than one 10-week course, to better meet the needs of the people who take her classes.

For more information contact Rabbi Salzman. For copies of her book list and other resources Contact Us.

Introduction to Judaism – Congregation Keneseth Israel, Allentown, PA

Introduction to Judaism Haggadah & L’chaim glass

KI offered a 6-session Intro class in the spring for students who wanted to learn more about Judaism and establish a Jewish home. The course was team-taught by the rabbi and a variety of Jewish educators.

Topics included the Bible and other sacred texts, the Jewish calendar and holidays, life cycle celebrations, Shabbat, antisemitism and the Holocaust, Zionism and Israel. Concluding right before Passover, the final class included a model Seder with instructions on how to prepare for the ritual meal.

A portion of the NCEJ grant was used to defray the cost of a security guard each evening the class was held. The temple’s support staff and guest speakers offered their services gratis, and KI provided free handouts and materials to enhance the content of each session. In addition, the program coordinator brought home-made refreshments tied to the holiday being discussed.

“The foods always get rave reviews and students always ask for the recipes.”
– Martina Obenski, Outreach Coordinator

The class cost $30 for the public and was free to KI members. Each participant received a “Goodwill Giveaway” – haggadah and a “Shalom” mug, imprinted by a local merchant.

Advertising: The class was advertised in digital and print media throughout the greater Lehigh Valley.

Program Content: Session Summary (PDF)

Ideas Worth Replicating:

• Giving out Shalom Mugs to each participant.
• Serving refreshments including sweets that enhance the topic material (such as Challah and babka for Shabbat).
• Providing haggadahs for everyone.

For more information contact Martina Obenski, Outreach Coordinator.

Reaching Out to People Post-Conversion

Judaism 2.0 – Congregation Har HaShem, Boulder, CO

Judaism 2.0 is geared to people who are interested in conversion or who have converted in the last several years. The free 8-session program is designed to build community connections, especially important in a time of increased isolation due to Covid. Many of the participants have already completed the local Introduction to Judaism class. Mentoring is an important component of the program.

“One of the greatest things we do is to accompany people on their sacred Jewish journeys. For those who are looking for connection, inspiration, comfort, and community, we have been a positive, open, inclusive gateway.”
– Rabbi Fred Greene, Congregation Har HaShem

The clergy is developing the curriculum. It will focus on Prayer, Liturgy, Inspiration, and “Owning Your Judaism.” The program was developed because the congregation saw a need to provide greater support to folks who have spent much of their time beginning a Jewish journey online during the pandemic.

For more more details on the program contact Rabbi Fred Greene.

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

The post NCEJ Increasing Grant-Giving for Intro and Interfaith Engagement Programs appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

We are flexible on format – we fund online, hybrid, and in-person – or a combination! Plus, you can change the format after your grant has been awarded — just let us know.

We give grants for marketing, program materials, and related expenses for Intro-type classes, interfaith family engagement, and other programs geared to people who don’t identify as Jewish who are interested in learning more about Judaism. We fund adult and family programs; single session seminars and multi-month series, first-time and well-established programs. Visit our Programs page to learn more about what we fund.

We prioritize programs that are promoted to a wider audience. This can include banners, flyers, and postcards, as well as digital advertising and email marketing. Visit our Marketing Gallery to see examples of the types of marketing we have funded.

There are no deadlines, and applicants will be notified within 45 days. For more details, visit our Grant Process page.

Congregation Beth Israel Vancouver Canada’s successful initiative to interfaith families includes some innovative ideas others can emulate

BI Neighbourhoods is a year-long program designed to engage young families who are new to Jewish traditions, including interfaith families and people who have recently converted. At each event, there is time for Jewish learning and education, suitable for all ages. BI also provides take-home baskets with Jewish-themed items to help families bring Judaism into their homes.

Rosh Hashanah take home kit – BI Neighbourhoods

The BI Neighbourhoods program has been successful in reaching interfaith families, and helping them engage with the Jewish community and synagogue life. The program connects these families to the rabbis, the synagogue, and to each other. The take-home kits are a tangible way of strengthening the connection to Judaism.

BI seeks to ensure that its programs have a “low-cost barrier to entry” so that it is extremely easy for families to join in.

“We are continually identifying new families that we can reach out to and connect to our programs… We try to send families home with new knowledge of traditions that they can incorporate easily at home.”
– Debra Bulmash, Coordinator

Hand-delivered Holiday Baskets

BI creates holiday baskets and delivers them directly to participants so that they can learn about Jewish traditions and have items available in their homes to celebrate each holiday. Hand-delivery removes an impediment to receipt of the kits, and helps families feel more a part of the BI community.

An Optional Program Fee

Last spring, for the first time, BI had a small suggested donation for the Passover kit. Approximately 70% of people paid $10 and 10-15% of people paid more than the suggested amount ($18-$20), helping to cover some of the cost for others, and the remainder paid $0-$5. Over 80 families purchased kits.

For details contact Debra Bulmash.

Miles-Nadal Jewish Community Centre Toronto to offer year-long series focusing on lifecycle moments under its “Jewish &” program umbrella

Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre – Sing-Along Workshops

This is the third NCEJ grant Miles-Nadal has received for interfaith/intercultural programming for “Jewish &” folks and families. Lauren Schreiber Sasaki, Manager of Jewish engagement and inclusion, noted that:

“We know that moments like birth/coming of age/commitment/grief are doorways through which interfaith folks are most open to stepping into Jewish life and community… We want to lay the groundwork for understanding core Jewish concepts and customs, (and) offer a warm welcome into community.”

Also new this year, Miles Nadal will be offering pre-holiday song workshops. There is nothing more joyful and uniting than joining a community in song, and similarly – nothing more isolating than not knowing the words and melodies to be able to join in. The sing-along workshops will serve to prepare newcomers to Judaism to join in in song and songful prayer.

Marketing: The program will be promoted through online marketing and creative social media campaigns – facebook/instagram sponsored ads, monthly Spotify playlists and a greeting card campaign.

For details contact Lauren Schreiber Sasaki.

Jewish Federation of Raleigh-Cary widely advertised its Fall “Jewish Essentials” class

Jewish Essentials kit – The Jewish Federation of Raleigh-Cary

Jewish Essentials is the pathway to Judaism for individuals in Wake County, NC who are interested in conversion as well as interfaith couples and others who want to learn more about Judaism. Jorie Slodki, Grants and Content Manager, stated in the application that “With the return to in-person classes, we want to advertise widely in order to ensure a robust class size.”

Marketing: The class was promoted through email newsletters, Facebook posts and ads, newsletters from local congregations, the ShopLocalRaleigh website, and flyers and mailings to potential participants.

The Federation also provided holiday kits which enhanced the experience of the class and helped make students feel part of the community. They included supplemental readings, a printed guide to the Jewish holidays, a mezuzah, and holiday items like dreidels and challah covers.

For details contact Jorie Slodki.

Looking for ideas that you can use in your community?

Recent Grants

• Congregation Sha’ar Zahav – San Francisco
• Jewish Silicon Valley
• Project Kesher – NYC
• Congregation Keneseth Israel – Allentown PA
• JCC of Greater Pittsburgh

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

The post NCEJ Now Accepting Applications for Programs Starting in 2022 appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

NCEJ is giving grants for programs that welcome new people to Judaism – Intro and interfaith; online, in-person, or a combination, single sessions or multiple months.

Looking for ideas or not sure what we’ll fund?  Check out NCEJ’s website to see what programs we’ve funded in the past, or give us a call. We’ll be happy to talk with you.

The process is easy – for details and an application visit our Grant Process page. There are no deadlines, and turn-around time is generally within 45 days. Apply now and you’ll know by the end of July whether you received a grant, so you can start putting programs in place for next year.

Marketing graphic funded by NCEJ for Sha’ar Zahav, San Francisco – Journey to Judaism Program

Are you a small or medium-size synagogue?

Are you a small or medium-size synagogue thinking of offering an outreach program that will connect new people to Judaism and your synagogue? We can put you in touch with grantees who can give you ideas for effective programs that you can try in your community.

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.

Have a happy and healthy Summer!

Top photo courtesy of Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism, Converting with the Family: Purim Spiel – made by the families of the program!

The post Funding Available Now For Fall Programs That Help Welcome Newcomers to Judaism appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

How Grantees Are Connecting Interfaith Families to Judaism in New Ways

Many NCEJ grantees are using a combination of hands-on kits and innovative virtual programming to reach interfaith and new Jew-by-choice families during a pandemic. The kits give families an activity to do at home, even if they choose not to participate in the online sessions, and help to actively engage all participants.

The JCC of Greater Pittsburgh’s “Home to Home” holiday celebrations help create Jewish memories

The goal of the JCCPGH’s Home to Home programming is to “support and encourage interfaith families who are just beginning the journey to make Judaism a part of their lives.” In the fall, families received a welcome kit, and then picked up a “Jewish Celebration Kit” prior to each holiday. 60 families picked up at least one kit. Each Zoom session was 45 minutes. Danielle West, PJ Library Coordinator, reports that the sessions created opportunities for friendship, invaluable during a time when activities were limited. The JCCPGH is doing a similar program this season, focusing on Pesach, Shavuot, and other spring holidays. 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 contact Rabbi Ron Symons, Senior Director of Jewish Life or Danielle West, PJ Library coordinator.

Nashville Jewish Federation’s “Building Sacred Spaces” seeks to engage interfaith / intermarried couples in Jewish conversations

The goal of the one-year program, according to Adam Bronstone, director of planning, is to help these individuals and families “establish a Jewish identity and traditions in their respective homes.” NCEJ funding will be used to design meaningful content, including the development of kits containing ritual items such as candlesticks and cooking materials for sessions on traditional Jewish foods. The program will be marketed through social media and word-of-mouth.

For details contact Adam Bronstone.

The Jewish Enrichment Center of Chicago provides an entry point into Judaism for families with young children

Jewish Play Take Home Kit (credit: Jewish Enrichment Center Chicago)

JEC’s Family Jewish program sends play kits to participants, filled with developmentally appropriate play materials, craft projects, song sheets, and information about Jewish holidays and topics. The materials give adults the content knowledge and confidence to bring Judaism into their families lives, regardless of their Judaic background. For example, the fall series play kits offered family pretend play prompts for Rosh Hashanah (phrases to use with imaginary play), information on the origin of the Sukkot holiday, Chanukah candle lighting blessings, recipes, and more. Many people heard about the program through word of mouth or the JEC’s own website. NCEJ grant funding enabled JEC to advertise in several local online publications and on Facebook and Instagram, which brought in families they would not have reached through other means.

“(The) program has been an overwhelming success… the craft projects, authentic Jewish materials, and information for parents… encourage Jewish play at home and offer basic Jewish knowledge to parents.”

For details contact Sara Grossman, Assistant Director.

Planning Now for Fall 2021? Apply for a Grant from NCEJ

The National Center to Encourage Judaism has funding available now for virtual/hybrid programming that welcomes new people to Judaism – interfaith families, individuals considering conversion, others interested in learning more about Judaism’s beliefs and traditions. Our grants help connect people who do not identify as Jewish with Judaism, increasing their engagement with Jewish organizations. We support programs that provide an “on-ramp” to Judaism for people on the periphery of Jewish life. For more details visit our Grant Process page. Applications are accepted anytime.

Looking for Programming Ideas? We Can Help.

Our Virtual Programming page is packed with innovative ways to engage people online, such as supplementing screen time with activity kits. We have ideas for interfaith family engagement programs, conversion classes, holiday programs, and much more.

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.

Have a Program in Mind, but Looking for Ways to Reach More People? Check out our New Marketing Gallery

Our Marketing Gallery is chock-full of examples, ranging from Facebook and Instagram ads to print flyers, postcards, and brochures. See how synagogues, JCCs, and other groups have promoted their programs for adults and families—ranging from single-session to multi-month events, discussion groups to how-to workshops and hands-on activities.

Recent Grant Highlights

JCC Tallinn in the Jewish Community of Estonia

NCEJ renews Joint Distribution Committee grant for outreach programming in Latvia and Estonia

JDC’s programs at the JCCs in Riga and Tallinn provide a welcoming Jewish home to individuals who have recently discovered they have Jewish roots and are interested in developing their Jewish identity. Newly affiliated Jews experience the richness of Shabbat and Jewish holidays through a range of on-line and in-person celebrations. This (pictured right) took place during a brief relaxing of social distancing restrictions, and people welcomed the opportunity to reconnect to their newfound community.

In the coming year a variety of virtual educational, cultural, and social activities will help connect people with Judaism, including pluralistic holiday and Shabbat celebrations designed for people of all ages, youth clubs to engage teens in Jewish life, community service and volunteer activities, and social activities such as Jewish cooking lessons, and virtual tours of Israel. Participants will be encouraged to ask questions and actively explore what being Jewish can mean to them.

Hillel CASE (Central Asia/Southeastern Europe) offered “Let My People Grow” Passover program

NCEJ awarded a grant to Hillel CASE for a Passover program. This year’s grant was used for holiday kits to enable participants to create a Seder at home, in addition to learning about Passover traditions online.

“We are sure that over the past months we have taken a special place in the lives of our students and we are confident that they are not alone but together with their big Jewish Hillel family”

Kolot Mayim, a small synagogue in British Columbia, receives grant to adapt Intro to online format

Kolot Mayim Reform Congregation used an NCEJ grant to adapt PowerPoint presentations, create break-out sessions, and research and develop visual materials that would help sustain participants’ interest online. The 20-week basic Judaism virtual class was preceded by a 3-week overview “Nosher’s Plate.” The evaluation noted several benefits of online learning, including allowing participation by people who would find it difficult to attend a class in person, such as people with mobility issues or who live a significant distance from the synagogue. Many of the students regularly attended online services and other synagogue programs. There was a high level of interaction with the rabbi, through emailed questions and regularly scheduled meetings.

Recent Grant Awards

• American Jewish University: Online Introduction to Judaism
• Congregation B’nai Amoona, St. Louis: “The Art of Jewish Living”
• Hillel Kyiv: “Introduction to Jewish Tradition”
• Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism: “Converting with the Family: Introduction to Jewish Holiday Customs”
• Jewish Federation of Raleigh-Cary: “Jewish Essentials” class
• Rabbinical Association Greater Kansas City: Community Conversion class
• Shaar Zahav, San Francisco: Judaism 101 and Journey to Judaism Discussion class
• Women of Reform Judaism: “Online Outreach” programming for women new to Judaism

Articles and Resources

We welcome your inquiries. Please reach out to us at 301-802-4254, or contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director. To apply, visit our Grant Process page.

Top photo courtesy of Hillel Minsk

The post NCEJ’s Grantees Use Online Programming to Engage Interfaith Families appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

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.

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.

To apply for a grant, simply fill out our short two-page application which can be downloaded here. Submit your application at any time throughout the year. Notification is made within 45 days.

Anyone who applies by November 15 is eligible for an additional funding bonus. See a special mention of our funding bonus in eJewish Philanthropy.

Apply today for an NCEJ Grant—and tell your friends in the field, too.

Here’s what one of our grantees said about the NCEJ grant her organization received:

“It is clear that our sisterhood leaders accepted the (NCEJ) grants with a clear vision. These programs are able to be easily replicated and will serve as models for sisterhoods in the future as well. Your gift is truly one that keeps on giving.”

We welcome ideas for innovative programs, as well as proposals for events that can be replicated by others.

An NCEJ grant can help you attract more people to Judaism from all walks of life and backgrounds.

• Temple Beth Israel, Broward County, FL offers conversion classes for Spanish speakers. Two of the students who went through the conversion class are currently members of the synagogue board.
• West Suburban Temple Har Zion River Forest, IL just received a grant for an Introductory Judaism class for Spanish speakers.
• Women of Temple Sinai, Pittsburgh, PA hosted a “Pride Seder” program which reached women in the congregation who were studying for their conversion, as well as others, including many from outside the synagogue.
• Jewish Federation of Greater Orange County / New York – Interfaith Family Engagement Project. This initiative will offer monthly two-hour conversations for parents (with children welcome) focused on building a Jewish home.

Have an idea? Give us a call or send us an email, contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director or call 301-802-4254.

Here are a few of our recent grants:

• Welcome to Judaism Course (Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine/Portland): Working collaboratively with all clergy in the community, the JCA will offer five sessions over six weeks.
• Finding Your Place in B’nai Mitzvah: The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis will hold a four-series seminar for Jewish/non-Jewish families in the bar/bat mitzvah stage to help them navigate some of the issues they may face.
• 2nd Nite Learners Seder for Conversion Students (Congregation Beth Tikvah, Toronto): This provided families an opportunity to celebrate Passover with others going through the same process.

Programs such as these can start participants on a Jewish journey. Here’s just one example:

“Our Taste of Judaism classes are a great way to introduce inactive and non-Jews to Judaism in a friendly, non-proselytizing atmosphere.”

Many students have continued on to other adult education classes. One Jewish retiree who had been unaffiliated took the Taste of Judaism® class a few years ago, got involved in the synagogue, and volunteered as an adult education chairman the past year. Additionally, a couple who attended the Taste of Judaism® class joined the weekly Torah study group.

In Other Grant News…

The NCEJ grant to the Union of Reform Judaism (URJ) was recently renewed. URJ will use the grant for marketing Introduction to Judaism and A Taste of Judaism® classes. The funds will be used to support classes held by individual synagogues and for social media and other advertising for URJ-sponsored classes.

The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) received an additional grant for 2018-19. This will enable more small- to medium-sized communities to receive sub grants for programming geared to interfaith families, including PJ library participants.

Want to Learn More?

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

Have a program idea that needs funding?

Give us a call or send us an email, contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director or call 301-802-4254.

The post Start the New Year With New Programming—Apply for a Grant Today appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.