We fund marketing, security, program materials, and related expenses for Judaism 101 classes, holiday workshops, and interfaith engagement programs. For our grant guidelines and other details see our Grants Process page.

Celebrating and Connecting Newcomers to Jewish Life

NCEJ provides 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. They use engaging programming, sometimes supplemented with holiday celebration kits, to create an environment that both educates and welcomes newcomers.

“Inclusive Outreach 2nd Night Seder” – Temple Shalom, Manitoba Canada

Outreach Seder, Temple Shalom, Manitoba

Temple Shalom, Manitoba held an “Inclusive Outreach” 2nd night Seder. It was geared towards people attending a Seder for the first time including recent Jews by Choice and those considering journeying into Judaism. Everyone who wanted to come was welcomed. Everything that was sung or said in Hebrew had the accompanying transliteration and translation to make it accessible to all. The Seder combined both traditional and contemporary themes.

New symbols were added to commemorate current events, such as an empty chair at the table for the hostages. Passover Taboo was played at each table. (In addition to being fun, playing the game added to participants knowledge of the holiday).

For more information contact Sherry Wolfe Elazar, Jewish Learning Coordinator.

“Choosing Judaism – A Shavuot Panel and Dinner” – Sutton Place Synagogue, New York City

Sutton Place Synagogue – Shavuot program flyer

Sutton Place Synagogue (SPS) had a panel featuring Jews by Choice as part of the synagogue’s celebration of Shavuot. The panel brought together members of the SPS community who chose Judaism as converts from different backgrounds and time periods to discuss their experiences, joys, and challenges in a facilitated clergy-led panel for an audience of over 100 people. This was followed by a traditional dairy dinner. After dinner, the panel answered questions about their experiences and what it means to choose Judaism.

One of the goals of the program was to provide inspiration and encouragement for audience members who might be considering or in the process of conversion. In addition, there was ample opportunity for creating connections over dinner.

For more information contact Abby Johnson-Guez, Director of Membership and Development.

Check Out Our Website for More Examples from Recently-Funded Programs

We have given grants to over a dozen countries in the last 8 years, and over 1/3 of our grantees in 2023 were first-timers. For information on the type of programs we have funded, see our Program Profile pages.

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. To learn about future grant opportunities sign up for our newsletter.

Top photo courtesy of Temple Shalom, Manitoba.

The post Apply Now for 2025 Spring Programs Welcoming New People to Judaism appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

Since 2017 NCEJ has given grants for programs that welcome new people to Judaism in over a dozen countries, including Canada, Israel, Brazil, Spain, Great Britain, Ukraine, Poland, and Germany. We fund marketing, program materials, security, and related expenses for Intro and interfaith engagement programs. For our grant guidelines and other details see our Grants Process page.

An NCEJ Grant Enabled a Synagogue in Jamaica to Connect to the Center for Jewish Life at Beth David, Miami

“Jamaica Conversion Program” – Shaare Shalom Synagogue, Kingston, Jamaica & The Center for Jewish Life at Beth David, Miami, FL

The Shaare Shalom Conversion Program was a year-long program of Judaic studies for over 20 people who were interested in converting to Judaism. They were taught remotely by Rabbi Adam Gindea at the Center for Jewish Life at Beth David, Miami. Students met monthly, exploring the Jewish calendar and traditions, and participated in the weekly Torah study group and other virtual programming offered in Miami. Rabbi Adam also met one-on-one with the students as part of the conversion process.

“This has been such a remarkable experience to witness and facilitate.” – Rabbi Gindea

A formal conversion ceremony was held in June in Jamaica. The ritual immersion was in the ocean waters outside Kingston.

Watch the celebration videos & see the program photos here.

For more details contact Rabbi Adam Gindea.

NCEJ is Funding Conversion Classes in Ukraine offered by the Midreshet Schechter Institute

Family Camp – Midreshet Schechter, Ukraine

More people with Jewish roots in Ukraine are discovering their Jewish heritage, and some of them ultimately decide to convert to Judaism. Candidates interested in converting study with the Midreshet Schechter rabbi for one to two years, and take part in Jewish community life. The program is held in several cities in Ukraine, including Kyiv and Odessa. In preparation, students must attend a local synagogue for Shabbat activities at least once a week, plus conversion classes. The culmination of the conversion classes occurs at a 4-day retreat, followed by a conversion ceremony.

Building Jewish Identity – The retreat gives families – Jewish, intermarried, and those converting – the experience of a week together in the country, learning how to observe Shabbat and bring Jewish tradition into their homes, and helps them build Jewish identity as a family.

“Especially during this difficult time of crisis in Ukraine, belonging to a close-knit Jewish community provides a buffer against the travails of war.” – Michal Makov-Peled, Executive Director

For more details contact Michal Makov-Peled, Executive Director.

NCEJ’s grant to the Israel Reform Movement for a program for interfaith families from the Former Soviet Union (FSU) helped connect many to Judaism at an unexpectedly challenging time.

Jewish renewal for interfaith Russian and Ukrainian refugees and immigrants – The Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism, Israel

NCEJ gave a grant to the Israel Reform Movement in 2023 for a year-long Jewish renewal program for interfaith Russian and Ukrainian refugees and immigrants (who arrived within the past 5 years). The goal was to encourage engagement with Judaism through introductory classes and workshops, online activities, holiday and Shabbat celebrations, lifecycle events, and conversion (for those interested).

Hundreds of people attended Shabbat and holiday prayer services during the year, with a large segment coming from interfaith families. Many families learned about holiday rituals and customs by coming to community-based holiday celebrations.

“What I feel isn’t just about candles, or history; it is about the miracle of belonging, my personal Hanukkah miracle… My deepest and sincerest thanks to NCEJ for making all that happens at Kehillat Shirat HaGan possible, and therefore making my life here so much deeper and richer.” – participant

Thirty young adults in the program recently completed a leadership course, and learned how to lead a Kabbalat Shabbat service and facilitate Jewish life cycle events. The new leaders plan on publicizing the program via social media and other digital methods, to bring in more participants.

“This is a huge step forwards as now these program participants can actually pass on Judaism to others, like ambassadors, and can both practice and lead Jewish ritual independently within this unique community.” – Tamar Roig, Program Coordinator

Watch the video from the Seder that Rabbi Grisha held for his congregation in Ramat Gan and Tel Aviv here.

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

NCEJ helps support JDC’s Jewish renewal efforts in Central and Eastern Europe

Joint Distribution Committee – (JDC), Poland, Latvia, Estonia, Budapest and Hungary

NCEJ has given grants to JDC since 2017, for programs in Poland, Latvia, Estonia, and Hungary. In 2023 we helped engage young people with Judaism at Camp Szarvas, located near Budapest. Many Szarvas campers come from Central and Eastern Europe, and learn about their Judaism for the first time. Some are from communities where their Jewish heritage may have been hidden for generations, or where interfaith relationships are common.

“Camp Szarvas, where so many youngsters have discovered and fallen in love with their Judaism for the very first time.” – Eliza Prince, Director of Global Strategic Partnerships

The camp offers participants an entry to Jewish life, and gives them the tools to be Jewish leaders in their own communities. When they return home they are able to increase the involvement of their friends and families with Judaism.

NCEJ helped fund holiday celebrations at the JCC Budapest and JCC Riga

“With the support of the National Center to Encourage Judaism, this year thousands of people in Hungary and Latvia strengthened their Jewish knowledge and identity and connected to the Jewish community through the JCC Budapest and JCC Riga.”

In Budapest, Ukrainian refugees joined the JCC community for a reading of Megillat Esther and a Purim costume party. In Riga, at Passover families from a variety of Jewish backgrounds learned about the holiday and its traditions, played Passover-themed games, and tried out Israeli dancing.

NCEJ helps fund an Inclusive Outreach Seder at Temple Shalom, Manitoba

Inclusive Outreach Pesach Seder – Temple Shalom Manitoba, Winnipeg Canada

This past year Temple Shalom, Manitoba received an unprecedented number of inquiries from people who wanted to learn more about Judaism. In April the congregation held an “Inclusive Outreach” 2nd night Seder. It was geared towards people attending a Seder for the first time including recent Jews by Choice and those considering journeying into Judaism. Everyone who wanted to come was welcomed. Everything that was sung or said in Hebrew had the accompanying transliteration and translation to make it accessible to all.

For more information contact Sherry Wolfe Elazar, Jewish Learning Coordinator.

Top photo courtesy of Shaare Shalom Synagogue, Jamaica.

The post NCEJ Is Increasing Its Global Grant Giving appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

NCEJ grantees are exploring creative ways to publicize their conversion programs. Highlights from some of the programs we have recently funded are featured below. Read advice and lessons from the program coordinators for helpful tips if you are trying to reach potential conversion candidates.

Innovative Outreach – Using Public Radio

“Welcome to Judaism” – Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine

Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine (JCA) offered an introductory course in Spring 2023 called Welcome to Judaism. It was an overview of Jewish life, culture, holidays, foodways, and history. JCA used a variety of curriculum resources to supplement the textbook (Arthur Green’s “Judaism’s Ten Best Ideas”). Additionally, particular attention was paid to the interests, questions, and concerns of attendees, which included learning about Jewish life in Portland and in Maine, interest in mysticism/Kabbalah, and navigating interfaith family issues.

The course began and ended with sessions at the JCA, with intermediate sessions held out in the community and at local synagogues in order to familiarize participants with all of the local Jewish institutions.

“I really enjoyed that we spent time going to different synagogues and talking with people from outside the course. That helped make those spaces feel a lot more open and it was wonderful to get to ask questions of a range of different rabbis.”
– student participant

Marketing: The program was marketed via social media, the JCA website and newsletter, local synagogue newsletters, and the local public radio station, MPBN.

For more information contact Molly Curren Rowles, Executive Director.

Innovative Outreach – Serving Small Communities Without Clergy

“Seeking Judaism” – Institute of Southern Jewish Life, Jackson, MS

The Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life (ISJL) is dedicated to serving even the smallest Jewish communities in the South, and welcoming individuals into Jewish life and culture. ISJL employs a staff rabbi who spends much of her time on the road, visiting places too small to have their own local Jewish clergy. NCEJ gave a grant in 2022 to help ISJL expand outreach to potential conversion students.

In 2022 there were 8 completed conversions, significantly more than in prior years. One participant, featured in the photos below, explained she reached out to Rabbi Caroline Sim from ISJL, who guided her through the conversion process.

“One of the most important aspects of our outreach is the ongoing nature of it, how deeply we connect with our interfaith and conversion partners to continue Jewish journeys with them.”
– Beth Kander-Dauphin

For more information contact Beth Kander-Dauphin, Chief Strategy Officer.

Innovative Outreach – Advertise on Streaming Platforms

“Living Judaism” – Sutton Place Synagogue, New York City

Sutton Place Synagogue, located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, recently established the Block Center for Jewish Exploration and Education. The Block Center’s 23-session Living Judaism course will start in Fall 2023 and use American Jewish University’s Miller Intro to Judaism curriculum.

Marketing: The congregation plans to publicize the course across all of its existing channels. In addition, the course will be advertised on social media, Hulu, and other digital platforms.

“We aim to grow our Jewish and congregational community and give participants the tools to feel at home as Jews wherever they find themselves.”
– Abby Johnson

For more information contact Abby Johnson, Director of Membership and Development.

Have an idea for a program but not sure if it’s something we will fund?

We welcome inquiries about our grants process. Reach out to us at 301-802-4254, or contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director.

Please tell your colleagues about NCEJ and let them know we accept applications throughout the year.

Top photo courtesy of Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine. Participants of their “Welcome to Judaism” class.

The post Grantee Spotlight: NCEJ Supports Conversion Programs Worldwide appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

Considering sponsoring an Intro or conversion class in 2023? If you charge less than $18 per person per session you could receive additional funding from NCEJ!

NCEJ offers grants to synagogues, JCCs, and other Jewish nonprofits that provide programming that welcomes new people to Judaism. We give grants for marketing, program materials, and other expenses that help individuals and families establish a Jewish identity and create a Jewish home.

We want to encourage groups to offer Intro and conversion classes at a lower cost than they might otherwise, to widen the audience and reduce potential barriers to participation. Apply by January 31 and if the per-person charge for each session is under $18, your organization could be eligible for a bonus of up to 18% (up to a maximum of $1,000). For example, you could offer a 10-session course for $175, or a 6-session course for $100. For examples of recently funded projects, see our “Introduction to Jewish Traditions” profile page.

What We Fund

We fund a mix of advertising methods, to help grantees reach more people and increase attendance. Examples of promotional materials we have funded recently include:

We cover a variety of program materials, including:

NCEJ has funded translations in Spanish, French, and Portuguese for Intro to Judaism and conversion classes, and given grants for programs located in over a dozen countries.

We also reimburse for security and some staff and technology costs.

Recently Funded Judaism 101 And Conversion Programs

Community Wide Course: Judaism for Conversion Candidates – Rabbinical Association of Greater Kansas City

RAKC’s year-long 36-week course is taught on a rotating basis by rabbis from the Reform, Conservative and Orthodox movements and is intended to acquaint those considering conversion to Judaism with what it means to live Jewishly. The course cost is $250 (including textbooks).

This program provides a comprehensive forum to engage, educate and connect potential Jews-by-choice to Judaism, and guides them in learning how to create a Jewish home. Students gain insight on a wide range of topics, presented from the perspective of all three major denominations.

Judaism for Conversion Candidates – Simply KC magazine ad

“By combining community resources students gain a much stronger and richer experience as they explore their spiritual journey.” – Annette Fish, Administrator/Program Director

Each class includes a 30-minute Hebrew component. Hands on extra-curricular activities enhance Jewish learning as students take part in a Shabbat worship service, Chanukah celebration, and Passover Seder, and are provided with ritual kits that help them observe and celebrate Jewish holidays.

Marketing: The class is promoted through print and digital advertising, including 2 local monthly Kansas City magazines, Google ads, the RAKC website, and social media. The magazines created the ad featured here for the consortium.

For details contact Annette Fish, Administrator.

“Seeking Judaism” – Institute of Southern Jewish Life, Jackson, MS

The Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life (ISJL) is dedicated to serving even the smallest Jewish communities in the South. ISJL employs a staff rabbi who visits places too small to have their own local Jewish clergy. NCEJ gave a grant earlier this year to help ISJL expand outreach to potential conversion students.

The rabbi now has 8 conversion students, with more requests continuing to come in. This represents an increase of 300% over the past three years. (In prior years there were only l-2 active conversion students per year). This number does not include program participants, inquiries, or referrals to other programs such as the Union of Reform Judaism’s Introductory Judaism class.

Marketing: The marketing team used Canva Pro to enhance its promotional efforts. Marketing included Instagram and Facebook posts introducing the rabbi and mentioning conversion opportunities.

“The exponential increase in conversion requests truly seems to correlate with our increased marketing efforts as supported by this grant.” – Beth Kander-Dauphin, Chief Strategy Officer

For more information contact Beth Kander-Dauphin.

To see examples of effective marketing techniques from our grantees see our Marketing Gallery.

Conversion Class – Temple B’nai Israel, Monroe, LA

Temple B’nai Israel offers a 10-month conversion class every year, followed by a formal conversion to Judaism led by the congregation’s part-time rabbi, Rabbi Judy Ginsburgh. The class met 1-2 times a month in 2021-2022, mostly on Zoom. In addition to books the students also received 4 holiday ritual kits to make it easier for them to celebrate holidays at home. The program cost $600.

“As a Rabbi, I loved how excited these students get about learning and how they are sharing this learning and Jewish rituals with their families. I also like how all of them have already become active members of our Synagogue.” – Rabbi Ginsburgh

Marketing: The class was promoted using local bulletins, flyers and social media.

Temple B’nai Israel used the NCEJ grant to provide some basic ritual items to their students, partly pay for the cost of the books and materials, and help pay for security for in-person events.

For more information contact Rabbi Judy Ginsburgh.

Exploring Judaism Class – Mishkan Chicago

Mishkan Chicago has seen substantial growth in its “Exploring Judaism” class in the last few years. There will be 49 participants in the 2022-2023 class. The class is geared towards people who didn’t grow up practicing or identifying with Judaism—whether they are studying to convert or looking to bring Judaism into their multi-faith home.

There were 2 cohorts of the class: in-person and online. The virtual class enabled people who did not live in Chicago, or have a disability, or for whom it is more convenient to meet and learn online to participate in the program.

“It is a complete joy to be able to offer this program and bring so many people into the Jewish community.” – Rachel Cort, Executive Director

Marketing: Mishkan Chicago promoted the class via an email newsletter, social media channels, and word of mouth.

Follow-up Plans: Mishkan Chicago would like to establish a more robust alumni network so that prior students could serve as a resource for current students.

For more information contact Rachel Cort.

Miller Introduction to Judaism – Temple Beth Israel of Highland Park and Eagle Rock, Los Angeles

Temple Beth Israel (TBI) is offering the Miller 18 week “On One Foot” Introduction to Judaism class for $350 in 2023. The class will be available in both English and Spanish, geared primarily to residents of East Los Angeles who are interested in learning more about the basics of Judaism.

“Our primary goal is to welcome new people into Judaism, whether they be interested individuals, families, or non-Jewish spouses seeking to draw closer to their spouse’s tradition.” – Rabbi Daniel Chorny

Marketing: The congregation plans on conducting an extensive multi-channel marketing campaign, including the local Jewish press, Google/Facebook/Instagram, YouTube, and flyers.

For more information contact Rabbi Educator Daniel Chorny.

The Open Door: Stepping into Jewish Life / Intro to Judaism – Temple Israel of Boston

The Open Door Program at Temple Israel (TI), a large Reform congregation in downtown Boston, is an entry point for those who are looking to explore, rediscover, or connect with Judaism and synagogue life.

“Journeys to Judaism are vast and varied. Who you are and how you locate yourself in the Jewish story is a journey that all who are drawn to Judaism take, including those born into its heritage, those who choose it as their inheritance, and those whose legacy is love and who cherish the people in their lives who are Jewish.” – Rabbi Andrew Oberstein

Each semester TI offers holiday kits and a Shabbat dinner experience to Introduction to Judaism students. One of the goals of the Shabbat dinner is to help build community and foster new relationships among the cohort. Once the Intro to Judaism students receive the kits, one of TI’s rabbis leads an online discussion and talks about celebrating holidays at home.

For more information contact Shoshanna Goldberg, Director of Membership and Development.

Conversion Program – Congregação Israelita Paulista, Brazil

The main objective of the 1-year conversion program was to introduce the basic concepts of Judaism so that students could “follow their life within the community.” A pluralistic view of Judaism was emphasized. Teachers were from both the Reform and Conservative denominations.

“Judaism belongs to us because we study, live, practice, and feel it.” – Congregação Israelita Paulista

Marketing: The congregation used the NCEJ grant to increase marketing, and as a result attracted more participants to the program. The program was publicized on the synagogue’s website and on social media, and some printed materials were also produced.

For more information contact Beatriz Muller, Director of Membership and Development.

Promoting Judaism

An NFL football game this fall featured an ad from the Institute for Jewish Spirituality highlighting the benefits of Judaism. Read more here: “Going on offense: Why we ran an ad for Judaism during an NFL game” By Rabbi Josh Feigelson, EJ Philanthropy November 16, 2022.

Here are just a few of our recent grants:

Have an idea for a program but not sure if it’s something we will fund?

We welcome inquiries about our grants process. Reach out to us at 301-802-4254, or contact Ellen Gerecht, Executive Director.

Please tell your colleagues about NCEJ and let them know we accept applications throughout the year.

Top photo courtesy of Mishkan Chicago. Participants of their “Exploring Judaism” class.

The post NCEJ is Offering a Bonus for Groups Offering Intro & Conversion Classes – Apply Now! 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.

The World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ) Conversion Program in the Iberian Peninsula Attracts People of all Ages and Backgrounds

NCEJ gave WUPJ a 2-year grant in 2018 for conversion programs in the Iberian Peninsula. The program includes both online classes and periodic in-person visits, outreach, educational materials, lifecycle and conversion ceremonies. The program was promoted through the World Union’s network of Progressive Jewish congregations in Spain and Portugal as well as on their respective websites.

Russian-born Israeli Progressive Rabbi Alona Lisitsa leads the program. Thirty students have completed the program in the past two years and there are currently 15 conversion candidates in the new class – including four children. The current participants are from all over the Iberian Peninsula including Lisbon, Portugal, Galicia, Spain, and an entire family from Valencia, Spain.

Program Features Include:

• A new curriculum for children: For younger students Rabbi Lisitsa focuses primarily on music, storytelling, and a variety of experiential educational activities to impart the rich history of Judaism.
• Customizable classes: Rabbi Lisitsa has designed her conversion course to be accessible and welcoming to everyone who wants to participate. Some of the participants who had been raised as Christians never felt that Christianity felt “right” for them; eventually they discovered their own Jewish roots dating back to before the Inquisition. Her courses are comprised of both online group classes and periodic in-person meetings, allowing the program to be customizable for each person’s needs.

Rabbi Lisitsa’s program is coordinated with the Bet Din of the European Union for Progressive Judaism. The course meets the same standards set for all conversions in Europe, and rabbinic representatives of the European Bet Din participate in the final conversion ceremony to ensure that the conversion will be accepted by all communities.

At a recent conversion ceremony, Rabbi Lisitsa reflected:

“I cannot think of a more moving and meaningful ending for the long and challenging process of return and conversion for these candidates. This is a moment when Jews from different geographic and cultural contexts are united in prayer, in Torah, and in peoplehood.”

NCEJ is delighted to support the WUPJ Conversion and Outreach Programs in the Iberian Peninsula.

JDC Welcomes Newcomers to Judaism in Warsaw and Riga

In 2018 NCEJ provided funds to the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) to expand programming at the Warsaw and Riga JCCs for families and individuals who wanted to know more about their Jewish roots. People were welcomed regardless of their background, level of knowledge, or observance, and given an opportunity to learn about Judaism in fun, engaging ways. As a result, participants were inspired to practice Jewish traditions with their families at home, as well as continue attending activities at the JCCs.

At the Warsaw JCC holiday programming helped newcomers to Judaism develop their Jewish identity. For example, for Sukkot there was a week of activities in the sukkah, including meals, classes, prayers, and workshops and at Passover there was a teen-run educational scavenger hunt.

The JCC is the focus of Jewish communal life in Riga, Latvia’s capital. Situated in a hip area of the city it is attractive and accessible to all, particularly someone who just uncovered Jewish ancestors or a non-Jewish spouse who might be reluctant about connecting with Jewish life. Through classes, workshops, events and celebrations, the JCC gives such individuals the means to gain Jewish knowledge and develop a Jewish identity.

The NCEJ grant helped the JDC expand and strengthen Judaism and Jewish life by funding programs that are welcoming to interested individuals and families in countries across Eastern Europe.

Conversion Program of Kehilat Birkat Shalom in Gezer, Israel

NCEJ has just funded a conversion program in Israel which offers a liberal, Progressive option for conversion. The program is promoted through the Birkat Shalom weekly e-newsletter and in the local newspaper. The program is also promoted through social media.

The program is geared towards making Judaism accessible and meaningful. NCEJ’s grant will result in greater outreach and options for those interested in conversion to Judaism.

Looking for Funding for Outreach and Conversion Programs?

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.

Featured photo above: from the JDC Outreach Programs in Eastern Europe.

Photo above right: from the Jewish Community Center in Riga. The JCC in Riga reaches out to the Jewish and non-Jewish community through attractive events and programs which make Jewish life accessible and welcoming for newcomers.

Photo above left: from the Jewish Community Center in Riga. The JCC Riga hosted a mini-Limmud conference of Jewish learning and culture. The image is of a Havdallah ceremony that was performed at the conference.

The post NCEJ International Grants Help People Explore Judaism appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

The goal of the evening was to reach people in their 20s and 30s who might not be comfortable in a traditional synagogue setting. Some of the activities, aside from the usual food, candle lighting, and dreidels, included an “Ask-the-Rabbi” booth, and an information station with printed literature about Judaism and a Judaism for Beginners class. In order to promote the event, Rabbi Patrick placed ads in Richmond’s alternative weekly (which has a reach of 79K readers) and on Facebook.

Rabbi Patrick wrote of the very successful event:

NCEJ’s grant will have a lasting impact and has enabled the Kehillah to:

• Begin planning a “Boot up” a Judaism 101 series which they are already promoting via social media.
• Create immediate interest from interfaith families in Jewish education for their children through their Family School (an innovative model of Jewish children’s education).
• Gain interest in conversion to Judaism, to the point that they had to add a page to their website to answer information.

A few quotes from the night:

“I’m not Jewish, but my wife is. It’s so nice to see things in this area that are open to me where I feel welcome.”

“I know I’m part Jewish, but don’t know what to do with that. This gets me interested.”

“I haven’t done anything Jewish for twelve years until now.”

Rabbi Patrick also writes: “No amount of words can express how wonderful our Hanukkah celebration was and the impact that NCEJ has now made in our lives.”

Chanukah in Carytown Photos

* Click to enlarge images.

Photos above courtesy of Kehillah RVA, Rabbi Patrick Beaulier, and celebrants. Thank you for sharing!

Have an idea for a program and need funding?

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

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Rabbi Alona Lisitsa

Rabbi Lisitsa began teaching her conversion course in May of 2014. The course has rolling admissions to allow candidates to join when they are able and then continue until they have covered all of the curriculum necessary to prepare them for conversion to Judaism. The enrollment of the classes varies between 15 and 40 students. At the moment, there are 20 adults and 4 children currently enrolled. Rabbi Lisitsa also offers separate lessons for children which are customized for their age.

Among the highlights from this year’s class is the story of Miriam, a descendant of conversos, one of an estimated 100 million descendants of Spanish and Portuguese Jews who were compelled to become Roman Catholic more than 500 years ago. Living in the Azores, Miriam owned a Torah scroll and other Judaica which she kept at her home. After a Jewish museum opened at the reconstructed synagogue at Ponte Delgada, Portugal, Miriam chose to donate the objects to the museum. As a member of the conversion class, Miriam was able to return to Judaism and become an active participant in the Jewish community.

New Projects Planned

The Jewish Progressive Federation of Spain has just been approved as a registered religious organization by the Spanish Ministry of Internal Affairs, which will allow Rabbi Lisitsa to plan numerous new projects. Among those is to create a series of Shabbatonim for empowering and educating lay leadership and prayer leaders.

Featured photo above: Rabbi Alona Lisitsa, Ph.D. (standing, second from left), a sponsoring rabbi for the conversion process for Iberia in the European Beit Din — featured in this Hebrew Union College article.  NCEJ is increasing its international presence with a grant to the World Union for Progressive Judaism to support conversion efforts in the Iberian Peninsula.  Photo of Rabbi Lisitsa, featured in The Times of Israel.

The post NCEJ Funds Conversion Programs in the Iberian Peninsula appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

The 36-week course is taught on a rotating basis by Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, and Orthodox rabbis, giving participants multiple perspectives. The average class size is 20-25 students. Each student is required to secure a rabbinic sponsor from one of the local congregations and meet the conversion requirements developed by his/her sponsor. Students gain an introduction to Judaism and a reading knowledge of Hebrew; participate in Shabbat, holiday, and ritual observances, and make connections with individual congregations and the larger community.

Post-Conversion Program

In 2018-2019, the Rabbinical Association for the first time is offering a post-conversion program to help new Jews-by-choice become more familiar with Jewish traditions and assist them in connecting with local congregations and the larger Jewish community. NCEJ is pleased to be supporting this innovative program.

For more information contact Annette Fish, Administrator/Program Director.

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