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.

“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 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.

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.

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.

The post Rabbinical Association of Greater Kansas City Collaborates on Conversion Class appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.

• A post-conversion program
• Introduction to Judaism for Spanish speakers
• Interfaith outreach initiatives
• PJ Library subscriber get-togethers
• Expand the Circle discussion groups
• Family to family connections

* For grants up to $5,000, NCEJ will award a 20% additional bonus on applications received before December 31, 2018, once approved by the foundation.

Apply today for an NCEJ Grant — tell your friends in the field, too. Simply fill out our short two-page grant application: Download Application. See a special mention of our funding bonus in eJewish Philanthropy.

Sign up for grant news to get ideas for how you can promote Judaism in your community and learn more about all the innovative programs NCEJ supports.

Recent Grant Highlights & Updates:

Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis

The Indianapolis Federation recently advertised its innovative programming, supported by NCEJ. Each program was featured in the latest JFGI Connections magazine resulting in strong community interest and registrations. View a digital copy of the magazine here, where you can find the feature about Taste of Hebrew on page 13 and Finding Your Place in B’nai Mitzvah on page 15. Program descriptions can also be found below:

Program: “A Taste of Hebrew”

A Taste of Hebrew is designed to teach Hebrew decoding skills to both Jews and non-Jews who cannot read Hebrew, with a focus on parents of children who are in the process of learning Hebrew. The class is intentionally designed only as a very basic introduction to Hebrew in order to make it easily accessible and open to everyone. Learn More

View Program Flyer

Program: “Finding Your Place in B’nai Mitzvah”

Finding Your Place in B’nai Mitzvah, aims to create a place for non-Jewish parents to deepen their understanding of b’nai mitzvah and feel supported as their children go through this important life-cycle event. Special outreach to interfaith families who are currently synagogue members along with unaffiliated interfaith families who may be seeking b’nai mitzvah outside the organized Jewish community will be made to identify participants for this seminar. Learn More

View Program Flyer

Grant News

Many other groups throughout the country are developing new approaches to welcome individuals, couples, and families who want to become part of the Jewish community. Here are a few examples:

Congregation Bnai Amoona, St Louis was awarded a marketing grant for its Introduction to Judaism class. Last year Bnai Amoona received a NCEJ advertising grant through the Rabbinic Assembly. It has offered a wide range of courses for newcomers to Judaism for many years.

The Rabbinical Association of Greater Kansas City just received a grant for a post-conversion program that will provide support to new Jews by choice. This is in addition to the grant they receive every year to promote their introduction to Judaism class.

JCC of Pittsburgh received another grant to promote a series of family holiday camps, following up on the success of last year’s Chanukah and Passover programs which attracted over 200 participants.

Temple Aliyah, a Conservative synagogue in Needham, MA is a first-time NCEJ grantee for a program entitled “Exploring the Joys of Shabbat, Purim, and Pesach through Jewish Food”.

Have an idea?

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

The post NCEJ Announces Bonus for Applications Received by December 31 appeared first on National Center to Encourage Judaism.