Hands-on Learning Helps Interfaith / Intercultural Families Connect to 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.
Innovative Idea
Incorporating Mentorship: The synagogue has an established conversion mentorship program. The rabbi plans to mention it to Makerspace participants who might be interested in additional educational opportunities.
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.
Learn More About Our Grants for Holiday Programming!
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. Learn more on our Holiday Page.
We fund marketing, program materials, security, and some staff support. Program materials include arts and crafts supplies, handouts, and related items. We also partially reimburse for the costs of holiday celebration kits, to enrich participants’ educational experience and strengthen connections to the sponsoring organization. See our Program Kit Page.
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.
Apply Now For Holiday Programming!
We fund Intro, interfaith engagement, and holiday programs that welcome new people to Judaism. To learn more about NCEJ and the type of programs we fund, see our newly updated About Us page.
We accept applications throughout the year, and notify applicants within 45 days. To learn more, go to our Grant Process page.
Have a question about whether we will fund a particular program? Reach out to us at 301-802-4254, or email NCEJ. We welcome inquiries. Thinking about offering a program that would be a follow-up to a Judaism 101 class? Give us a call. We are looking to increase our funding in this area.
Last year almost 1/3 of the groups we funded were first-time grantees, and we have given grants in over a dozen countries.
To be notified of the latest grant updates sign up for our grant news.
Top photo courtesy of Hillel Minsk.