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VII. Conclusion
The
outreach programs of the Jewish Connection Partnership
are proof that when effectively organized, outreach
changes lives and connects people to Judaism. In communities
throughout North America, individuals and families that
had no prior connection to Jewish life are finding an
entry point, whether by learning Hebrew with their children,
celebrating holidays in public spaces, or joining discussion
groups with like-minded peers. The cycle of outreach is
an ongoing process, with one stage linking to the next
in an ever-widening path of Jewish affiliation. In many
cases, individuals participating in these programs previously
thought the Jewish community would not welcome them. But
as a recent study conducted by the Jewish Outreach Institute
shows, levels of Jewish affiliation increase as a direct
result of outreach programs. Considering that fully one-third
of American Jewish homes are intermarried, and perhaps
an equal amount unaffiliated, there is tremendous growth
potential for expanding the scope of outreach.
Indeed, programs of the Jewish Connection Partnership
can be seen ollectively as a blueprint for expanding outreach
across North America. By replicating initiatives with
proven track records and training outreach workers in
the stages of successful outreach, we can bring unaffiliated
and intermarried Jews into the fold of Jewish involvement.
In so doing, we will come one step closer to making the
North American Jewish community more inclusive, more vibrant,
and more responsive to the needs of all its members.
About the Jewish
Outreach Institute
The
Jewish Outreach Institute is an independent, national
organization that seeks to empower and assist the Jewish
community to welcome and fully embrace all members of
interfaith families-and all who seek to explore connections
to the Jewish heritage-into Jewish life through a variety
of programs and services.
JOI is a leader in the development of Jewish community-based
outreach programs that expand the boundaries of Jewish
inclusiveness, and plays a pivotal role in helping intermarried
families incorporate Judaism into the rhythm of their
lives. JOI also serves as a training institution and network
for outreach professionals. All of its programs are informed
by research and evaluation. JOI is the managing partner
of the Jewish Connection Partnership.
JCP
Partners
-The Helen Bader Foundation
-The Jacob and Hilda Blaustein Foundation
-Samuel Bronfman Foundation
-Rita and Harold Divine Foundation
-Walter and Elise Haas Fund
-The Jewish Community Endowment Fund of San Francisco
-The Samberg Family Foundation
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