Synagogue Connections
Take a look at our brochure to learn more about JUF/Federation and partner agency programs that can benefit your congregation.
The Synagogue Federation Commission seeks to generate new ideas and increase collaboration to further engage Jews throughout our community in synagogue life and community building.
Inclusion of People with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities
The Synagogue Federation Commission is embarking on a year-long collaborative effort to support synagogues in building communities that better include people with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Through a partnership with JCFS' Encompass, a program administered by Jewish Child & Family Services (JCFS), and with funding from the JUF Breakthrough Fund, we are conducting outreach, research and planning in order to answer key questions about opportunities and barriers to participation in synagogue communities for individuals with disabilities and their families. The goal is to develop tools and strategies to identify the resources, mechanisms and structures our congregations need to facilitate inclusion. (Read more about the JUF Breakthrough Fund here.)
On October 20, 2015 the Synagogue Federation Commission hosted "Build Me a House for All People: A Community Conversation About Inclusion." The featured guests were Jay and Shira Ruderman from the Ruderman Family Foundation which supports inclusion efforts in the Jewish community. There were opportunities for synagogue professionals and lay leaders to learn and share their knowledge and experience. Watch the beginning of the program here.
Computer Training for the Synagogue and Day School Community
For a limited time, The Synagogue Federation Commission is offering highly discounted computer training classes for people (professional and lay) who hold positions within synagogues and Jewish day schools that will utilize these skills for their community-based work. Each class is available for $15 per person. All classes are held at the Jewish United Fund/ Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago building, 30 S. Wells Street, Chicago. Class size is limited and will resume in January 2016. Visit this link for more information on the type of classes being offered and to register.
"Shimon [the son of Rabban Gamliel] says: It is not what one says, but rather what one does, that makes all the difference in the world."
Locate Synagogue
Looking for a specific Synagogue or Congregation in the Chicagoland area? Locate one by geographical location or denomination type using this helpful Locate a Congregation page (or click on the image above).
Jewish World News
- Trump names former Abraham Accords negotiator as top hostages official
- The Other Israel Film Festival, spotlighting ‘marginalized voices’ in the country, is back in NYC this year with a hopeful message
- Chuck Schumer reelected head of Senate Democrats — but this time as minority leader
- Trump picks Jewish space adventurer Jared Isaacman to head NASA
