Klal Yisrael is the sense of community amongst the world’s Jews. Here at home, CRS’s Israel Committee has been dedicated to strengthening our Congregation’s understanding of and relationship with Israel. Through congregational trips, Shabbat dinners, speakers, films, special events, participation in the annual Celebrate Israel Parade, and voting in the World Zionist Congress elections, there is a strong bond built. A major Committee endeavor is the support of organizations in Israel. We not only strengthen them and our relationship with them but more importantly, we contribute to the overall strengthening of Jewish life and, in particular, Reform Jewish life in Israel.
The Israel Committee chooses two organizations or projects in Israel to receive donations from the CRS community, one within the Reform movement in Israel and one more broadly focused. Each year, the selection process alternates so that, in effect, each project receives two years of support. In addition to being asked to contribute, congregants are invited to participate in the process.
ISRAEL COMMITTEE SELECTS NEW PROJECTS
Beit Ruth for Young Women and Girls At Risk’s mission is to break the cycle of domestic violence in Israel by addressing the critical needs of at-risk and vulnerable girls. A long-term therapeutic residence and school, girls aged 13-18 have the opportunity to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. Programs foster trust, self-confidence and self-esteem, teamwork, leadership, and community.
The Israel Committee has chosen to support their Animal-Assisted Therapy Program, which helps to re-build trust after a history of chronic abuse. Working with rescue dogs, horses, and other animals, these girls gain the ability to try new activities within a safe, encouraging, and controlled environment.
“We appreciate the commitment of Congregation Rodeph Sholom that helps to provide girls at-risk who are frightened and in the midst of trauma, a home, a school, and a nurturing place to breathe, to heal, to trust, and to dream. Our gratitude for your commitment, as well as your confidence in our ability to provide lifesaving and life-changing care and education to girls who are suffering from trauma, is immeasurable.”
During this pandemic, Beit Ruth was able to face a challenging situation effectively by remaining open to continue their education program and creating virtual programs, webinars, and projects. With messages of concern from our Israel Committee, CRS has been able to continue to be a devoted partner, as well as an encouraging and supportive friend.
Jewish Renewal among Russian Speaking Israelis. This project, sponsored by the Reform Movement in Israel, focuses on immigrants from the former Soviet Union who wish to reconnect with their Jewish identity in their native tongue in a welcoming community that acknowledges their Jewishness. Three Reform congregations have been established for Russian speakers in the northern, central and southern regions of Israel. The program impacts 600 members each year and about 2,000 more people indirectly. In addition, this project promotes young leadership and provides legal aid.
HOW TO HELP
This is how you can help fund these two very worthy organizations*:
Make your donation online here and be sure to select Israel Mitzvah Projects under Fund/Program 1.
Please mail a check to the temple office at 7 West 83rd St., NY, NY 10024, made payable to Congregation Rodeph Sholom and write Israel Mitzvah Projects in the memo line.
(* A member of the Israel Committee has agreed to match the first $5,000 of contributions!)
Interested in joining? Or learning more?
To contact the Israel Committee, click here.
