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Social Justice

How Can I Make a Difference?

You are not required to complete the work, but neither are you at liberty to abstain from it. (Pirkei Avot 2:21)


It is easy to feel powerless given all that is broken in our world. But we believe that each person can and
should make a difference. Temple Israel offers a variety of ways to help you make a difference in the
lives of others, whether you have hours to give or just minutes. See below for some of the opportunities we offer.

helping those in need

  • Support a coalition of community and interfaith groups by working with Open Arms for Refugees.
    Contact Laurel Cates.

    Midnight Run with Brotherhood – Collect items of clothing for those who are homeless in New York City; Volunteer to help with a scheduled run. Contact Brotherhood to sign up or for more information.

  • Help our immigrant neighbors- Work with local clergy and volunteers to learn how to support those who are seeking to lawfully remain in our community. Contact Rabbi Jaech for more information.
  • Provide a meal for homeless guests- As part of a broader coalition of houses of worship, TINW opens its doors to house homeless individuals overnight for two weeks every winter. Sign up to prepare and drop off a meal for our guests. Contact robin@tinw.org
  • Help members of our community who are recovering from injury or suffering with illness by providing meals and/or transportation. Contact the Caring Committee Cherie Marcus

advocacy

  • Religious Action Center/New York – Each year TINW will join members of Reform Jewish congregations across New York state to identify and advocate for legislation that reflects our Jewish values and our passion for social justice.  Contact Rabbi Jaech to get involved in this ongoing effort.
  • Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism – Offers a variety of advocacy opportunities on the federal level. Sign up to receive action alerts on issues that are important to you, such as immigration/refugees, reproductive rights, anti-bigotry/racism initiatives and protecting the environment. Visit their webpage: Religious Action Center
  • Can’t find the right opportunity for you? Feel free to contact Rabbi Jaech for assistance.

Green Light NY project

TINW worked with the New York Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, RAC-NY, a network of over 30 congregations across the state, to support state legislation that is socially just and reflective of Jewish values.  Learn more here.

Sat, February 4 2023 13 Sh'vat 5783