JERUSALEM (Press Release)– The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism’s Israel Commission and Nefesh B’Nefesh – which works in close cooperation with the Jewish Agency – are pleased to announce the continuation of their joint Ma’alot program for a third year. Following the runaway success of the program over the past two years in deepening the connection between Conservative communities and Israel and enhancing Aliyah awareness, the program, called Ma’alot – Taking Steps Toward Raising Israel Awareness, will run for a third year in 2011-2012.
This initiative, which has strengthened the partnership between Nefesh B’Nefesh and United Synagogue, worked with 10 innovative pilot synagogue programs from three regions in its first year. Following the success of these programs, the project received a boost in 2010-2011 when 76 applications were submitted from synagogues across North America; 26 of them were chosen.
The program empowers Conservative movement leaders to increase the profile of Israel within their congregations, as well as to make congregants more aware of the possibility of making Aliyah. As in previous years, communities are invited to submit proposals for a grant to help develop programs that incorporate Israel and Zionist education and present aliyah as a realistic option for Conservative Jews.
For 2011-2012, submissions may take the form of either new programs or added elements to existing programs that ran in previous years. To apply, go to www.nbn.org.il/maalot. The deadline for applications is February 25, 2011.
“We have a great partnership with Nefesh B’Nefesh,” said Rabbi Steven Wernick, United Synagogue’s CEO. “Nefesh B’Nefesh is a dynamic, incredibly well-run organization, and our partnership has seen some really wonderful, innovative activities and programming. We look forward to continuing increase awareness of Israel and commitment to it within our kehillot.”
“The enormous success of this program proves how integral Israel and Aliyah awareness are among members of the Conservative movement” said Tony Gelbart, co-founder and chairman of Nefesh B’Nefesh. “We are honored to continue partnering with United Synagogue on this exciting program, and helping raise the profile of Israel and Aliyah among Conservative Jews.”
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Preceding provided by Nefesh b’Nefesh