Synagogue Initiative Resources

The OU Women’s Initiative is excited to host a unique summer learning opportunity for the women in your synagogue: ALIT Virtual Summer Beit Midrash program will take place from July 29th to August 8th. We have an excellent lineup of educators. Registering as an ALIT participating synagogue provides you the opportunity for you to host high-level women’s learning in a cost-effective way with minimal work on your end. Women can join from their homes or gather in one location to watch the classes together. Become an ALIT Participating Synagogue: Register as a participating synagogue by July 1. Receive a coupon code that will entitle the women of your synagogue to register for one or all six courses for free once registration opens to the public. Receive an editable flyer to easily advertise to your congregants. Be listed as a participating synagogue on our website. The price per synagogue is $800 for access to all six courses (24 shiurim total). Click the image to register your shul or email shachara@ou.org with questions.

Based on historical events, Talmudic aggardot, and the accounts fo Josephus Flavius, LEGEND OF DESTRUCTION depicts how the fangers of greed, social injustice, corruption, polarization, political hubris, and religious fanaticism in the name of G-d led to the destruction of the Second Beit HaMikdash, changing the destiny of the Jewish people forever. Click the image to register for a screening or reach out to eunice@7thart.com or +1 (323) 259- 8259 for more information.

Tefillin Awareness Project experts will examine, and if necessary, adjust and correct, the placement and external parts of the Tefillin. At the end of Shacharis, a member of the Tefillin Awareness staff addresses the congregants for a few moments. He explains the reason for the event, and urges them to take advantage of this no-cost, wonderful opportunity. After Shacharis, the Sofrim meticulously inspect and rectify on the spot any of the up to 20 potential issues with Tefillin placement and external conditions. Our program is offered at no cost to the participant (with the exception of any additional, extensive, necessary external repairs). However, we rely on the generosity of the host Shuls and Yeshivas to contribute towards the expenses associated with hosting and compensating our professional Sofrim. Email: ymnakdimen@gmail.com

Discover the extraordinary journey of Dr. Yehuda Sabiner, a beacon of courage and compassion in Israeli society. From the heart of Hassidism to the forefront of pediatric care at Schneider Children’s Medical Center, Dr. Sabiner's story is one of resilience and dedication. Raised in the insular Gerer Hassidic community, he embarked on a remarkable path, overcoming educational challenges in his twenties to realize his dream of becoming Israel's first Hassidic medical school graduate. As a captain in the IDF reserve, Dr. Sabiner has served on the front lines, providing vital medical support during critical moments. His commitment extends beyond medicine—he actively promotes the integration of ultra-Orthodox graduates into Israel's security, medical, and industrial sectors. Dr. Sabiner is also a devoted father of four, including a daughter with special needs, which further fuels his passion for advancing medical research and care for children with special needs. In a captivating lecture tailored for your community, Dr. Sabiner shares his personal journey with warmth and insight. Prepare to be moved as he recounts his challenges and triumphs, offering a message of hope and unity amidst adversity. To book Dr. Sabiner, use this email ysabiner@gmail.com or contact his secretary via WhatsApp: +972-58-411-0662

May it be the will of our Father in Heaven, who redeemed the nation of Israel from suffering in Egypt, that He bless and protect our brothers and sisters in captivity. May You stregthen their soul and their faith. Protect them from all harm and sickness. Have mercy on Your sons and daughters who are waiting for Your salvation. Annul any bad decrees against them, and in Your great mercy, bring their release. May they go out from darkness to light and from the pit of bondage to freedom. May they return in peace to their families and their homes. Please instill brotherhood, peace and love in the hearts of all of us. Remove jealousy, baseless hatred from us and spread the succah of peace over us, and may we merit soon to sing before you a new song.

Planning a trip to Israel? Whether for a small group or your whole community, connect with Hiburim for direct opportunities to assist with agricultural projects and visit and support yeshiva students and families in Israel. For more information, reach out to Rabbi Shmulie Greene via email at shmulie60@gmail.com or phone 973-214-8577.

Like a mystery shopper, but for your shul! Get an outside perspective on how to make your community more inviting, engaging, and robust. Email posya@ou.org to learn more and schedule an anonymous visit to your community!

"The 10 Commandments of Shul Boards" is an interactive seminar to help Shul Boards achieve their potential by defining roles, sharing best practices, and facilitating a conversation around roles and goals for the board and Shul. Topics include: Lay Leader & Paid Staff Dynamic ; Articulating Values ; Strategy vs. Operations ; Governance. The presentation is tailored to address your shul's most pressing issues. Email posya@ou.org to schedule a seminar at your shul.

Check out our site to explore the impact we've made so far. Email katze@ou.org to plan your own!

The OU's parenting initiative, GenAleph, provides parents with resources that are easily accessible, data driven, and relatable for Orthodox families. From a weekly podcast to in-person parenting courses to online learning, articles and more, GenAleph is your resource to raise the next generation of passionate and committed Jews. The Jews Next Dor podcast will help you answer your biggest parenting questions and gain the best practices to raise children the way you want.

Click to hear Yachad representatives and shul community members share personal experiences to discuss the importance of including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community. To schedule a sensitivity training at your shul, email schragr@ou.org.

Email grossmanj@ou.org to see how our Advocacy team can help you navigate federal grants, reach your local representatives, and join our advocacy-minded Rabbinical network.

Crayola Flowers is an innovative and creative fundraiser. Explore how your shul can raise money year-round and at specific events!

A new group is developing plots for purchase on Har Hamenuchot and Har Hazeitim. Click to learn more.

In "Judaism in the 21st Century," Rabbi Daniel Cohen and Steve Labkoff explore modern life, guided by Jewish insights. The podcast draws on Torah wisdom to address today's challenges and navigate our complex world. Click to listen on Spotify.

Ematai offers halachic guidance on a range of issues relating to aging and end-of-life care, including a new halachic living will. Visit the site for many resources and services.

Our Partners at NJOP have created a grant program to support Shuls with explanatory programming. Monetary stipends and additional resources are available.

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Join our WhatsApp group connecting Shul Admin and Executive Directors