Open more doors into Jewish life
Give Jews who feel far from Judaism simple, low-pressure ways to reconnect. Then introduce them to the synagogues, Jewish organizations and pro-Israel groups that already do this work well.
Creating connections to Jewish faith, culture and community
The Jewish Institute is a nonprofit that builds places, in person and online, where people can spend time with Jewish tradition at their own pace. We help Jews strengthen their ties to the faith, and we make sure Jewish voices and perspectives reach the people around them.
Why this work matters
38%
Of American Jews say they have become more engaged in Jewish life since October 7
Jewish Federations of North America, 202667%
Of American Jews would like to be more connected to the Jewish community where they live
Jewish Federations of North America, 202445%
Of Jewish adults ages 22 to 40 who regularly do something Jewish say they take part only informally, at home or with friends
Jim Joseph Foundation, Project Prism, 2026About
Our vision
Millions of Jews don't feel as close to their faith as they could. We want every one of them to have a real chance to find their way into Jewish life, including a lasting bond with the Jewish people and with Israel. We also want non-Jews to understand Jewish perspectives better.
Mission
Our goals
The Jewish Institute's mission is to build Jewish pride and connection among Jews, and understanding among non-Jews. Most people who feel distant from Judaism won't walk into a synagogue on their own. We start with easier first steps.
Welcome our neighbors in
Invite non-Jews to share a meal or a conversation with Jewish neighbors. Personal relationships build understanding of Jewish religion, culture and history, and of Israel. They also keep Jewish voices present in daily life.
To combat antisemitism, support Israel, and make sure the next generation has strong ties to Jewish religion and culture, we must build Jewish pride.
Our values
What Judaism offers
For thousands of years, Judaism has been a guide for living well alongside other people. You can see it at a Friday night dinner table, at a wedding under the chuppah, and in the way a community shows up for a family in mourning. Three ideas from the tradition shape our work.
Hachnasat orchim
Welcoming the guest
A midrash teaches that Abraham kept his tent open on all four sides so travelers could find the entrance from any direction. We want our spaces to work the same way. Nobody should have to prove they belong before they walk in.
Kehillah
Community
Several central Jewish prayers require a minyan of ten. Judaism was built to be lived with other people, and showing up for them counts as a religious act.
Shabbat
Rest and the table
Once a week, Jewish tradition asks people to stop working and share a meal with those they care about. The Sabbath appears in the Ten Commandments, and anyone can try it this Friday night.
I am proud, simply, to be a Jew.
Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, former Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom, from "Why I Am a Jew" in A Letter in the Scroll
Contact
Talk with us
Thank you for learning about our work. If you have questions, we would like to hear from you.
hello@jewishinstitute.org