About J Leaders
Why J Leaders?
J Leaders empowers Jewish young adults to become ethical, skilled leaders who illuminate the path to a vibrant Jewish community and a more just world. We achieve this vision by fostering transformative leadership development and fostering a network of passionate young adults in partnership with mission-aligned community-based organizations.
The Problem We’re Solving
“…. Only one in eight (Jewish young adults) report feeling very connected. For many, a yawning gap exists between current levels of Jewish engagement and their professed desire for a Jewish community or a rekindling of positive past Jewish experience.”
Jim Joseph Foundation Study “Unlocking the Future of Jewish Engagement”
J Leaders is Committed To...
Leadership Development Illuminated by Jewish Wisdom
Judaism is multidimensional. It is sometimes described as a civilization, combining religion, culture, ethnicity, peoplehood, nationality, a value system and a way of life. Judaism embraces the totality of diverse Jewish beliefs and practices. However you define and express your Jewish identity, we welcome you to become a part of J Leaders. Jewish wisdom and culture are woven into the fabric of the entire Leadership Academy experience. Core to this vision is the importance of empowering today’s generation of Jewish young adults to be prepared to step-up as value-driven leaders in the community today and in the future. For More
Commitment to an Inclusive Environment
J Leaders is committed to an an equitable and inclusive environment where all stakeholders – fellows, faculty, staff, board members, participants, partners and donors – feel a sense of belonging regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or identity, Jewish denomination, national origin, disability, language, political affiliation, socio-economic status, or any other bias. We understand that success in this work demands attention to addressing systemic exclusion operating in both the Jewish community and the larger secular community. We know that honoring these differences lead to unique ways of thinking and approaching challenges—something we truly value as an inclusive community of leaders.
The Value of Partnerships
J Leaders is committed to empowering and engaging Jewish young adults through collaborative partnerships with other Jewish organizations. Working together towards our common vision, we can deliver stronger and better programs, better services, and increased organizational efficiency and effectiveness. In the end, win-win partnerships help us reach and more profoundly impact more Jewish young adults. We enthusiastically embrace and welcome organizational collaboration. Please reach out to us about ways we can work together.
Giving Back (Tikkun Olam)
When we give back to others, we not only help to help to repair the world, but we bring to our own lives increased meaning. A core component of the Leadership Academy is small group community engagement projects. Community projects provide Academy fellows the opportunity to collaborate with local Jewish community organizations on projects of benefit to the organization and the larger Jewish community.