Koret Program at Shir Hadash

The Koret Synagogue Initiative (KSI) was launched in 1994 as a way of demonstrating that synagogues can play a critical role in the revitalization of Jewish life in America primarily through the role of a program director within the synagogue. This year, Congregation Shir Hadash was fortunate enough to receive such a grant. The grant is for three years and is generously funded by Koret, the Jewish Federation of Greater San Jose, and Congregation Shir Hadash.

Shari Saul is the Koret Program Director at the Synagogue. The Connectedness Committee, chaired by Vicky Deggs, works closely with the Koret Program Director to implement programs to enhance the nature of the grant. The groups that will be targeted include marginally affiliated Temple members and those in the Jewish community who are not synagogue affiliated. Programming will be developed and implemented to find, reach out, and draw the target population into the community of Shir Hadash.

Groups that have evolved as a direct result of the grant include a support group for unemployed/underemployed members of the congregation and a support group for members dealing with loss. The Koret Program Director works with the Havurah coordinator to see to it that all members who are interested in a Havurah have the opportunity to be involved. Working with the Junior Youth Group (JYG) and inreach to new members of the congregation are also the responsibility of the Program Director.

The Koret Foundation supports organizations and initiatives in the San Francisco Bay Area and in Israel that advance economic opportunity, individual freedom, personal initiative, and entrepreneurial values. It provides the means for organizations to educate people to help themselves. The Foundation helps to develop and enhance vibrant and thriving communities in the San Francisco Bay Area and Israel. It also helps to support and sustain the Jewish community in the San Francisco Bay Area.

If you are interested in finding out more about the Koret Grant, joining the Connectedness Committee or getting involved in some other capacity, please contact Shari Saul, , 358-1751 x114.