Shir Hadash in the World
our ADVOCACY
We're passionate about changing the world through individual and communal acts of gemilut chasadim (loving kindness), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and shomrei adamah (guarding the earth). "You are not required to complete the work of tikkun olam (repairing the world), but neither can you desist from it." -Pirkei Avot
TZEDEK NEWSLETTER
Shir Hadash is excited to launch Tzedek, a monthly newsletter highlighting social justice opportunities and perspectives. To receive Tzedek on a monthly basis, please email Cayla@shirhadash.org to be added to the mailing list.
Hear from Rabbi Rafi on the vision for Tzedek.
"In hopes of building community within Shir Hadash — and throughout the South Bay — the monthly Tzedek newsletter features a selection of social action and social justice opportunities in the Bay Area. I invite you to peruse through and see some of the exciting things going on in our region and, if an event catches your eyes, invite a fellow Shir Hadash-nik to join you in your pursuit of tikkun olam - the Jewish responsibility to repair the world."
SOCIAL JUSTICE AND COMMUNITY SUpPORT OPPORTUNITIES AT SHIR HADASH AND BEYOND
- Monthly - JFS Silicon Valley Monthly Food Pantry: Support JFS Silicon Valley's monthly food pantry helping individuals and families in the community facing food insecurity. Download the flier here
- Now Through December 7 - JFS Silicon Valley Embrace-A-Family: Bring joy and cheer this holiday season by signing up for one or more dreidel wishes to donate to local families in need. Sign up here!
- Thursday, Nov 20, 10am - The 39th World Zionist Congress: How We Turned Your Vote Into Impact: Now that the Congress is officially closed, please join us on Zoom to engage, hear what happened, learn about the huge impact you all made - and hear about next steps to keep working toward our goals! Register here.
- Thursday, Nov 20, 6pm - Transgender Day of Remembrance: Join us as we honor and remember the lives of transgender and gender-diverse individuals lost to violence. This day is a time for reflection, solidarity, and community healing. All are welcome to gather, remember, and stand together in support. Learn more.
- Thursday, Nov 20, 7pm - Los Gatos Interfaith Thanksgiving Service: Join Rabbi Rafi, Cantor Devorah, and faith communities across the area participating together at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Los Gatos. This year our communal service project will be to gather donations for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Learn more
SUSTAINABILITY AT SHIR HADASH
At Shir Hadash, social responsibility, tikkun olam and caring for the earth has long been part of who we are. Our community believes sustainability is both a Jewish and a moral responsibility.
Here’s a snapshot of what we’ve accomplished together:
- Solar Power Leadership: First synagogue in California to install panels (2002) and expanded systems in 2018 and 2025—now covering all our electricity needs.
- National Climate Commitment: Early member of the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition (2022).
- Energy & Efficiency Upgrades: Plans underway for electric heat pumps, LED lighting, and gas-to-electric appliance replacements.
- Water Wise: Low-flow plumbing, smart irrigation, and more native, drought-tolerant plants.
- Sustainable Eating: “Vegetarian first” meals, smaller meat portions, and reduced food waste at community events.
- Values-Based Investing: Eliminated fossil fuel holdings from our investment portfolio.
- Education & Action: Workshops on composting, plastic reduction, water conservation, and more through our Green Team.