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The Synagogue/Federation Commission of Metropolitan Chicago

Syn-Fed Logo

Dedicated to enhancing the vitality of Jewish life in metropolitan Chicago by nurturing collaboration across the community and strengthening from within synagogues, agencies and Federation partnerships.

The Synagogue/Federation Commission is a collaboration of the following organizations:

  • Jewish Reconstructionist Federation
  • Orthodox Council of Synagogues
  • Union for Reform Judaism-Chicago Federation
  • United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism-Midwest Region
  • Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago

The Synagogue/Federation seeks to generate new ideas and increase collaboration to further engage Jews throughout our community in synagogue life and community building.

Our multi-year Institute of workshops and seminars seeks to enhance the knowledge, skills and experience of congregational professional and lay leadership.  The Institute includes a two-year rotation of approximately 14 workshop topics, led by leading experts in financial resource development and management, membership, strategic planning and leadership development. 

Each 2-3 hour program is designed for current or potential synagogue leaders.  These workshops include:  hands-on experiences; opportunities for dialogue with other congregational representatives; and take-home resource materials.

The schedule and specific workshops will be modified to reflect the interest and changing needs of the synagogue community.

Upcoming Events

"Connecting To Our Caring, Jewish Community"

Sunday, May 17, 2009
Registration and information tables – 1:00 pm
Program - 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm

Congregation Beth Am
225 North McHenry Rd, Buffalo Grove
 
This program, presented by the Synagogue Federation Commission of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, will provide resources and practical tips to community members during these challenging times. This is a unique opportunity to connect with the Jewish Federation affiliated agencies. Limited free childcare provided by reservation only.

Choose two breakout sessions to attend:

  • How to Find a Job and Stay Motivated in a Tough Market (Jewish Vocational Service)
    Effective, targeted strategies are important to compete in the current economic marketplace.  Staying energized, motivated and focused can help you stay in and ahead of the game.  Join us to learn ways to increase the effectiveness of your job search.
  • It's Your Turn - Benefits and Resources for Older Adults (CJE SeniorLife)
     A review of the benefits and programs for anyone age 55+ and tips on how to access them.
  • Managing Debt in an Uncertain Economy (Jewish Child and Family Services)
    Tips on managing debt, exploring options to bankruptcy or foreclosure, and gathering resources for further assistance.  Guest presenter, Norm Kurtz, an attorney in private practice with over 30 years experience, specializing in real estate, estate planning and family law. 
  • Talking to Kids about Tough Times (Jewish Child and Family Services)
    Explore approaches to framing this topic with children of varying ages, tips for how to talk with children, and ideas of thinking about ways that all family members can participate in the family’s well-being.
  • Taking Control of Your Stress (Jewish Child and Family Services)
    During tough times, we often get overwhelmed by the situation and let our stress control us.  Think about how stress affects you and learn tools to take control of your stress. 

Free and open to the community. There is no cost to attend, but reservations are required by May 14.

Please consider a donation of non-perishable food for Congregation Beth Am’s food pantry. They are especially in need of nutritious canned goods (beans, vegetables, peanut butter) or boxed goods (rice, pasta and other staples).

Register online, or for more information, call (312) 357-4864 or e-mail SynFed@juf.org.