Union for Reform Judaism / Social Action
Social Action
 
The Commission on Social Action of Reform Judaism assists congregations in establishing social action committees that will help them to apply ethical Judaic principles to contemporary issues. It oversees the work of Reform Judaism's Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC) in Washington, D.C. which pursues social justice and religious liberty by mobilizing the American Jewish community and serving as its advocate in the capital of the United States.

The Commission on Social Action and the Religious Action Center implement the policy positions of the Union for Reform Judaism and CCAR.

 

 
QUICK LINKS  
Featured Projects  

Apply now to join the CSA!

The Joint Commission on Social Action (CSA) of Reform Judaism is looking for a few good people. Do you know someone who is committed to social justice and would be interested in serving on one of the most vibrant, fascinating joint commissions of our Movement? If so, click here for membership criteria. Click here for the nominating form. The deadline for nominations is September 15, 2008.

 

Get out the Vote 2008 Guide
With a crucial election day only months away, now is the time to engage your congregation in voter registration drives and educate the community about critical isuses.

 

Nothing But Nets: Whats the Buzz?

A global campaign to save lives by preventing the spread of malaria throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Your $10 donation can save a life and make a difference. 

 

Just Congregations
Just Congregations Initiative engages synagogues in local congregation-based community organizing to build relationships and bring collective power to successfully combat injustice.

 

Reform Jewish Voice (RJV) of New York State
RJV promotes state legislation and governmental actions that address the root causes of social and economic injustice and advance religious tolerance and human dignity throughout New York.

 

K'HILAT TZEDEK: Creating a Community of Justice

Discussion guide to help congregations determine where social action fit into the scheme of congregational life. 

 

What's New?  

Roll up your sleeves in the Big Easy!
Check out our Gulf Coast volunteer website for resources including volunteer organizations, sample itineraries, stories from the field and more.  Congregation Volunteer Trip Grants Now Available!

HHealth Care for Allealth Care for All
"The time has long since passed when our leaders should have done what every other advanced country has somehow managed to do: provide all its citizens with essential health care." - Rabbi Yoffie's Call to Action at the 2007 Biennial.


Children of AbrahamChildren of Abraham: Jews and Muslims in Conversation
"In our increasingly interconnected and interdependent world, we can ill afford to segregate ourselves within our mosques and synagogues. Rather, we must educate ourselves and each other, thus taking a necessary first step toward global understanding and religious harmony." - Rabbi Yoffie's Call to Action at the 2007 Biennial.

Act Now for Darfur!
Check out our materials, program resources and divestment information for your congregation.

Support Sudanese Refugees in Israel
Over 2,000 refugees have fled to Israel seeking a safe haven from the violence in Darfur. These refugees have faced unimaginable horrors both in their home countries and in their dangerous journey to Israel. Keren B'Kavod is a project of the Israel Movement for Progressive Judaism that provides care packages to these refugees - including blankets, linens, toiletries, baby supplies, clothing and food. The cost per package is $75 USD. A second project, Israeli Roofs, helps underwrite the cost of housing for Sudanese refugees. It costs approximately $4,000 to provide two families shelter for three months. Click here to find out how YOU can get involved.

Spotlight on Social Action!  

Adopt a US Serviceperson

"The Union resolves to commend our service women and men (and their families) who have answered duty's call and served our nation honorably... and who have earned our respect and gratitude and that of the American people..." - 2005 Resolution on the War in Iraq


Taking a cue Temple Solel of Cardiff by the Sea, CA, the 2007 Union for Reform Judaism Biennial Conference engaged delegates through a hands-on service project, Adopt a US Serviceperson. This project offers supportive Americans the opportunity to express our gratitude and encouragement to our deployed troops. Delegates were encouraged to pack care packages, write letters of encouragement and send warm wishes to US military personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Throughout the five day conference, dozens of individuals brought in donated goods, packed boxes, and made contributions totaling $2,375! Check out ways to get your community involved in Adopt a US Serviceperson today.

Read about our other Spotlight on Social Action! projects here.

Photo - The Adopt a US Serviceperson Booth
The Adopt a US Serviceperson Booth (1 of 8)


Commission on Social Action of Reform Judaism
633 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017-6778
(212) 650-4160 fax 212.650.4229
csarj@urj.org