Synagogue Initiatives
Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ is committed to partnering with synagogues to create vibrant Jewish life in our community.
The Synagogue Leadership Council works to strengthen our local synagogue community and its relationship with Federation so that we can work together in pursuit of our shared goals. The Council advises Federation on many programs that benefit synagogues. It is chaired by Larry Rein and is comprised of synagogue leaders representing all denominations and geographic areas of Greater MetroWest.
Many of Federation’s programs and professionals are available as resources to help synagogues in their sacred work. They are listed here with links to more information. Resources for your synagogue members are also summarized below.
All of Federation’s programs and services are made possible by funds raised through the UJA Annual Campaign.
* These programs offer periodic grants to synagogues for special purposes.
Synagogue Leadership Seminars and Networking
Sarah Segal, Manager of Synagogue Initiatives
Security and Safety - Community Security Initiative *
Robert Wilson, Chief Security Officer
Jewish Community Foundation of Greater MetroWest
Legacy Planning
Endowment Fund Management
Innovation Grants *
Synagogue Directory
Community Calendar / JFamily Calendar
Bit of Torah Videos by Clergy
We also encourage synagogues to be in touch with the New Jersey Jewish News (NJJN). Please note that the NJJN is published by the Jewish Week Media Group and has no formal relationship with Jewish Federation.
Inclusion, disability and mental health awareness * – Greater MetroWest ABLE
Rebecca Wanatick, Community Inclusion Manager
Senior Programs and Chesed (Caring) Support
Cecille Asekoff, Joint Chaplaincy Director
Marian Marlowe, CARES Manager
Civic Engagement and Public Advocacy – Community Relations Committee
Linda Scherzer, Director
Teen Learning, Leadership and Service Opportunities
JTeen Programs: Yoni Glatt and Avi Remetz
Diller Teen Coordinator: Scott Kalmikoff
Holocaust Education and Commemoration
Holocaust Council: Ilyse Shainbrown and Jamie Carus
Israel Engagement and Education *
Teenage emissaries / “Rishonim”
Community Shlichim: Amit Stern and Shiri Mass
Federation Partner Agencies
Federation’s 23 local and four overseas partners provide valuable programs and services to the local and global Jewish community. Federation staff are available to help synagogues connect with these organizations for speakers, community service opportunities, missions, trips and more.
Adults 60+ and Eldercare
Marian Marlowe, CARES Coordinator
Jewish Summer Camp – information, grants and scholarships
Tracy Levine, Director
PJ Library – books and resources for young families
Andrea Bergman, Director
Day Schools – information and tuition assistance
Rebecca Hindin, Director
Hands-on Volunteer Opportunities
Lindsay Norman, Associate
Donor Advised Funds – charitable giving
Contact: Beverly Kestenbaum
CONTACTSarah Segal, Manager of Synagogue Initiatives |