Introduction
SVAJ stands out as a leader
within the community for its commitment to Social Action, but we can’t
do it without the help of all our members and guests.
The Social Action Committee seeks to provide the following to our congregation:
Objectives- To raise awareness in the congregation about social justice issues, homelessness, hunger, disability, poverty and illiteracy, and how we, as Jews, should provide assistance
- To involve congregants of ALL ages – adults, children and families – in doing good deeds and helping those less fortunate than ourselves.
- To inform people of the importance of individual and group action and to motivate congregants to advocate for social justice.
- To connect all social action activities at SVAJ to our Jewish roots and ethics.
- To establish partnerships with other congregations and groups in the community (both Jewish and non Jewish) to increase interfaith/interracial understanding and acceptance.
Projects
Currently we are;
- Collecting School Supplies for children in the Ark’s Sarnoff Levin Transitory Shelter
- Communicating information to our congregants through email and synagogue bulletins regarding issues requiring Social Action advocacy and support..
- The Rhea Seigal Kosher Food Pantry at The Ark feeds 1000's on a monthly basis, but prior to the holidays, their needs are even greater. Between July 15 and August 30, we are holding a Food Drive to help replenish the shelves. There is a list of acceptable foods and acceptable kosher certifications in the halls outside both sanctuaries. We know this sounds silly, PLEASE, purchase only the items on the acceptable items list and make sure the certifications are in compliance. Items without the listed acceptable certifications will be discarded by the ARK! If shopping is a hardship, we will be glad to do it for you if you send a check to the SVAJ Social Action Committee.
- Maot Chitim has asked for our help with their high holiday food packages. Packers are needed on Sunday, Aug. 22, from 2:45 - 3:45. On August 29, they are looking for help delivering beginning at 6:00 AM. Please contact via email Send Penny Cohn an email or 847-767-5124, if you are interested in helping.