The Irving J. Fain Award seeks to honor URJ congregations that work to create a world filled with justice, compassion, and wholeness. Grounding their work in Jewish values, these congregations have created programs or initiatives that aim to:
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Galvanize the congregation and community around a social justice issue Stand with vulnerable populations in times of need
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Effect legislative change at the local or state level
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Develop leaders within the congregation
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Foster sacred and civil dialogue across lines of race, class, and faith
We’re looking for programs, initiatives and campaigns that are innovative, multi-generational, and replicable. Ideally, they will engage people using multiple types of activities, including: advocacy/community organizing; hands-on service; and educational programming.
We encourage congregations of all sizes to apply so that we can honor the diversity of creativity and engagement across our entire Movement.
Winning programs:
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Are replicable and can be lifted as models for other congregations to follow
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Demonstrate creativity
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Involve a sizeable portion of the congregation
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Are inclusive and encourage widespread engagement while fostering a culture of sacred dialogue
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Promote effective advocacy and/or community organizing work
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Build alliances with other community groups across lines of difference
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Teach the congregation about the Jewish values related to the program
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Educate the community regarding social issues in which the congregation is involved
