The Jewish Outreach Institute Program Description

About Us

The Jewish Outreach Institute (JOI) is the only national transdenominational Jewish organization dedicated to serving the needs of unaffiliated Jews, with a particular emphasis on intermarried couples and their children. Initially founded as a research organization in 1988 at the City University of New York, JOI has expanded to include four cornerstones: direct program service, the training of Jewish communal professionals, research, and advocacy for an inclusive Jewish community. Rabbi Kerry Olitzky serves as executive director and works with the staff of seven: an assistant executive director, research director, director of professional training, program officer, public relations associate, database manager, and office manager.

Target Students

We are looking for students who are interested in an experience working with those on the periphery of the Jewish community and who are willing to learn challenging approaches to reaching such a population, generally outside of the synagogue. Advanced rabbinical students are preferred, but any interested rabbinical student can apply. Exceptional writing skills are required.

Responsibilities

Since the work will be project specific, the rotation may take place in one of three ways, depending on the interests of the students and the needs of the organization. Students may work one day a week, three hours per day for the entire year; six hours per week for a semester; or two weeks' full time at the beginning of the summer. While students will be working for the entire JOI staff, students will be primarily supervised by the JOI executive director.

Topics

• Outreach and education
• Research
• Program development and design
• Fundraising/development
• Nonprofit administrative and management skills
• Training in guiding and nurturing interfaith couples