Special Initiatives
Our world is in a state of constant flux, and Jewish LearningWorks’ professional learning offerings are designed to respond to evolving needs. Our special initiatives are time limited, and reflect unique opportunities for partnership.
2027 SOULFULL: MAKING SPACE FOR THE SACRED
Bi-annual gathering for Bay Area Jewish educators across organizational settings
Building off our first-ever SoulFULL gathering in 2025, we again invite the Jewish education community to gather for a day of reflection, respite, learning, and connection.
Casper ter Kuile from the Sacred Design Lab, and a menu of eight spiritual education workshops will offer you the time and space for your own spiritual care, while simultaneously expanding skills and knowledge to support the soulful journey of your students and community. The 2027 SoulFULL gathering is planned for February 11, 2027. Please join us!
Kadima Collective
For professionals who have learned with Jewish LearningWorks for 40+ hours
Kadima Collective creates opportunities to remain connected to a curated community of thoughtful leaders and learners while continuing to access high-caliber Jewish learning, and unique field-building leadership experiences. Invitations to join are extended throughout the year.
The Ruby Award
For educators and others working with Bay Area teens
Established in 2020, in memory of teen champion Rob Ruby z’l, the Ruby Award honors excellence in Jewish youth education and engagement. The Ruby Award is presented every two years. Nominations for the 2028 Ruby Award will open in the fall of 2027.
ElevatED
For early childhood education professionals
The East Bay Jewish early childhood community is one of five pioneering communities participating in the first cohort of ElevatED, a national initiative designed to professionalize the field of Jewish early childhood education. ElevatED is a partnership of the Union for Reform Judaism, the JCC Association of North America, and The Jewish Federations of North America.
For more information, please contact Ellen Lefkowitz at ellen@jewishlearning.works.
Voices for Good Initiative
For women in the professional Jewish world
A multi-pronged initiative designed to advance gender equity in Jewish life, and support women in positions of leadership and influence. The Voices for Good Fellowship is the largest program under this initiative.
The Orchard
For early childhood education professionals
Jewish LearningWorks is proud to co-sponsor The Orchard—a joint initiative advancing the professional learning of educators in Jewish early childhood centers across North America.
The Orchard offers a variety of virtual workshops, from teaching the Jewish holidays, to child development and pedagogy, to teaching American holidays through an equity lens.
