Apply for Rashei Tzedek
Rashei Tzedek is a seven-week virtual training and project-based cohort for lay leaders, staff, and clergy who hold—or are ready to take on—the advocacy and social action portfolio in their Conservative/Masorti community.
Meeting Tuesdays, October 13–November 24, from 6:45–8:00 p.m. ET/5:45-7:00pm CT/3:45-5:00pm PT, participants will build practical skills in community organizing, nonpartisan advocacy, coalition-building, and Tzedek Center’s core issue areas: Jewish safety, food security, and abundant, sustainable energy.
Each participating community will designate one Rosh Tzedek, who will receive a $2000 stipend to lead at least five local advocacy, service, education, or coalition-building projects in 2027, with ongoing coaching and support from Tzedek Center staff.
The cohort will include up to 15 members. Final cohort size is at the sole discretion of the Tzedek Center and application review committee.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be representatives of a USCJ-affiliated synagogue whose membership and dues are up to date.
- Applicants must be eligible to serve as a liaison between their home synagogue, Tzedek Center, local coalition partners, and local policymakers. Therefore, a sponsoring rabbi and any social action / social justice committee within the synagogue should be aware and endorse your application.
- Participants must be available to attend the virtual training sessions live – which will take place Tuesdays, October 13–November 24, from 6:45–8:00 p.m. ET/5:45-7:00pm CT/3:45-5:00pm PT. If an absence is necessary, it must be excused and missed work completed.
Stipend
- Rashei Tzedek will receive the stipend for their congregational advocacy work in apportioned installments: after completing the fall 2026 training and during the implementation of each of their five projects in 2027.
Application Deadline: 11:59pm ET Thursday September 17th.
For questions regarding the Rashei Tzedek Fellowship or about the application and deadline, please contact info@tzedekcenter.org.