About Us
Kesher Israel Congregation is a vibrant and evolving Jewish community in West Chester, PA, dedicated to fostering deep connections through prayer, learning, and engagement. More than a place of worship, Kesher Israel is a sacred space where members of all generations come together to celebrate Jewish life, support one another, and shape a dynamic and inclusive community. As we look to the future, we are committed to strengthening participation, deepening spiritual practice, and creating a culture of meaningful engagement.
Position Overview
The Director of Congregational Life is a full-time leadership position focused on building community, increasing member engagement, and ensuring that synagogue life is welcoming, inclusive, and enriching. The role involves collaborating with clergy, lay leadership, and staff to strengthen relationships within the congregation, coordinate meaningful programs, and foster an environment where members feel valued and connected.
In addition to internal engagement, the Director of Congregational Life serves as a representative of Kesher Israel in the broader community, fostering relationships with local organizations, interfaith groups, and the greater Philadelphia Jewish community beyond the congregation. This includes developing partnerships, participating in community events, and enhancing Kesher Israel’s presence in the wider Jewish landscape.
This role works closely with the Director of Operations to ensure smooth program execution. The Director of Congregational Life also collaborates with the marketing lead to enhance outreach and communications.
Key Responsibilities
Community Engagement & Membership
- Create and foster a welcoming environment, ensuring members feel engaged and connected.
- Develop and implement initiatives to recruit, integrate, and retain members.
- Act as a key contact for prospective and new members, providing tours, introductions, and ongoing outreach.
- Strengthen relationships with religious school and preschool families to encourage synagogue participation.
- Represent Kesher Israel at community and public events.
- Organize and oversee volunteer engagement efforts, recognizing and supporting active members.
- Oversee and coordinate Tikkun Olam (social action) initiatives, ensuring Kesher Israel remains active in community service, philanthropy, and advocacy efforts.
- Conduct private and sensitive discussions with families regarding dues adjustments, ensuring a compassionate and confidential approach that balances financial accessibility with synagogue sustainability.
Event Planning & Program Coordination
- Work with clergy, lay leaders, and committees to plan and execute engaging synagogue programs.
- Coordinate logistics for events such as High Holidays, Shabbat and holiday experiences, social programs, and the annual gala.
- Partner with the Director of Operations to ensure event setup, space usage, and logistical needs are met.
- Recruit and manage volunteers for events and synagogue initiatives.
- Develop and implement innovative programming that enhances congregational life.
Collaboration & Communications
- Work with the marketing team to ensure effective promotion of events and initiatives.
- Serve as a liaison between committees, clergy, and synagogue staff to ensure clear communication and coordination.
- Provide content ideas and updates to the marketing lead for social media, newsletters, and website announcements.
- Help cultivate a culture of transparency and engagement within the synagogue community.
- Partner with lay leadership, committees, and external organizations to plan and execute Tikkun Olam initiatives, ensuring meaningful impact and community participation.
Fundraising & Grant Writing
- Collaborate with lay leadership to support fundraising efforts and donor engagement.
- Assist in grant writing to secure funding for programming and community initiatives.
- Cultivate relationships with donors and sponsors to support synagogue events and programs.
- Help execute fundraising events and donor appreciation efforts.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in nonprofit management, Jewish studies, community engagement, or a related field; a master’s degree is preferred.
- 5+ years of experience in nonprofit leadership, synagogue or Jewish communal work, community engagement, event planning, or membership development.
- Demonstrated leadership experience in program development, volunteer coordination, and community-building initiatives.
- Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with a passion for engaging people and fostering a welcoming environment.
- Proven project management and organizational skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
- Experience in fundraising, donor relations, or grant writing is a plus.
- Knowledge of Jewish traditions, customs, and synagogue life, with a commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive Jewish community.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required for events, meetings, and programs.
Position Details
- Hours: 35 to 40 hours per week, with flexibility to adjust hours when evening or weekend events are required.
- Reports to: Synagogue President.
- Compensation: Commensurate with experience.
To Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and passion for building community to Amy Kaminsky at [email protected].