Memphis Receives Community Growth Grant

Thanks to the hard work of Mr. Josh Kahane and his dedicated committee, we just learned that the Memphis Orthodox community was one of two communities awarded the first Community Growth Grant from Yeshiva University's Center for the Jewish Future.


Here are some excerpts from the Grant's guidelines:

The Community Growth Grant selects several communities that display the preparedness to implement a growth strategy as outlined in this guide’s best practices and exhibit a culture of excellence and an infrastructure that promote the values and ideals of Yeshiva University. These selected communities will participate in an enhanced community growth relationship with YU CJF.


What a CGG community can expect from Yeshiva University:


 A programming grant toward YU programs which includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. YU speakers to serve as scholars in residence
2. Site visits by YU CJF to consult with your community and assist in the growth process
3. Access to young families:
1. Apartment communities in our network through parlor meetings
2. Active promotions for your community through matchmaking efforts and interactions wit young families
3. Assistance in providing leadership training for the young leadership in your community
4. Access to other YU CJF resources including but not limited to ShaarHaavoda.org, Career Development Center, and the Department of Jewish Career Development and Placement Services

Selection parameters for communities:

1. A complete application
2. An established and vibrant Torah Umada Jewish infrastructure
3. An engaged and inspired leadership that is able to collaborate effectively across local institutions.
4. A vibrant local day school
5. A vibrant local high school
6. One or more vibrant local synagogues
7. A local federation that is actively supportive of community growth
8. Thriving local youth groups
9. A community eruv
10. A community mikvah An economic climate in your community that has potential for job growth
11. A comprehensive incentive package to attract young families and aid them in their move
12. A strong community growth infrastructure to facilitate the influx of young families and to assist new family retention
13. A commitment from your community to encourage high school graduates to attend Yeshiva University

We'll share more details when they become available.  In the meantime, though, I wanted to express how proud we are of the fact that all facets of our vibrant Memphis Orthodox community enjoy a strong relationship with Yeshiva University and how deeply appreciative we are for all the support they have given us over the years.  We have no doubt that this new grant will help both our community and our relationship with YU soar to even greater heights.