Congregational Outreach
Kesher, which means connection, is program of JCS that provides psychosocial assessment and support to identified congregants of local temples at no charge. Kesher is designed to sustain, nurture, and strengthen the wellbeing and stability of families and individuals through local synagogues.
Support for Clergy and Congregants
Our Kesher workers are social service and mental health professionals who have the education and experience needed to provide vulnerable community members with guidance during times of life transitions, financial instability, health and mental health challenges, and social isolation. Kesher workers can offer assessment of congregants’ needs, support groups, family life education programs, and referrals to needed resources.
Kesher workers collaborate with rabbis and other synagogue leadership to facilitate a holistic response to congregants’ needs. They offer both therapeutic and spiritual guidance.
Kesher Services
Examples of Kesher services include:
- Help for congregants facing mental health or challenging family issues, including referrals to JCS or other community resources.
- Consultation for staff, including rabbis, school directors, teachers, and youth advisors on navigating and supporting the psychosocial needs of their congregants and students.
- Consultation for synagogue committees such as Bikur Cholim (“visiting the sick”) and Caring Committees.
- Workshops and group discussions on topics of interest to the congregation, such as parenting, caring for aging parents, and grief and loss.
- Virtual support groups for chronic illness and grief.
Chronic Illness Support Group
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Stay connected with the latest program updates and events from JCS through our monthly Kesher newsletter, The Link.
Explore insightful articles, program highlights, and volunteer opportunities in each edition.
Kesher works hand-in-hand with the synagogues partnered with JCS to support community members in meaningful ways at no cost. These vital services are made possible thanks to the generosity of our community members.
To find out how you can support the Kesher program, contact us at (401) 331-1244, or click the button below to donate.