401.331.1244 info@jcsri.org

Congregational Outreach

Kesher (“connection”) is a synagogue-based program from JCS that brings social workers to local temples to provide both immediate and long-term support for the congregation. Kesher is designed to sustain, nurture and strengthen the wellbeing and stability of families and individuals through local synagogues. 

Support for Clergy and Congregants

The Kesher Program serves the communities of Temple Torat Yisrael in East Greenwich, Temple Sinai in Cranston, and Temple Emanu-El and Congregation Beth Sholom in Providence. All Kesher services are provided free of charge.

Through Kesher, JCS’s social workers spend time at each synagogue, offering short-term counseling, support groups, family life education programs and referrals. They provide ongoing support for clergy and staff as well as short-term services for congregants.

The rabbi and social worker collaborate to provide 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 regarding both congregational and personal issues.
  • 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.

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. Don’t miss out on the December edition of ‘The Link’—click the button below to dive into this month’s edition!

Kesher specifically works through the synagogues with which JCS has an established partnership. Our ability to maintain and extend these services depends on contributions from caring 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.