At Congregation B’nai Jacob we are engaged in Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, through projects that address hunger, homelessness, and refugees in our community. These projects all offer various ways to participate. You can volunteer in person, contribute home-cooked or store-bought food, or donate much-needed funds. These projects also offer welcome opportunities for our community to collaborate with other synagogues and churches.
We thank you for upholding the Congregation B’nai Jacob tradition of extending generosity to those in profound need.
Below, you'll find details on our Social Action initiatives, encompassing past achievements, present efforts, and ongoing commitments. Your involvement at any level significantly enriches these endeavors and is highly valued.
Chesed Committee at CBJ
The Chesed committee at CBJ is dedicated to supporting members of our community during times of loss or illness. This group provides kosher catered meals to families observing shiva. Volunteers have also prepared large quantities of chicken soup and matzo balls, freezing them for delivery to congregants recovering from serious health conditions.
THE JEWISH COMMUNITY ALLIANCE FOR REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT
CBJ participates in the Jewish Community Alliance for Refugee Resettlement (JCARR), helping to resettle refugee families. This project involves a coalition of synagogues working together to provide housing, education, and support services, facilitating a smooth transition for refugees into their new lives.
Columbus House and Abraham’s Tent
CBJ partners with Columbus House, Inc. to provide shelter, meals, and support services to homeless individuals. Volunteers prepare and serve meals, offering a safe and warm environment for those in need. This collaboration is a vital part of the congregation's commitment to addressing homelessness in the community.
Chapel on the Green
CBJ members prepare and serve meals in collaboration with local organizations to support individuals experiencing food insecurity. This project allows congregants to directly engage in hands-on service, fostering a sense of community and compassion.
Food4Kids
The Food4Kids program supplies weekend food packs to at-risk children, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals when school is not in session. This initiative addresses childhood food insecurity and supports the well-being of local children.
Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen
Volunteers from CBJ serve dinner to individuals in need at the Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen (DESK). This effort helps to alleviate hunger and provide nutritious meals to the community's most vulnerable members.
Isaiah's Fast
An annual food drive held during the High Holidays, where congregants donate food to support local food pantries. Isaiah's Fast highlights the congregation's commitment to combating hunger and supporting those in need within the broader community.
Mitzvah Garden
Volunteers cultivate fresh produce in the Mitzvah Garden located on the CBJ Property, which is then donated to the Jewish Family Service Food Pantry. This project not only provides healthy food options to those in need but also promotes sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship within the congregation.
Community news/fundraisers
Sun, November 2 2025
11 Cheshvan 5786
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The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic Book Study with Rabbi Rona Shapiro
Monday, Nov 3rd 7:30p to 9:00p
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Shir Hadash
Shabbat, Nov 8th 9:30a to 10:30a
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CBJ Kids Shabbat Children’s Program
Shabbat, Nov 8th 10:30a to 12:30p
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"Kernels of ash, like sparks": Chaim Grade in and out of translation with Joshua Price
Sunday, Nov 9th 10:00a to 12:00p
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The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic Book Study with Rabbi Rona Shapiro
Monday, Nov 10th 7:30p to 9:00p
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Power of Ten
Motzei Shabbat, Nov 15th 6:00p to 7:00p
