The Chai Mitzvah Mentor
A large part of the Chai Mitzvah Project’s success relies on the commitment and enthusiasm of the Chai Mitzvah mentor, who is usually a synagogue lay leader focused on promoting Chai Mitzvah in his/her synagogue.
Why become a Chai Mitzvah mentor for your congregation?
It can be very rewarding to inspire fellow Jews to make time to learn and connect on a deeper level with their Judaism. Mentors are part of a pioneering project that promises to revitalize Jewish life in America, Jewish adult learning, and reinvigorate congregations and Jewish communities.
What does it mean to be a Chai Mitzvah mentor?
Mentors take on leadership in their congregation. Mentors agree to work with the synagogue professional staff to recruit Chai Mitzvah participants and to follow-up with those participants as they develop their individualized Chai Mitzvah program. Chai Mitzvah mentors are a link between the synagogue and the Chai Mitzvah Project.
Why does each synagogue need a Chai Mitzvah mentor?
Although the synagogue leadership (board, rabbi, adult education committee) may be excited about Chai Mitzvah and eager to bring it to their synagogue, it takes the added involvement of a lay leader to bring their enthusiasm for Chai Mitzvah to their fellow congregants and connect with potential candidates.
Who can be a Chai Mitzvah mentor?
A mentor should have leadership skills, be inspirational, be willing to approach congregants about the possibility of becoming a Chai Mitzvah, and together with the Chai Mitzvah professional staff, be able to inform and guide the participant in the development and progress of their Chai Mitzvah experience throughout the year. The mentor should be knowledgeable about the resources that are available on the Chai Mitzvah website, in their synagogue, and be willing to be in touch with the Chai Mitzvah team. In some congregations and institutions, the professional may also serve as the mentor.
If you are interested in becoming a Chai Mitzvah mentor, contact your Community Coordinator.
