Blueprint for Social Change: Shaping an Impact-Based Strategy - Case Study 2002 – 2020

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Examples of Activity

RSIP The Ruderman Synagogue Inclusion Project (RSIP) was launched in 2014 as a partnership between RFF and CJP to support synagogues in creating communities where

people of all abilities and their families are welcomed, valued, and participate fully. The program was launched across all Jewish synagogues from all Jewish denominations. Today it includes 52 participating synagogues that fall into the categories of Partners, Affiliates, or Alumni based on their level of engagement and number of program offerings. The sheer growth of participants is a testament to the strong network the program has nurtured for effecting change. Each synagogue that participates in RSIP engages in its own strategic process and implements an Inclusion Action Plan to move its efforts forward. RSIP supports each synagogue with grants ranging from $500-$5,000 as well as resources based on each institution’s specific needs and challenges.

Gateways Access to Jewish Education, was formed in July 2006 by the merger of two Boston area community based organizations, Etgar L’Noar and The Jewish Special Education Collaborative.

In 2009, Gateways also absorbed a program of special needs consultation formerly overseen by the Bureau of Jewish Education. As a result of these mergers, Gateways became Boston’s central address for Jewish education for students with disabilities. The new organization formed was one of a kind in supporting schools, professionals and students with disabilities. Gateways provides special education services, expertise, and support to enable students with diverse learning needs to succeed in Jewish educational settings and participate meaningfully in Jewish life. Gateways provides a diverse menu of innovative educational services and programs designed for students with a range of learning styles and challenges. The organization collaborates with educators at area day schools, congregational and community supplementary schools, and Jewish preschools, and has its own autonomous Jewish Education Programs. Denominations The efforts to raise awareness and promote inclusion in religious life in made by the foundation expressed in its work with Jewish denominations was aimed to change the way Jewish religious streams approach inclusion and disability. Efforts were made internally towards organizational change and externally towards the faith based institutions under the umbrella of each denomination. Every denomination implemented the inclusion and change according to its faith traditions.