While we believe that there are numerous valid paths within Orthodox Judaism, not all observant Jews are born into a community which fits them. There are Modern Orthodox Jews who choose to move to the right, but for the Charedi Jews who want to transition to a more Centrist or Modern Orthodox community, they face hurdles that prevent them from doing so (whether cultural, educational, or simply feeling unwelcomed). Some of these people end up leaving religious life altogether.

Makom offers one on one mentoring so that participants can meet a new friend in a community to which they previously had no access; classes to discuss questions and variances in Jewish hashkafa and law; meetings to share experiences; mediation between families and individuals; tutoring services; Shabbatonim with discussion groups and classes, and more.

We have been given up to $5000 in matched funds from the Schusterman Foundation to build a site, create content, do marketing, and schedule Shabbatons and other programs! Please help us meet our goal by contributing whatever you can!

We named this initiative “Makom” because this word has several meanings which fit our goals. “Makom” means “place” – as in “every Jew should be able to find his place in our community.” It means “space” as in “we will make space for you if you want to join us here.” And lastly, “Makom” is one of the names of God. We refer to God as “HaMakom” when we’re comforting a mourner. The Maharal says that “Makom” is connected to the word“mekayem,” something that sustains and provides existence. Many of the people making this transition need both comfort and sustenance as they find their way in a community which is unfamiliar to them.