Events & Webinars
Welcome to the USCJ Events Page, your central hub for all upcoming trainings, webinars, and events designed to empower and connect our community. Whether you’re looking to enhance your leadership skills, stay informed on the latest trends in Jewish education, or network with peers across the movement, our diverse lineup of events has something for everyone. Explore our calendar and register today to stay engaged, inspired, and equipped to make a meaningful impact in your congregation and beyond. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to learn, grow, and lead!
Click below to jump to a specific category
Leadership Development
Sulam for Synagogue Leaders
Wednesday, Jan. 22
Sulam for Synagogue Leaders (SSL) is a leadership development program of USCJ that assists synagogues in their efforts to create purposeful, energized and sustainable congregations. This 90 minute webinar provides an overview of the revamped six session SSL curriculum. We will then concentrate on the first session: The Leadership Plan which focuses on the importance of vision and goal setting in providing direction for synagogue leaders. A new module on goal setting and prioritization will be introduced. Without an overall direction different parts of the organization can work at cross purposes and not know what limited resources to prioritize. Leadership needs to be change agents that create a vision that inspires action and communicates priorities.
Sulam for Synagogue Leaders Daytime 2pm: Register Here
Sulam for Synagogue Leaders Evening 8pm: Register Here
Sulam for Presidents
3-Day Virtual Conference: March 20-23
Hundreds of synagogue presidents are alumni of our flagship leadership conference. Join USCJ’s leadership consultants Linda Sussman, Daniel Langenthal, and Barry Mael for an impactful three-day virtual conference designed to help synagogue presidents make the most of their tenure.
Derekh Eretz: Walking Together Amidst Differences
Four Sessions: February, March, May, June
Cosponsored by the Rabbinical Assembly
Presented by Simon Klarfeld, Leadership Consultant
Feelings of helplessness, fear, and grief continue to pile up alongside ongoing violence in Israel and the political turmoil at home. The issues that have arisen in Israel and the US have divided our communities and made it difficult for people to manage their own emotions and to engage with each other. In this age of polarization, echo chambers and hot-button issues, it seems as if we have forgotten how to talk with one another, how to listen to others’ viewpoints, how to respectfully disagree, or participate in civil discourse with people who disagree with us. We would like to provide the opportunity for the USCJ community to engage with their head and hearts through self-reflection and debate.
Explore all the sessions here!
Creativity for Times of Challenge and Change
Presented by Rabbi Adina Allen of the Jewish Studio Project
This program explores human emotion through the sacred words of Psalms and the creative process. Combining the words of Psalms, texts that speak to and can hold every human emotion and the power of creative process to regulate our nervous systems, to sit with our questions, to connect to our hearts and to guide our actions allows our communities and organizations throughout the Jewish ecosystem, to be with each other across difference, across space and time, and through all the emotions that have arisen.
Operational Effectiveness
The Power of Hello
“The Power of Hello” is vital training designed to empower individuals and organizations to enhance workplace safety through simple, actionable steps. Learn how to identify and assess potential threats, engage with effective communication, navigate the risk, and build a culture of vigilance. By mastering these techniques, you can play a critical role in safeguarding your community and fostering an environment where everyone feels secure. Take the first step in creating a safer future—register for The Power of Hello today!
Tuesday, February 4th, 2:00-3:30 PM EST
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/3517333466750/WN_ioOVU_54TAuLLilncioltA
Tuesday, February 4th, 8:30-10:00 PM EST (encore presentation)
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/4017333469663/WN_7yhTva7EQ7GxJJKkLh9n6Q
Navigating Conflict, The Power of De-escalation
“Navigating Conflict: The Power of De-escalation” is a foundational overview of de-escalation techniques. This webinar will provide a basic understanding and introduction to the skills and techniques to defuse or reduce tension, hostility, and/or conflict in situations. Join us to learn the definition of de-escalation, identify common escalation triggers, understand the de-escalation process, and learn effective strategies for handling aggression. Register today!
Tuesday, February 11th, 2:00-3:30 PM
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/8717333472414/WN_q1Sdi-N-SH6W8BD229-lqw
Tuesday, February 11th, 8:30-10:00 PM EST (encore presentation)
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/1017333476380/WN_hBslWGatRV6zo3wHXXvj_Q
Countering an Active Threat
“CATT: Countering an Active Threat Training” is designed to teach the principles of responding during an active shooter (or active threat) event. This webinar will follow the national standard curriculum: RUN, HIDE, FIGHT with additional focus on how we can better prepare to persevere in an active threat environment. This course is designed for every member of the community. Join us for this foundational, core training by registering now!
Tuesday, February 18th, 2:00-3:30 PM EST
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/1717333480247/WN_mqt5ijcVS1SUuja9oeSZUQ
Tuesday, February 18th, 8:30-10:00 PM EST (encore presentation)
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/2717333482531/WN_pnqpIVFNRdafHtMl2-oJNw
Live from NAASE: From Good to Great
Tuesday, Feb. 25 at Noon PT / 3 pm ET
Even successful congregations must evolve, build, and produce new levels of excellence to stay relevant, engaging, and impactful. This webinar will explore strategies to take your synagogue from “good to great” by infusing creative and relational energy into every aspect of your operation. With lessons drawn from real-world experiences, participants will learn how to conduct a thorough analysis of current models, programs, and activities, identify areas for innovation, and implement changes that foster a dynamic, vibrant community.
Guardian: Identify. Protect. Respond.
This webinar teaches the life skills necessary to become a Guardian. Guardians are active participants in the safety and security of their families and communities. The webinar will focus on mindset and concrete skills that include identifying suspicious people, vehicles, and packages, principles critical to protecting themselves, their families, and community institutions, as well as principles surrounding how to respond during emergencies. Register now to learn the skills it takes to become a Guardian!
Tuesday, January 28th, 2:00-3:30 PM EST
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/4117333458568/WN_JFTdlWHeRSGKApTxHohUXw
Tuesday, January 28th, 8:30-10:00 PM EST (encore presentation)
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/4917333464012/WN_5f6gJt_QQ4KtzSd1WVDdSw
Unlocking Generosity: A Deep Dive into Family Foundations, DAFs, and Legacy Giving
Thursday, March 6 at 10 am PT / 1 pm ET
Speaker: Avrum Lapin
When it comes to fundraising, sometimes it is just as important to know what to ask for as how you ask. Wealth can be held in a variety of ways and each one has its own mechanisms for philanthropic distribution. We will explore DAFs, family foundations, legacy giving, and other wealth management tools—and how you can approach and work with congregants who use these mechanisms to contribute to your synagogue campaigns.
Engagement & Programming
Small Congregations Gathering
Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 5 pm PT / 8 pm ET
Join fellow small congregations (200 or fewer household units) for peer discussion and networking. This is an open forum for brainstorming and ideating.
Membership Affinity Group: Empowering Membership, Engagement, and Program Committees
Thursday, Feb. 20 at 10 am PT / 1 pm ET
How can we think strategically and creatively about engaging those who sit on membership, programming, and engagement committees (or task forces) in order to enhance the efforts that they make?
Creating Safe Spaces: Preventing and Addressing Misconduct in Congregations
Thursday, March 27 at 9:30 am PT / 12:30 pm ET
Presented by Mauria Atzil, Director of Child & Youth Protection
Everyone deserves to feel safe at synagogue. Yet, bullying, harassment, and allegations of misconduct in congregations often go unreported because individuals feel nothing can or will be done. In this webinar, we will explore strategies, policies, and procedures that can be implemented to prioritize safety and respect, reduce negative behaviors, and improve our response when they do happen. Q&A to follow.
Youth & Education
Clergy-Educator Cohort
Monday, Feb. 10 at 10 am PT / 1 pm ET
Cosponsored by the Jewish Educators Assembly, Rabbinical Assembly, and Cantors Assembly
The Jewish Educators Assembly (JEA) is excited to invite cantors and rabbis who are also serving as religious school directors to participate in a special cohort of clergy-educators. This meeting of the Clergy/Educator cohort will be a presentation by Mitchell J Smilowitz, CPA, Chief Exective Officer of the Joint Retirement Board. If you are a new clergy, or a new educator, or a new employee of a USCJ congregation, please join us to learn how you can begin to plan for your retirement today. It is never too early to start saving!
Mahloket Le-Shem Shamayim: The Jewish Value of Debate
Presented by Sefi Kraut, Pardes Institute
Wednesday, January 15 at 10 am PT / 1 pm ET
In a hyper-polarized world, in which dismissal and demonization of the “other” is the norm, what wisdom does the Jewish tradition offer regarding the importance of multiple perspectives and the positive power of constructive disagreement? What are the practical skills necessary to productively engage in challenging conversations and to solve problems with those with whom we are in community? We will begin exploring these questions through a combination of Jewish text study and social psychology.
Teen Spirit: Revitalizing Synagogue Life for the Next Generation
Presented by Rabbi Ilan Schwartz, USY Director of Leadership Development
Three session options on Monday, January 27
Option 1: 10 am PT / 1 pm ET
Option 2: 5 pm PT / 8 pm ET
Option 3: 7 pm PT / 10 pm ET
Delve into the dynamic world of teen engagement! We will explore trends in teen programming, share best practices for starting and sustaining your program, and discuss how to empower teen leaders to create a youth engagement engine in your synagogue. This session is designed for educators, community leaders, and anyone passionate about fostering a vibrant and engaging environment for today’s Jewish teens.
Register here for option 1 1pm
Telling Your Origin Story and Gaining Instant Trust
Movement Events: Save the Dates!
Kol Tefilla – Shabbaton
Jan. 10-12 Temple Beth Am in Los Angeles,
CARegister today for Kol Tefilla! Back by popular demand at Temple Beth Am in Los Angeles January 10-12, 2025. Featuring the Jewish Studio Project and Rabbi David Ingber. Click the button to learn more and register.
JTS & RA Present: Rabbinic Training Institute
January 12-16 – In Person
Reisterstown, MD
Open to all rabbis affiliated with the Conservative Movement.
Sunday, Feb. 9
Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs
Questions about the 2025 World Wide Wrap?Reach out to FJMC World Wide Wrap Chair:
Len Abrams [email protected].
NAASE Conference: Sustainability in Action
Shabbaton: Feb. 21-22
Conference: Feb. 23-26
Portland, OR
Early bird deadline: Nov. 30
World Zionist Elections begin March 10
Vote for MERCAZ USA to represent the Conservative/Masorti Movement in the World Zionist Congress.
“CATT: Countering an Active Threat Training” is designed to teach the principles of responding during an active shooter (or active threat) event. This webinar will follow the national standard curriculum: RUN, HIDE, FIGHT with additional focus on how we can better prepare to persevere in an active threat environment. This course is designed for every member of the community. Join us for this foundational, core training by registering now!
Tuesday, February 18th, 2:00-3:30 PM EST
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/1717333480247/WN_mqt5ijcVS1SUuja9oeSZUQ
Tuesday, February 18th, 8:30-10:00 PM EST (encore presentation)
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/2717333482531/WN_pnqpIVFNRdafHtMl2-oJNw
“Navigating Conflict: The Power of De-escalation” is a foundational overview of de-escalation techniques. This webinar will provide a basic understanding and introduction to the skills and techniques to defuse or reduce tension, hostility, and/or conflict in situations. Join us to learn the definition of de-escalation, identify common escalation triggers, understand the de-escalation process, and learn effective strategies for handling aggression. Register today!
Tuesday, February 11th, 2:00-3:30 PM
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/8717333472414/WN_q1Sdi-N-SH6W8BD229-lqw
Tuesday, February 11th, 8:30-10:00 PM EST (encore presentation)
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/1017333476380/WN_hBslWGatRV6zo3wHXXvj_Q
“The Power of Hello” is vital training designed to empower individuals and organizations to enhance workplace safety through simple, actionable steps. Learn how to identify and assess potential threats, engage with effective communication, navigate the risk, and build a culture of vigilance. By mastering these techniques, you can play a critical role in safeguarding your community and fostering an environment where everyone feels secure. Take the first step in creating a safer future—register for The Power of Hello today!
Tuesday, February 4th, 2:00-3:30 PM EST
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/3517333466750/WN_ioOVU_54TAuLLilncioltA
Tuesday, February 4th, 8:30-10:00 PM EST (encore presentation)
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/4017333469663/WN_7yhTva7EQ7GxJJKkLh9n6Q
This webinar teaches the life skills necessary to become a Guardian. Guardians are active participants in the safety and security of their families and communities. The webinar will focus on mindset and concrete skills that include identifying suspicious people, vehicles, and packages, principles critical to protecting themselves, their families, and community institutions, as well as principles surrounding how to respond during emergencies. Register now to learn the skills it takes to become a Guardian!
Tuesday, January 28th, 2:00-3:30 PM EST
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/4117333458568/WN_JFTdlWHeRSGKApTxHohUXw
Tuesday, January 28th, 8:30-10:00 PM EST (encore presentation)
Register at https://securecommunitynetwork-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/4917333464012/WN_5f6gJt_QQ4KtzSd1WVDdSw
Clergy-Educator Cohort
Monday, Feb. 10 at 10 am PT / 1 pm ET
Cosponsored by the Jewish Educators Assembly, Rabbinical Assembly, and Cantors Assembly
The Jewish Educators Assembly (JEA) is excited to invite cantors and rabbis who are also serving as religious school directors to participate in a special cohort of clergy-educators. This meeting of the Clergy/Educator cohort will be a presentation by Mitchell J Smilowitz, CPA, Chief Exective Officer of the Joint Retirement Board. If you are a new clergy, or a new educator, or a new employee of a USCJ congregation, please join us to learn how you can begin to plan for your retirement today. It is never too early to start saving!
Creating Safe Spaces: Preventing and Addressing Misconduct in Congregations
Thursday, March 27 at 9:30 am PT / 12:30 pm ET
Presented by Mauria Atzil, Director of Child & Youth Protection
Everyone deserves to feel safe at synagogue. Yet, bullying, harassment, and allegations of misconduct in congregations often go unreported because individuals feel nothing can or will be done. In this webinar, we will explore strategies, policies, and procedures that can be implemented to prioritize safety and respect, reduce negative behaviors, and improve our response when they do happen. Q&A to follow.
Membership Affinity Group: Empowering Membership, Engagement, and Program Committees
Thursday, Feb. 20 at 10 am PT / 1 pm ET
How can we think strategically and creatively about engaging those who sit on membership, programming, and engagement committees (or task forces) in order to enhance the efforts that they make?
Small Congregations Gathering
Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 5 pm PT / 8 pm ET
Join fellow small congregations (200 or fewer household units) for peer discussion and networking. This is an open forum for brainstorming and ideating.
Live from NAASE: From Good to Great
Tuesday, Feb. 25 at Noon PT / 3 pm ET
Even successful congregations must evolve, build, and produce new levels of excellence to stay relevant, engaging, and impactful. This webinar will explore strategies to take your synagogue from “good to great” by infusing creative and relational energy into every aspect of your operation. With lessons drawn from real-world experiences, participants will learn how to conduct a thorough analysis of current models, programs, and activities, identify areas for innovation, and implement changes that foster a dynamic, vibrant community.
Sulam for Presidents
3-Day Virtual Conference: March 20-23
Hundreds of synagogue presidents are alumni of our flagship leadership conference. Join USCJ’s leadership consultants Linda Sussman, Daniel Langenthal, and Barry Mael for an impactful three-day virtual conference designed to help synagogue presidents make the most of their tenure.
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