Get to Know: JOIN for Justice

by Jess Greenblatt Seeley
Co-Executive Director, JOIN for Justice

JOIN for Justice is a national force in the Jewish social justice world, having trained almost 10,000 Jewish leaders. Co-led by Jess Greenblatt Seeley, JOIN is at the forefront of developing the next generation of Jewish leaders, especially Jews of Color (JOC), through its groundbreaking Jews of Color Organizing Fellowship (JOCOF) Program.

Many are unaware of the unique experiences and strengths of JOCs, who frequently face isolation and exclusion in both predominantly white Jewish and People of Color (POC) spaces. JOCOF is designed to address these challenges by providing the training, mentorship, and community support JOCs need to become effective leaders of Jewish communities and social justice organizations.

Here’s what makes JOCOF a game-changer:

• It’s a year-long fellowship currently offered in four cities across the country that combines virtual and in-person training, Jewish learning, and livable wage positions at leading organizations.
• The curriculum is focused on community organizing skills, leadership, Jewish wisdom, and content specifically for JOCs, all while emphasizing resilience and combating burnout.
• JOCOF builds powerful networks between JOCs, deepening their connection to their Jewish identity and establishing a lifelong community of leaders.

With its innovative approach, JOCOF is cultivating a thriving, diverse, and just Jewish community, ensuring that the voices and experiences of JOCs are not only heard but also driving real change. With your support, JOCOF can continue to grow its impact across the country, reaching more JOCs and helping build a more equitable and inclusive Jewish community and world.

EIN 04-3617885

This article has been edited for clarity