A class session in Mogilev, training young leaders for the Jewish community

Jewish Community Training, Mogilev

Location:Mogilev, Belarus
Name of implementing organization:Jewish Community “Kovcheg”
Date of initial project approval:November 2008

Brief description of the local Jewish community

There are about 5,000 Jews in Mogilev. The main organizations serving the community include:

· The Jewish Agency

· The Mogilev Jewish Community – The “Kovcheg” community works in close connection with them, and we have a lot of positive experience in carrying out mutual projects and events.

· The Chabad religious community

· Chabad School

· The Reform religious community “Keshet”

· Chesed Organization, which provides social help for the elderly

Project aims and objectives

The project aims to prepare qualified staff for local Jewish organizations and communities.

Project Description

This project is training a new generation of young community leaders who will be knowledgeable about Jewish history, culture, and traditions, as well as teaching methods, public speaking, administration, and management of non-profit associations. Graduates will facilitate the renaissance of Jewish life in Belarus. Most graduates eventually will work in local Jewish communities and organizations.

The training program is open to men and women who are nearing the end of their university studies. Participants should demonstrate an independent personality, and a history of participation in Jewish activities. A basic knowledge of Judaism is a prerequisite for the program. Interested applicants who lack this basic knowledge will be encouraged to attend community seminars and lectures and to re-apply to the program in the following year.

Classes extend for 4 hours daily. Students are divided into two groups, according to their prior level of knowledge. The curriculum includes: Hebrew, Jewish Tradition, Jewish History, The History of Israel, The State of Israel, English Language, Group Psychology, and Leadership and Management of Social Organizations. The main Jewish Studies instructor comes from Israel.

Main budget elements

Instructor from Israel

Lecturers from Israel

Local instructors

Trips and seminars

Students' meals

Student stipends

Student travel expenses for work-study practice

The project's successes

We have made a good start. Students are satisfied with their studies.They are acquiring knowledge and having a good time. They are beginning to practice their acquired skills.

Contact information for anyone seeking further information about the project:

Alexander Waissman
16B Leninskaya St. Mogilev, Belarus

Telephone/fax: +375 222 310805

mohilev@gmail.com
http://www.jewish-mohilev.org/