Torah in Action
“…the more we do good, the more readily do we grasp the meaning of duty and life…”
(Mishkan HaNefesh)
A strong commitment to social justice is a hallmark of Temple life. TBI is committed to encouraging members to become involved as they so desire. Get involved or questions: info@tbiskokie.org.
TBI Social Action Council
The TBI Social Action Council’s mission statement is to act as the “social conscience” of the congregation. The Council provides guidance and direction regarding TBI social action programming. The Council generates new ideas to engage TBI members in the work of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) both through “hands on” projects as well as advocacy initiatives. The Council evaluates and responds to requests for TBI involvement and brings resolutions to the TBI Board. In addition to several funds that support community and tzedakah needs, there are several ongoing projects, committees and activities energizing and activating TBI members in social action.
Committee on Anti-Racism Education (CARE)
During these turbulent times, we are all confronted with questions about race. How we respond individually and collectively to racism in our world, our country, and our (Jewish) community has become a matter of serious thought and discussion. The Committee on Anti-Racism Education is a combined effort of the Social Action Council and Adult Education in order to help meet this important challenge. Look here for posts that offer reading material, educational programs, and opportunities to participate in anti-racist activities.
Get involved or questions: info@TBISkokie.org
Keshet LBGTQ+ Action Committee
The Keshet LBGTQ+ Action Committee is focused on awareness and training. Get involved or questions: info@TBISkokie.org
Green Team
Green Team was established in June 2019, funded by TBI Social Action Committee and Sisterhood TBI, in order to have a core group of trained volunteers to help establish a system to divert as much waste as possible away from landfill. This included helping to educate and train congregants as well.
In February 2020, the Green Team, attended a training with a new partner, Hazon, a Jewish organization committed to sustainability practices. TBI received Hazon’s seal of sustainability and will continue to partner with training and educational materials.
Get involved or questions: info@TBISkokie.org
TBI is proud to partner with the following organizations:
- JCUA
- The Jewish Council on Urban Affairs (JCUA) works to transform Chicago into a city free of poverty, racism and antisemitism, by mobilizing the Jewish community to be a powerful voice for economic and racial justice.
- Religious Action Center (RAC)
- For more than six decades, the Religious Action Council (the RAC) of Reform Judaism and its local affiliate, RAC-IL, have worked to educate, inspire, and mobilize the Reform Jewish Movement to advocate for social justice.
- The ARK
- The ARK helps Chicagoland Jews who are facing adversity navigate toward self-reliance.
- Maot Chitim of Greater Chicago
- Maot Chitim assists needy members of the Chicagoland community with Passover and the High Holidays and other food-related needs so they may observe the holidays and daily life in a traditional and dignified manner.
- Mazon
- At TBI events offering food, participants are asked to provide an additional 3% donation to go towards Mazon: A Jewish Response to Hunger.
- Niles Township Food Pantry
- TBI regularly collects food and needed items for our local community and contributes to the priorities outlined by the Niles Township Food Pantry in our hometown of Skokie, IL.
- NECHAMA: A Jewish Response to Disaster
- JUF Disaster Relief Fund – JUF fund which sends on a full 100% of the monies donated.
- JDC – American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee – Relief funds for Indonesia Earthquake relief fund
- HIAS
- Help Make a House a Home – Evanston project
- Looking to help? WINGS or Connections for the Homeless could use your help!