HISTORY

Over the past 32 years, PK has been supporting grassroots Jewish leaders in Russia as they lead Jewish community and promote women’s health and safety. Today, Project Kesher Russia supports a network of more than 1,000 trained Jewish leaders and educators, interfaith coalitions, and programs advancing Jewish tradition in Russia.

TARGET POPULATION

The target population for this program is Jewish women and girls in Russia, ages 14-45. The secondary population includes their partners, husbands, children, and extended family, as well as the Jewish communities, youth groups, and populations they serve with programs. Program participants identify as Jewish and learn Jewish culture and tradition through a gender lens through PK-funded programs. 

PK Russia is engaged in the constant process of asking young women what they need and documenting the feedback. A recurring theme in their responses is that, due to the conservative, patriarchal nature of the Russian Orthodox Church and many of the more prominent Jewish communities in this region, many younger people are moving away from religion, including young Jews. Young people are not finding that these institutions are responsive to their needs. This is especially true for young women and girls, who often report that they are not heard and have no power in their Jewish communities. Without an alternative, they are inclined to abandon Jewish traditions and cultural identity. Yet, today young Jewish women leaders have emerged who want to embrace their changing society and propel it forward. If Judaism is to play a role in their lives, it is critical that it be one that supports their notion of free will and empowerment to improve their society.   

CRITICAL NEEDS

With an estimated 500,000 - 2 million Jews remaining in the region building strong Jewish identity and developing communal leadership is essential to the future of Jewish life. The emerging Jewish community faces many challenges including political unrest and conflict, poverty, sexism, and lingering anti­-Semitism. Often, women who are isolated and lack support believe that their problems, such as poverty or gender violence, are unique when really, they are systemic. Without access to information, training, and community, women can feel hopeless and helpless to change their lives. Bringing Jewish women together to strengthen their connection and communication, and empower them as individuals and community leaders, PK sends them back to their hometowns confident and ready to make an impact. With Jewish values and gender equality as their compass, they motivate their community to improve the lives of women and girls.

PROGRAMS WE SUPPORT

Jewish Women’s Leadership Training

Mara Schwartz ORT Keshernet Center

Jewish Education and Holiday Celebrations

Next Generation of Jewish Leaders

Ending Gender Violence

Public Health and Women’s Health

Interfaith and Multiethnic Coalitions

Economic Empowerment and Financial Literacy