Programs We Support
THE Project Kesher Method
At the core of our work is the Project Kesher Method- training grassroots activists in regional and national clusters, who return to their communities to initiate programs on a range of topics and implement them in a way that is engaging and relevant.
we invest in LEADERSHIP TRAINING
Leaders build local networks of support. PK women inspire and mentor each other as they put Jewish values to work for social justice in their communities. Project Kesher Leadership Training offers a Jewish-content based curriculum.
RESPONSIVE PROGRAMMING
Project Kesher keaders identify a need, research, pilot, then replicate programs throughout the region that address these needs. This methodology ensures practicality of programs without significant upfront, out-of-pocket costs.
Women’s Leadership Training
The centerpiece of the PK model is leadership development training where participants learn universal religious values that support activism to improve their societies. Graduates of the program have strong grassroots organizing skills, can facilitate needs assessment and the development and implementation of creative, effective programs, evaluate their impact and communicate their results in reports and through the media.
Mara Schwartz ORT KesherNet Centers
Project Kesher supports 13 award-winning Mara Schwartz ORT Keshernet centers in Belarus, Georgia, Russia, and Ukraine that train women in financial best practices and technological skills to stay relevant in the workplace.
Beit Binah Jewish Learning
Beit Binah is a training program that teaches women to become Torah study facilitators, with a focus on social activism. In 132 intensive classroom hours, facilitators are taught Bible studies, Jewish ethics & faith, and classroom dynamics to prepare for bringing their Jewish knowledge to their local communities.
Mother Daughter Jewish Leadership Retreats
Jewish mother and daughter pairs from Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine attend a first-time Project Kesher shabbat retreat, where they become partners in building Jewish life and advocating for women and girls in their communities.
ending gender violence
PK-trained leaders are at the forefront of activism to educate about domestic violence, elder abuse, and human trafficking. Groups advocate for better policies, laws, and enforcement, and work to change societal attitudes about violence against women (children, the elderly, and disabled) in all its forms.
Fighting the Spread of HIV
With the fastest-growing HIV/AIDS population outside of Africa, Ukraine remains tentative in its efforts to educate its population about this disease. Project Kesher women's groups are actively engaged in raising awareness and initiating programs to prevent AIDS from spreading.
Breast Cancer Awareness and Early Detection
PK-trained leaders get information out into the community and confidently address taboos that might prevent women from seeking tests and treatment for sexual health issues, breast cancer, postpartum depression, and more. Working with women, health care professionals, NGOs, and academic institutions, these programs get women accurate information about reproductive health care, community resources for a wide range of health concerns, and access to tests and treatments.
Global Jewish Women's Celebrations
Project Kesher-trained leaders hosted Jewish holiday celebrations in 140+ locations throughout Ukraine, Russia, Israel, Belarus, Moldova, and Georgia in 2019, the 25th anniversary of the Global Women’s Passover Seders.
Interfaith and Multiethnic Coalitions
Our inclusiveness is our strength. By linking ethnic and religious groups, Project Kesher builds strong communities and promotes tolerance. These multi-ethnic coalitions have been instrumental in diminishing and/or responding to incidents of anti-Semitism and other forms of ethnic intolerance. As we work with our counterparts, they learn about our values and our commitment to building a just and civil society that serves all people.
Economic Empowerment and Financial Literacy Programs
PK programs provide tools for women, many of whom are under great stress, toward self-sufficiency and self-actualization, helping them to take control of their financial lives and fine-tune their professional skills.