Informal educators join forces for outreach conference

Two hundred informal educators gathered at a Windsor hotel for Aleinu's outreach conference, linking Jewish Futures, Aish, Seed, the Jewish Learning Exchange and the Rabbinical Council of the United Synagogue (RCUS).

Delegates discussed a range of educational issues and were involved in training programmes. The keynote speaker was Israeli rabbi Reuven Leuchter, an authority on virtues-based ethics. Other speakers covered topics including maximising productivity in community life and the power of prayer.

At a gala dinner, tributes were paid to Rabbi Shimon Winegarten and Rabbi Alan and Rebbetzen Via Kimche, who are making aliyah, for their contribution to North-West London Jewish life. There was also  recognition of the long-time efforts of Rabbi Joel and Rebbetzen Ruthie Portnoy in Manchester.

Jewish Futures CEO Rabbi Naftali Schiff said: There is a tendency for educational organisations and rabbonim to work independently from each other. Aleinu brings everyone in the sector together."