Jofa at Home

Jofa At Home brings Jofa’s learning, energy, and values directly into your community. Each chapter creates welcoming spaces to learn core Jewish texts, explore halakhic tools, and discuss key issues in Orthodox feminism. Through regular study, conversation, and hands-on programs, participants strengthen their Shabbat and holiday experiences, deepen their connection to Jewish ritual life, and build more inclusive and vibrant Orthodox communities. Jofa At Home brings meaningful Jewish learning into your living room, beit midrash, and synagogue, empowering participants to grow personally and shape their communities. 

 

Jofa At Home leaders are asked to commit to recruiting 6 or more participants and holding 6 learning sessions. 

 

Stipend: $500 for your time, $500 for reimbursable expenses (kosher snacks, photocopying, etc.) 

 

Learning materials will be provided.

 

Who can apply: Committed Orthodox feminists across North America and around the world 

Application deadline: January 23, 2026

 

Accepted leaders will be notified by February 5, 2026

 

Orientation: February 24, 2026

 

Contact: jofa@jofa.org

 

We encourage a broad range of leaders to get involved, whether this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for or an exciting new stretch outside your comfort zone.

 

Ready to bring Jofa to your community? We are here to support you!

FAQ: How to create a “Jofa At Home” community

What:

Creating Jofa At Home chapters

Across North America and around the world

Launch at Jofa Conference (start with 5-8 communities)

Run 4 in-person programs + participate 2 online programs

A Jofa At Home gathering is a chance to use Jofa’s resources and toolkits to bring together friends, colleagues, and community members for open and thoughtful conversation. Each gathering is grounded in Jewish Orthodox feminist ideas and can focus on personal stories, halakhic questions, Torah learning, or shared experiences.

Invite a Small Group

Aim for 6–12 participants. Choose people who bring diverse perspectives and a willingness to engage honestly and respectfully. Share Jofa’s resources in advance so everyone arrives with a shared foundation.

Choose a Comfortable Space

A living room, beit midrash, synagogue sanctuary or communal meeting space can work well. The key is to create an atmosphere where participants feel safe, seen, and heard. Arrange seating in a circle or close cluster to encourage conversation.

Set the Tone

Begin by welcoming everyone and sharing why you wanted to host this gathering. Set clear expectations for respectful dialogue. It’s okay to disagree, as long as it’s done with care. Emphasize curiosity, listening, and a shared commitment to equity and halakhic integrity.

Facilitate Thoughtfully

Open with a summary or quote from a reading, and pose 2–3 open-ended questions. Good starting points include: What resonated with you in this piece? How does this connect to your lived experience? Let the conversation flow, but gently steer if needed. Invite quieter voices and pause when appropriate to reflect.

Close with Reflection

Before ending, ask each person to share a takeaway, question, or next step. Thank everyone for participating.

Follow Up

If you host a gathering, we’d love to hear about it! Send a brief note, photo, or reflection to jordana@jofa.org.
Find more resources at JOFA.org.