Directors of outreach and engagement: assessing an emergent phenomenon in Jewish federations of North America

Big Tent Judaism (formerly Jewish Outreach Institute) seeks to engage, support, and advocate for “all those who would cast their lot with the Jewish people, regardless of prior knowledge or background.” The Capstone team partnered with Big Tent Judaism to research and assess the emergent phenomenon of Engagement and Outreach professionals at Jewish federations across North America—one of the fastest growing positions in the Jewish communal sector. The Capstone team reviewed existing research, interviewed 26 professionals, created a survey, and produced a final report of findings. The work will help Big Tent Judaism better understand best practices and emerging trends in the field, and ultimately allow them to better advise and support Jewish institutions and agencies.