Case Studies

Main Line Reform Temple

Main Line Reform Temple (Wynnewood, PA) is a reform synagogue in the suburbs of Philadelphia.  MLRT has long engaged in a process of building trust and community through constructive dialogue among its members.  These “Conversations” tend to focus on current events and other important topics for discussion.  Events around the country in 2020 led to growing concerns about of racism.  In early summer, the group had a discussion about lessons learned from a Facebook live presentation lead by “Black Men at Penn School of Social Work”.  A follow-up meeting was led by 3 members of TheALLIANCE’s Board of Advisors, Rev. Jonathan Ford, Marcus Allen, and Rabbi Earl Bowen, all on the subject , “what can the Jewish community do to assist the African-American community?”  Two initiatives resulted from these Conversations:

1. On October 24, 2020, MLRT congregants came together with members of the Taylor Tabernacle Church in West Philadelphia to distribute face masks and hand sanitizer for COVID protection, along with voting information regarding the upcoming US elections, to church members and local residents of their community. Over 300 gift bags were delivered that day, and pictures from this event are below.

2. Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Philadelphia is in need of more volunteer mentors to work with and provide guidance to the many children who are requesting assistance.  MLRT is in the process of recruiting congregants from it membership who may be interested in  serving as a Big Brother or Big Sister.  This activity is ongoing.