Tikkun Olam Network

“And the work of tzedakah shall bring peace.” – Isaiah 32:17″

Some people call it Social Action, but we as Jews call it Tikkun Olam—our effort to repair the world, which is our obligation (and honor) to attempt. Our network of congregants works together as a group on dedicated projects and individually on causes we care about.  Join us for one of our monthly meetings where we share our progress and plan new work, join us for one of our events, or browse our list of community partners to find your own personal or family project.

The Temple does not support political candidates or parties, but sometimes we advocate for causes that are aligned with our values and beliefs.

Upcoming Events

Community Partners

Our network of volunteers has developed ongoing partnerships with many local community organizations, at a synagogue-wide level, a smaller group level, and–most importantly–at a personal level.
If you have questions about working with any of these groups after you visit their websites, or if you need help making contact, please contact one of the TON co-chairs, Liz Stoller or Beth Allen.

ACCT Philly

ACCT Philly’s mission is to provide shelter, care, and life saving efforts for homeless, abandoned, and abused animals and to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Philadelphia. ACCT welcomes volunteers as well as donations from their online wish lists and financial contributions—and of course, new forever homes for their adoptable cats and dogs.

ARDMORE FOOD PANTRY

The food pantry serves our neighbors who need assistance with feeding their families and providing basic toiletry and hygiene needs.  Everything they provide to their guests is acquired solely through in-kind and financial donations.  You can help by holding a food drive, participating in their Sponsor-A-Bag program, volunteering, donating food, or making a financial donation.

BOX LUNCH & A BOOK

Box Lunch & A Book is a community initiative to freely provide nutritious lunches and reading enrichment during the summer for children ages K-12. You can help Box Lunch & a Book provide another summer of free literacy, workshops (arts & crafts, science, languages and more), special events, and great lunches by volunteering or making donations.

CRADLES TO CRAYONS

Cradles to Crayons provides children from birth through age 12, living in homeless or low-income situations, with the essential items they need to thrive – at home, at school and at play. You can help local children through financial donations, donations of clothing, volunteering, or hosting a donation drive.

FAMILIES FORWARD PHILADELPHIA

Families Forward Philadelphia is dedicated to the mission of providing information, advice, guidance, protection and shelter by meeting the needs of Philadelphia’s homeless families.  Families Forward is unique in their dedication to keeping families intact by welcoming men and teen boys. You can help children and their parents by volunteering or providing donations.

HAR HASETIM / GLADWYNE JEWISH MEMORIAL CEMETERY

Har Hasetim is a six-acre cemetery which was in use from 1890 to 1945 by Jewish burial societies. ​The mission of the Friends of the Gladwyne Jewish Memorial Cemetery is to ensure dignity for those interred at Har Hasetim and their families while honoring the historical, cultural and natural significance of the site. You can help by contacting them to volunteer with your group or as an individual, attending a special event or tour, becoming a member, or making a donation.

HIAS-PA

HIAS Pennsylvania provides legal, resettlement, citizenship, and supportive services to immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers from all backgrounds in order to ensure their fair treatment and full integration into American society. HIAS Pennsylvania advocates for just and inclusive practices. To support their work, you can donate, volunteer, or participate in political advocacy.

MITZVAH CIRCLE FOUNDATION

Mitzvah Circle supports individuals and families experiencing poverty, homelessness, and serious illness. They serve those walking along life’s edge by providing individualized material support.  Please help support their work by providing donations (financial or material) or volunteering.

NARBERTH COMMUNITY FOOD BANK

The food bank provides food to people in our community who need assistance.  It operates with the generous support of the Narberth and Lower Merion communities.  The food bank welcomes individual and group volunteers, as well as food donations and financial contributions.

JEWISH RELIEF AGENCY

Jewish Relief Agency serves over 6,000 diverse low-income individuals across Greater Philadelphia by relieving hunger, improving lives, and strengthening our community.  There are many opportunities for volunteers of all ages and abilities.  Financial contributions are also welcomed.

SAUNDERS HOUSE         

Saunders House offers a range of services to seniors, including short-term rehabilitation therapy, traditional nursing care, restorative care, memory care, respite care and specialized care for individuals with visual impairments.  We have had success offering interactive programs to residents; financial contributions are also welcome.

WEPAC

WePAC has reopened previously closed school libraries across West and Southwest Philadelphia and the East Falls/Roxborough area. During the 2019-2020 school year, they are bringing library services to nearly 5,000 students in 14 schools.  WePAC welcomes library volunteers, donations of books, and financial support.

WOMEN OF CHANGE

Women of Change is a safe haven residence for women, where residents are offered service coordination, personal recovery services, healthcare, education, social enterprise and employment opportunities.  The residence is part of Project Home, where there are opportunities to donate, volunteer and participate in political advocacy work.