“When I first heard about JASA and the possibility of launching an afterschool program, I’ll admit, as the Director of the Religious School, I felt nervous and uncertain. I came to the finalist conference with mixed emotions. Would this take families away from Sunday School? Could a more immersive, daily Jewish experience truly offer something better than what we provide once a week? The answer, I now see, is yes and yes.

But more than anything, I left that first conference feeling inspired and energized by the vision you shared. It became clear how transformative an after-school program could be in engaging our kids, providing them with a safe and enriching space, and fostering real community through exceptional, values-driven experiences.

When we received the news that we had been selected to join Cohort III, the excitement was palpable. We are thrilled and deeply honored to be part of this journey.

This opportunity would not be possible without the incredible resources, coaching, workshops, and guidance you so generously provide. It truly feels like you are holding our hands through this process, sharing the “secret sauce,” and making something extraordinary feel possible.

Dayenu. All this alone would have been enough.

But still, you continue to give and support and dream even bigger for us. The possibilities now feel endless, and we are so deeply grateful.”

— Synagogue Executive Director and Cohort III Participant

“I came into the process eager to learn, but not fully confident in my ability to create such an expansive program on my own. What I didn’t realize at the beginning, was that I never was on my own. You held my hand and built both my skill sets and confidence week after week. You took everything I created and guided me to make it all infinitely better. And you did it with such patience, kindness, and wisdom. Our program is the beautiful, meaningful, effective after-school it is, thanks in large part to your vision and efforts.

Thank you for making this process so thoughtful, accessible, and manageable! You have designed a system that is so methodical and systematic that it never felt overwhelming or undoable. Bit by bit, I plugged away at budgets, marketing plans, websites, and more, only to turn around and find that I was running a successful business that I hope will continue to grow from strength to strength.

Our program has been such a bright light in our community. We literally changed lives there. I am so proud of what we’ve accomplished and built for our families. Teaching kids to read, building their confidence, and sense of identity and connection has been magical. I am so grateful for the opportunity and the tools to make this vision a reality.

Our community is so lucky to have you all building up Jewish families and menches and giving them such a safe and loving after-school space to call home.”

— Synagogue Afterschool Program Director and Cohort II Participant

“I am so grateful I was able to attend the JASA Conference this past week. I really feel like I was able to develop tools to help our synagogue’s new after-school program thrive, connect with colleagues across the country, and feel even more inspired about the impact of Jewish after-school programming.

This conference was such a gift. Now, I feel like I have even more resources and information to do this work effectively for the children, families, and staff involved.

Thank you and the whole JKG/JASA team for your thoughtful planning, programming, and facilitation.”

— Synagogue Afterschool Program Director and Cohort II Participant

“As I sit and reflect on my trip to Georgia, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the incredible experience you all created during the conference. It was more than just a professional gathering—it was a space filled with connection, inspiration, and genuine human warmth.

From the moment I arrived, there was a palpable sense of welcome. The environment you cultivated was safe, non-judgmental, and inviting—something that was deeply meaningful. I never once felt out of place or hesitant to speak, share, or simply be. That speaks volumes about the intentionality behind every detail of this event.

The connections made—both new and rekindled—felt organic and full of possibility. The conversations were rich, thoughtful, and energizing. The collaborative spirit in the room was something truly special. You sparked ideas, encouraged boldness, and reminded us of the power we have when we come together with authenticity and purpose.

There was laughter, there were smiles, and there was joy. The joy of learning. The joy of being heard. The joy of realizing we are part of something greater. It was magical. It was healing. And it left me with a profound sense of support and belonging that I will carry with me moving forward.

Thank you for pouring your hearts into this conference. Our work matters, and it makes a difference. I am walking away feeling recharged, seen, and inspired to continue the work we’re all so passionate about.”

— Synagogue Afterschool Program Director and Cohort II Participant