Tzedeq
Congregation Kol Ami’s Social Justice Committee’s mission is to meet our responsibility toward tikkun olam (repairing the world) through learning and direct action; to provide opportunities for the congregation to learn about and act upon musar—our ethical responsibilities as Jews in the urban community of Greater Kansas City and the world beyond. Contact Rabbi Doug Alpert with any questions.
Activities
The Garden
Kol Ami has been invited by the City of Kansas City, Missouri, to help tend the Manheim Park Commmunity Garden at 42nd and Forest. We’re working with the Historic Manheim Park Neighborhood Association and Kansas City Community Gardens to repair the garden and distribute the produce. Tomatoes, peppers, squash and beans have been planted, and volunteer gardeners are needed. For information, contact Steve Sackin.
Harvesters Community Food Network
Congregration Kol Ami volunteers at Harvesters, Kansas City area’s food bank, to help feed the people of our community. We sort food and pack food backpacks, so that the area’s schoolchildren and their families will have nutritious food available during the weekend. www.harvesters.org
Jewish Family Services of Greater Kansas City
The congregation participates in food drives during holidays and throughout the year, as well as adopting individuals or families during holidays. www.jfskc.org
LGBT Advocacy and Support
Congregation Kol Ami co-sponsored and organized the visit of noted Jewish author, scholar and activist, Jay Michaelson, on February 21, 2012 at Kansas City’s LGBT community center, the LIKEME® Lighthouse, to discuss his book, God vs. Gay? The Religious Case for Equality. www.jaymichaelson.net/godvsgay
Rabbi Alpert has represented the Jewish voice by speaking at the 2012 and 2013 Kansas City gay pride interfaith services.
- National Jewish LGBTQ resources:
- Local LGBTQ resources:
- LGBTQ resources for college students:
Social Justice Coffees & Events
The Social Justice Committee will hold quarterly coffees to explore social justice issues that Rabbi Alpert is involved with throughout the community. Rabbi Alpert has been an integral member of MORE², Missouri Faith Voices and Jobs with Justice, and will present his view of how Jewish values and ethics are the foundation of his commitment. While some discussion is expected, the purpose of this get-together is to learn about Rabbi Alpert’s commitment with these issues. Participants will be encouraged to reach out to the Rabbi at a later date with individual comments and concerns. Stay tuned for new dates.