Project Lead, Emerging Communities

Jewish Federations of Canada – United Israel Appeal (JFC-UIA), working closely in conjunction with UJA Federation of Greater Toronto (UJA Fed) is seeking a full-time professional to launch and guide an initiative focused on strengthening Jewish life in small communities, with a particular focus on small Jewish communities across Ontario and in the GTA’s surrounding regions. This role will establish the foundation for long-term growth by building relationships, designing a connector model, and piloting engagement activities to fill identified gaps in small unfederated communities. The Project Lead will help recruit and support part-time community connectors in priority locations. The Project Lead will also engage representatives/leaders of small communities across the province and country, online and otherwise, to build connections for information sharing and best practices. Key Responsibilities Launch and Strategy Map Ontario’s small Jewish communities and assess local needs and opportunities. Develop a phased engagement plan, starting with a small number of communities and scaling over time. Establish criteria for selecting and placing community connectors. Relationship Building Build trust and relationships with grassroots leaders, families, rabbis, educators, and newcomers in small communities. Serve as the initial national federation system point of contact for small communities, ensuring connection to resources, programs, and support. In Ontario, the connection will be most focused on UJA Fed, which will provide support to the Project lead. Program and Connector Support Pilot small-scale community programming (e.g., holiday events, speakers, PJ Library, newcomer welcomes). Begin recruiting, onboarding, and mentoring part-time local connectors who will sustain programming and engagement in their own communities. Liaise with one or two other federations servicing various other small communities to ensure accountability for national funding, and information sharing. Capacity Building Support emerging lay leadership by identifying, coaching, and mobilizing volunteers, including leaders and those with leadership potential. Connect communities to UJA Fed and national federation system resources in advocacy (including CIJA engagement and support), security, education, and Israel engagement. Included in Israel engagement is encouraging more participation from small communities in programs such as Birthright Israel and March of the Living. National convening of small community leadership, for connection and sharing best practices. Sustainability and Growth Work with JFC-UIA and UJA colleagues to build a funding plan for connectors and ongoing community support, while also enhancing funding within communities. Through engagement, build an awareness of UJA Fed and the national federation system, as meriting financial support. Coordinate and access available resources/grants/services, from time to time, available from third party organizations, government, and other sources. Track progress and share learnings to inform expansion into additional communities. Qualifications 5–7 years of experience in Jewish communal service, nonprofit work, or community development. A passion for Jewish life and community. Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills; ability to engage diverse stakeholders and listen and understand their needs. Proven ability to fundraise, and interest in fundraising, are a plus. Entrepreneurial and resourceful — able to start small and grow strategically. Comfort with mentoring part‑time staff/volunteers in remote communities. Familiarity with Jewish programs and community infrastructure. Willingness to travel occasionally within Ontario. Location Based in Toronto, with availability for regional travel, as needed. Hours Full‑time, with flexibility for some evening and Sunday work, on occasion. Reporting Reports to JFC-UIA CEO on overall matters, and UJA Fed and Jhub, Director of Young Family and Senior Programs team, in close collaboration on Ontario matters.. Compensation Compensation will be commensurate with experience and comparable positions. A benefits package is included. How to Apply Interested candidates are invited to submit their application. Please include the following in your application: A cover letter detailing your interest in the role and relevant experience. Applications can be submitted via email to Subana Saieesan at JFC-UIA at by December 15, 2025. Please use the subject line: " Project Lead, Emerging Communities – [Your Name]". We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. #J-18808-Ljbffr