Work To Create Communal Careers

Publication Date: June 2005

Publisher: Forward Association

Author(s): Shaul Kelner; Leonard Saxe

Research Area: Culture and religion; Labor

Keywords: Communal Organization; Employment; Management

Type: Other

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

This article is based on data from our multi-stage study of the Jewish sector workforce. Among American ethnic groups, Jewish-Americans are notable for the degree to which they have created an elaborate organizational infrastructure. In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the ability to maintain this infrastructure into the future, particularly given the perception that Jewish organizations are struggling to recruit and retain professional staff. We surveyed more than 1,400 employees of nearly 200 synagogues, day schools, federations and agencies in six communities in an attempt to understand whether Jewish organizations are doing well in their efforts to recruit, empower and retain talented personnel. [BREAK]The Forward, June 3, 2005.