United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ) has recognized our shul’s Lunch and Learn program with a 2021 Visionary Award. Synagogues across the nation submitted more than 50 applications in response to the call for entries detailing how synagogue programs could be transitioned from Covid-era ideas to hybrid ideas in preparation for the re-opening of synagogue buildings. Our submission indicated that once our building re-opens, we could invite speakers and a limited number of congregants and guests to attend in-person for the program and lunch. At the same time, Lunch and Learn would continue on Zoom so that those home-bound, traveling, or without transportation could continue to enjoy the weekly programs virtually.

The judges cited three ideas in each of three categories — Learning, Program, and Ritual. Lunch and Learn is one of the three award winners in the Learning category. The recognition earns Lunch a Learn a featured spot at an upcoming webinar dedicated to recognizing and sharing all of the award-winning ideas. The concepts may be shared throughout the USCJ network in articles, interviews, and social media venues.

The Lunch and Learn concept was suggested by Rabbi Gadi and Sara Bloom as a way to keep our members connected to the shul and to each other when Covid risks closed the shul building. The program was further developed and coordinated by shul president Judith K. Weiner with technical assistance from the shul’s office assistant Andrea Blaga. All were instrumental in developing the submission to the USCJ.