JCVT AT 13: Building Jewish Community, One Connection at a Time

As JCVT celebrates its 13th year—our B Mitzvah year—we are reflecting on what it means to support and sustain Jewish life across Vermont.

JCVT is Vermont's statewide Jewish organization, connecting people, strengthening local communities, and creating opportunities for Jewish life beyond the walls of synagogues and established organizations. We work with Jewish communities across the state while reaching individuals and families who may not yet have found one.

And sometimes, one connection becomes something more.

When Shira returned to Vermont after 15 years away, she was raising a young family and wondering what Jewish life here could look like.

“I kept asking: Where are the other Jewish families?”

With support from JCVT, PJ Library, and a local rabbi, Shira began finding them. Families gathered, friendships formed, and a small havurah grew.

“It really took off, and suddenly I didn’t feel so alone anymore.”

Those relationships have sustained families through celebrations and difficult times, especially since October 7.

“I feel confident that this kind of DIY Judaism is actually a gift. There is something powerful about creating the Jewish community you need.

For 13 years, that's what JCVT has helped make possible.

Across Vermont, JCVT connects people with one another, brings communities and organizations together, and helps local ideas grow into lasting Jewish experiences.
Through statewide communications, PJ Library, community gatherings, partnerships, and support for grassroots initiatives, we help make Jewish life more accessible, visible, and connected.

As Shira puts it: “For the first time since coming home, I didn’t feel alone in trying to build a Jewish life here.
JCVT has been part of that journey for me for almost a decade, a backbone to lean on, on the best days and also on the worst ones.”

As we mark JCVT’s 13th year, we're sharing stories like Shira’s while building the strong, sustainable, and collaborative statewide infrastructure of Jewish life that Vermont needs for generations to come.

Your support helps ensure that wherever someone lives in Vermont, they can find Jewish community or make Jewish community and they don’t have to do it alone.

Support JCVT at 13 — Donate Today

Thank you for helping us begin JCVT's next chapter!

Has JCVT made a difference in your life? We'd love to hear your story!