Welcome from the JAM Director!

Shalom!

Summer JAM is a fantastic opportunity to spend the summer in Washington D.C., learning about critical social justice issues and debating policy from a Jewish perspective. You will be part of a buzzing, warm, pluralistic Jewish community while volunteering in a variety of meaningful ways in the broader D.C. community.

At PANIM, we integrate in-depth study of Jewish texts and values with thought-provoking speakers from a spectrum of D.C.-based organizations to help you become an informed, educated Jewish activist. You will have the opportunity to lobby on Capitol Hill and meet representatives working on the issues you care about. You will form intense friendships and will know that your community is comprised of young adults who care about their society and are taking active steps to improve it.

Summer JAM will inspire you to make a difference in the world and will give you the tools to do just that.

In Jewish tradition, while it is important to debate and study, taking action is most important. As it says in the Talmud, the way for us to know God is to be compassionate: clothing the naked; visiting the sick and providing for those in need who aren't able to thank us. (B. Talmud, Tractate Sotah 14a). At PANIM, we say that America gives us the opportunity to make a difference, while Judaism demands it.

At Summer JAM 2007 you will translate thought into action and change the world!

Debbie Jacobson-Maisels
Director of Summer JAM