Moishe House was created in Oakland, CA in January 2006 by David Cygielman, Moishe House CEO, and American philanthropist Morris Bear Squire. Two weeks after opening its first house in Oakland, a second house opened in San Francisco. The idea for Moishe House came from Cygielman's observation that there was a lack of programming options for Jews who had graduated from college but had not yet settled down with a family. To fill this void, Moishe House has developed a model for building vibrant, peer-based Jewish communities and learning opportunities designed for Jewish young adults in their 20s. From its inception until 2008, Moishe House was solely funded by Squire. In 2008, when Squire could no longer support the organization on his own, Cygielman secured non-profit 5013 charity tax status for Moishe House and the organization was then able to start receiving tax-deductible donations and grants.
The concept
Three to five young adults turn their home into a Moishe House with the financial assistance and guidance of the organization. In exchange for a rent subsidy, the residents agree to host a specific number of programs per month such as holiday celebrations, community service and social events. Moishe House aims to promote new Jewish leadership by providing young adults the opportunity to create and develop their own communities. Moishe House focuses on creating community for Jewish young adults by allowing residents to design and lead programs and activities that they deem relevant and interesting, without regard to a specific branch of Judaism. These programs include Shabbat dinners, social action activities, social events and more.
Impact
The recently published results of a two-year comprehensive evaluation conducted by The TCC Group and sponsored by the Jim Joseph Foundation found that Moishe House's model is having a profound impact on Jewish young adults internationally. The evaluation focused on both Moishe House residents’ and participants’ perceptions and opinions prior to becoming involved with Moishe House and since becoming involved. The percentage of participants who reported being aware of local opportunities for Jewish young adults to participate in fun and meaningful activities nearly doubled since becoming involved with Moishe House, while residents overwhelmingly noted that they have gained knowledge and skills related to Jewish traditions and customs. Moreover, residents’ affirmative responses more than tripled when asked if they consider themselves to be leaders in their Jewish community since becoming active in Moishe House. Both residents and participants feel more strongly about leading an active Jewish life since becoming involved with Moishe House. Moishe House also has an alumni program to keep former residents engaged in the Moishe House community.
Growth
There are more than 100 Moishe Houses in 25+ countries with over 300 residents. Administratively, there are 50+ staff members around the world and three central Moishe House offices:
US cities with at least one Moishe House include: Internationally, there is a Moishe House in:
Supporters
Originally funded solely by Morris B. Squire, Moishe House receives funding from around the world from thousands of individual donors and organizations, such as foundations and Jewish Federations. Moishe House also has a number of national partners.
