Or Ami Awards: Submit Your Program Today!

What does it mean to “be a light?” These three words are packed with power, motivation, and inspiration. They are words that can prompt us to take action, to make a difference, and to shine from within.

I’ve used these three words a lot lately in my social feeds. Maybe because I’m reminding myself to be a light in this dark world. To be a light when I don’t feel like it. To be a light, even if that means feeling uncomfortable and awkward. Maybe it’s because, when I see these words, I remember that’s what we are called to do.

To have clarity, to be a guide, an example.

To provide guidance and a proper path to help someone to not stumble.  

Women of Reform Judaism is proud to be a shining star of light, providing the path for outstanding programming, and now it is time to shine a light on our superstars in this area. But first, we need you to apply to WRJ’s 2025 Or Ami Awards in Programming.      

Established in 1973, WRJ’s Or Ami “Light of My People” Award for special achievement in programming recognizes exemplary events that can serve as a model for other WRJ Districts and sisterhoods. These awards honor those WRJ-affiliated women’s groups, sisterhoods, and WRJ Districts undertaking replicable programs or projects of distinctive character and significance.    

Awards are given for programming in the following categories:

• Tikkun Olam – Social Justice
  • Based on recent or longstanding WRJ resolutions, initiatives, or action roadmaps
  • Based on interest or current need relevant to the mission of WRJ or the women's group
• Education
• Leadership Development
• Spirituality
• Interfaith and/or inter-religious
• Outreach to other groups
• Multi-generational programs  
• Youth
• Local congregation or community
• Existing WRJ/URJ initiatives
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion  
• Other

Prior winners have included programs such as: Relating to Our Planet: Environmental Justice, Shmita, and Making Positive Change; Building Bridges with Jewish Women Around the World; Voices of Freedom: A Multigenerational Pre-Seder Program; and Change Begins Here: Racial Justice Small Groups. Other winners have included programming events for teacher’s supplies and assistance, period poverty, climate change, reproductive rights, senior homelessness, and end-of-life care/legacies/estate planning.

Applications are currently being accepted for programs occurring between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. Applications must be submitted by July 31, 2025. All information, guidelines, and application instructions can be found on WRJ’s website.

Questions? Email Talia Blank, WRJ Program Associate, at TBlank@WRJ.org.