From Darkness To Light

What is Makom

Launched in 2014 as a result of the positive impact of Keter, which led ex-hasidic Jews to approach JITC and ask for guidance, Makom helps disenfranchised Haredi Jews find a positive place in Orthodoxy. Social events, educational classes, Shabbos placement, Shabbatons, and one-on-one encouragement is offered to those seeking support. We call this moving from darkness to light and allows JITC to move from discussing the conflicts within parts of the Orthodox Jewish community to finding solutions for them. Through hundreds of events and classes, we have been able to transform the lives of countless Makom members in a positive way. This would not be possible without the positive impact of Keter and Tikun branches of JITC.

Why Makom is Important

• The only program that rehabilitates and re-educates disenfranchised Haredi Jews to help them find a positive place in Orthodoxy
• Reframes the OTD/ex-hasidic phenomenon to the world

Makom's Programs

• Social Events
  Makom provides a deep sense of community for those who are feeling isolated and out of step with their families and communities, suffering rejection for their differing views or lifestyle changes. Makom allows these individuals to interact and form friendships with others facing similar challenges. Makom runs monthly events, both in person and on zoom, where individuals can feel a sense of community and inclusion.
• Judaic Classes
  Makom’s classes offer insight into different areas of Jewish law and philosophy. Past classes have included: The Halachic Process, the Existence of God, A Rational Approach to Reading Torah, and Science and Torah.
• Career & Higher Education Based Events
  Makom makes referrals to GED and education training programs, ESL programs, and career counselors and offers classes on conducting a job search, on financial management, and college preparation.
• Shabbos Placement
  Makom sets up members with host families throughout the tri-state area for Shabbos and the Jewish holidays, where members can experience warm and inviting homes, with accepting hosts who model happiness, healthiness and love for Judaism.
• Shabbatons
  Shabbatons allow members to meet new families, new communities, fellow members and be inspired by engaging speakers.
• Follow-Up
  Makom has multiple staff members who follow-up monthly, checking in to offer support and encouragement.
• Ask the Scholar
  Makom allows individuals to ask anything they have been too afraid to ask, providing confidential answers from our trusted Rabbis. This allows searching individuals to get answers they need without feeling embarrassed or scared.
• Referrals to Social Service & Mental Health Organizations
  Makom’s support groups are managed by mental health professionals who are knowledgeable about the difficulties faced by those transitioning out of and into differing kinds of frum communities, and who understand the conflicts that such a transition entails. Makom also has the capacity to refer individuals to private counselors if needed.