Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life

Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life is a prominent US nonprofit organization focused on enriching the lives of Jewish students on college campuses. While specific details about the local chapter associated with the EIN 850481051 are not provided here, Hillel as an international organization is a leading entity in supporting Jewish life globally.

Overview

Hillel International, the umbrella organization, was founded in 1923 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Established by Edward Chauncey Baldwin, a Christian professor, and Rabbi Benjamin Frankel, Hillel aims to provide a haven for Jewish students to explore their identity and engage with Jewish traditions on campus[3][4].

Mission and Vision

Hillel's mission is to "enrich the lives of Jewish students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world." Its vision is "to inspire every student to make an enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning, and Israel"[5]. This mission is supported through various programs and events that promote Jewish learning, cultural activities, and community building.

History

Hillel's founding arose from a concern about the lack of organized Jewish life on campuses. Initially supported by B'nai B'rith in 1925, Hillel expanded rapidly under the leadership of figures like Abram Sachar[4]. Over the years, Hillel has evolved to embrace a pluralistic approach, welcoming students from diverse Jewish backgrounds and identities[4][5].

Activities and Programs

• Jewish Learning and Celebrations: Hillel provides opportunities for students to engage in Jewish study, celebrate Shabbat and other Jewish holidays, and participate in cultural events[5].
• Community Building: It fosters a sense of community among Jewish students, offering a supportive environment where they can connect with peers, explore their Jewish identity, and participate in leadership development[5].
• Israel Engagement: Hillel encourages students to explore their connection to Israel and supports programs related to Israel advocacy and education[5].

Impact

Today, Hillel is represented at more than 850 institutions globally, making it the largest Jewish student organization worldwide. It serves over 180,000 Jewish students annually, providing a diverse range of activities and programs tailored to different expressions of Jewish identity[3][5].

Local Chapters

While specific information about the local chapter with EIN 850481051 is not detailed here, local Hillel chapters typically mirror the international organization's mission by offering tailored programs to meet the unique needs of their campus communities.

References