Nancy Kaufman to NCJW, and why I like this organization

JTA’s  Ron Kampeas has a nice profile of Nancy Kaufman, who’ll take the reins at the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) in January, and it reminded me why I like this organization.

In a communal world where so many groups try to be all things to all people or chase issues on the basis of what they think will appeal to big contributors, NCJW knows what it’s core mission is – women, children and families and the issues relating to them – and sticks to it.

Most Jewish groups can’t seem to resist the temptation to get into the Israel business, which is great for fundraising but creates a kind of communal clutter; NCJW’s focus is unapologetically domestic.

And a time when “social justice” is used as a slur by the Glenn Becks of the world, NCJW proudly proclaims its devotion to the cause – which probably explains the loyalty of its membership, coming as it does from a still-heavily-progressive Jewish community.

Go, Nancy, go!