Thank you to Sam L. Cohen Foundation and Lisa Gorman for funding the recent demographic study of the southern Maine Jewish community. The study provides important data of great use to the JCA, local agencies, religious schools and the day school, temples and synagogues, as well as the members of our Jewish community served by these institutions. The study was conducted professionally using the latest scientific technology by Ira Sheskin, a professional  demographer affiliated with the University of Miami, who has conducted many similar studies around the country. The resulting document paints a current picture of our community, including: how many of us there are; our levels of Jewish observance, commitment, and education; our Jewish priorities; income and age levels; and the current demand for social services under Jewish auspices. The data will help point us to the future—toward a vision of a community that will work better to strengthen Jewish life in Southern Maine. The information will also assist us in assessing how wisely we are prioritizing the money we raise on behalf of our community.

Through its demographic study, the JCA will endeavor to identify and engage its constituency. Working with its recipient agencies, the JCA’s goal is to then create a renewed interest and excitement in Judiasm’s tradition and community in partnership with Southern Maine’s Jewish communal agencies.

To read the summary of our demographic study, please click here.