Jewish Maine

The 2024 Community Study


Driven by cutting-edge methodology, social science researchers at Brandeis University's Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies have generated a current-day portrait of characteristics, attitudes, and behaviors reflected by the wide spectrum of Jewish-identifying individuals in Maine. The results are illuminating and will help chart the path toward creating the most inclusive, vibrant, and welcoming Jewish community possible.


We invite you to join the community in embarking upon a journey of learning, reflection, connection, and transformation. We look forward to sharing the journey toward a stronger, better-connected, and more dynamic Jewish community ahead.


About the Study

Study Findings

Connect

Infographics

History & Background

In 2007, the JCA completed a Jewish Community Study to better understand the size of the Southern Maine Jewish community and gather demographic information related to religious affiliation, age, economic security, and community needs. The findings provided a strong foundation for strategic planning, guided the development of our current JCA facility, and informed resource allocation for nearly 15 years.


Communities evolve, and demographic studies are typically reliable for about a decade. With significant changes in recent years—especially in the post-COVID landscape—it became clear that a new study was needed. The JCA has therefore partnered with the Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies (CMJS) at Brandeis University to conduct the 2024 Community Study of Maine’s Jewish community.


The results of this study will help the JCA and partners across the state make informed, data-driven decisions for the future. They will also provide essential insight into the effectiveness of our current structure and offerings. Our goal is to engage the full breadth of Maine’s Jewish community as we work together to envision and build a vibrant, dynamic future.



Community Events

Jewish Maine: Highlights from the 2024 Community Study

Watch the Session Recording

Together with the Center for Small Town Jewish Life at Colby College, the Sam L. Cohen Foundation, and Lisa Gorman, the JCA is thrilled to share the results of the 2024 Community Study.