The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) has announced the launch of the JTS Seeds of Innovation Project, a program that will provide seed funding for groundbreaking new initiatives developed by JTS alumni. This program will support ideas that benefit the larger Jewish community through empowering organizations and projects launched by JTS alumni to maximize fresh and innovative Jewish engagement.

Seven Wells, an initiative founded by Rabbi Jessica Minnen (a 2013 alumna of The Rabbinical School of JTS), is the first JTS Innovation Project, as recipients of the award are called. Seven Wells invites young adults in their 20s and 30s to explore intimacy, relationships, and sexuality through a Jewish framework. Seven Wells combines text study, personal reflection, group activities, and moderated discussion to create an intellectually rigorous and spiritually resonant space for young adults to question who they are and what they want – and don’t want – from relationships.

The JTS Seeds of Innovation Project will provide recipients with additional support such as publicity, space needs, strategy, and legal assistance. Recipients are determined by a selection committee, which includes JTS alumni, chaired by the executive vice chancellor. Eligible programs may be synagogue-based, organization-based, or independent; must be intended to have an impact on the Jewish community; and have clear-cut leadership and goals. To find out how to submit a project for consideration, visit www.jtsa.edu/seedsofinnovation