Get Involved in Justice & Action
Tikkun olam, the sacred call to repair our world, is at the heart of Temple Beth El. Whether you’re looking to lend a hand, lift your voice, or deepen your learning, there’s a place for you here. Together, we serve our community, stand up for justice, and build a better world—one mitzvah at a time.
Questions? Contact Nicole Sidman, Director of Congregational Life.
Quick Links
Our Mission and Vision
Mission Statement
Our mission is to coordinate the efforts of Temple Beth El members to live out the Reform Jewish value of tikkun olam by providing opportunities to engage in social justice and action efforts, and to work toward systemic change in our community.
Vision Statement
We envision a congregation where repairing the world is second nature, where young and old alike work side by side to assist our neighbors in need, and where social justice and social action efforts are integrated into all aspects of Temple life. Temple Beth El will be known within the Charlotte community and the North American Jewish community as a powerful force for fostering social action and pursuing social justice and systemic change.
Ways to Get Involved
There’s no one way to show up. Whether you’re interested in rolling up your sleeves, speaking out, or showing up in solidarity, you’ll find a meaningful way to make a difference.
Volunteer Locally
Explore direct-service opportunities that support our neighbors in real, tangible ways.
Advocate for Justice
Engage in policy work and community organizing around issues that matter—voting rights, reproductive justice, and more.
Community Partnerships
We make it easy to jump in through year-round service opportunities across Charlotte.
Volunteer Opportunities & Community Partners
Giving your time is a mitzvah. Whether you’re tutoring a student, planting in the Shalom Park garden, or welcoming guests at Shabbat services, your presence makes an impact.
Abraham’s Tent
Help provide winter shelter and meals for neighbors experiencing homelessness through our interfaith partnership with Roof Above, Temple Israel, and the Muslim community. Contact Patty Torcellini.
Sterling Elementary School Partnership
Support students and educators at our partner school through reading buddies, tutoring, or helping with classroom needs. Contact Ruth Pordes, TBE-SES Partnership Liason.
Heart Math Tutoring
Support a local student’s math skills and confidence—no experience required. One hour per week.
The Giving Tree
Help us fulfill holiday gift wish lists for Sterling families identified by school staff. Stay tuned for more information.
JCRI: Jewish Community Refugee Initiative
Support newly arrived refugee families through mentoring, donation drives, and advocacy. Contact Amy Lefkof.
Shalom Green
Join a community committed to sustainability and stewardship, including garden work and environmental education.
Helping Education
Advance educational equity with research-based learning interventions and support.
Augustine Literacy Project
Provide free, long-term literacy tutoring to students in under-resourced schools.
Congregational Initiatives
Our Social Justice and Action Committee identifies focus areas each year—issues where our values and our voices can make a real impact. From advocacy to education, our initiatives offer opportunities to work toward systemic change.
Reproductive Justice
Rooted in the Jewish value of pikuach nefesh—preserving life—our congregation affirms the right to reproductive freedom and access to care.
MLK Weekend & Justice Shabbat
We honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with a meaningful Shabbat experience and participation in Charlotte’s MLK March.
Civic Engagement
Your voice matters. We help you register, vote, and understand new voter ID laws. We also provide tools to support others in exercising their rights.
