A reorganized Union is rooted in the many studies conducted over the past decade or more. While work was already underway to determine how best to restructure the Union the current economic crisis accelerated the process.

The mission of the Union for Reform Judaism is to provide vision, leadership and programmatic support to Reform Jewish congregations and to perpetuate and advance Reform Judaism. New technologies enable the Union to operate more effectively and efficiently as it tracks its work and regularly evaluates its efforts. Serving congregations and their members is the primary focus of every staff member. Collaborative work teams cut across specific areas of expertise and a new research and evaluation function enables the Union to lead with new ideas and vision. The staff is organized into three areas of focus, supported by a centralized administration.

Our operational model features some key service characteristics:

• Congregations have a proactive advocate who help them identify issues, navigate the system and ensure they receive the assistance they need
• A seamless continuum of services and programs provides congregations with excellent and comprehensive assistance
• Access to experts in a wide variety of specialties
• Stronger emphasis on people, relationships and affinity and less on geography
• Services and resources are based on the congregation's vision, priorities and emergent needs
• Grouping congregations by shared demographics, similar sizes and interests through affinity groups facilitates congregational networking and sharing of ideas and resources