Am Shalom Congregation is a Canadian nonprofit organization and Reform Jewish synagogue located in Barrie, Ontario, serving the Simcoe County area. It operates as a modern Reform congregation dedicated to providing spiritual enrichment, education, and community engagement to the local Jewish population.

Overview

Am Shalom Congregation is affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism and serves as a religious, cultural, and social hub for approximately 75 families in the region. The congregation emphasizes Jewish values such as knowledge, social responsibility, and caring for present and future generations. It offers regular Shabbat services, observance of major Jewish holidays, and a variety of educational programs for both children and adults. The congregation strives to foster a welcoming atmosphere and is actively involved in interfaith dialogue and community outreach initiatives.

Community and Social Action

The congregation is committed to social action both within the Jewish community and the broader Barrie/Simcoe County area. It supports local organizations including the Barrie Food Bank, Gilda’s Club, Out of The Cold, and participates in programs like the Jewish National Fund (JNF) and the Yom Hashoah Yellow Candle Program. Members contribute through volunteer activities such as fundraising at Delta Bingo and organizing community events.

Regular community events include social gatherings like Grey Cup parties, fishing trips, spa days, movie nights, guest speaker sessions, annual Chai Tea, dances, and a golf tournament. These activities aim to build bonds of friendship and strengthen communal ties.

Programs and Funds

Am Shalom offers various funds to support its mission and community work:

• Clergy Discretionary Fund: Assists those in need as directed by the clergy.
• Dan and Karen Lee Library and Technology Fund: Maintains and expands the congregation’s library and technology resources.
• Ed Alpert Social Action Fund: Supports social action programs both locally and in the wider community.
• Education Fund: Provides enriching educational opportunities and scholarships for youth, including summer camp and Israel travel.
• Endowment Fund: Ensures long-term financial stability.
• Fanchon Simons’ Feeding the Hungry Fund: Supports a monthly program where volunteers prepare and deliver lunches to those in need.
• General Fund: Helps with day-to-day operations of the congregation.

Donations and fundraising efforts help sustain these initiatives and maintain the congregation's facilities and programs.

Leadership and Membership

Am Shalom is led by a spiritual leader and supported by an active board and administration. The synagogue encourages new members to join its community and participate in its diverse range of religious, educational, and social activities.

History and Identity

Originally known as the Simcoe County Jewish Association, Am Shalom has established itself as the central institution for Jewish life in the region. Its identity as a Reform congregation reflects a commitment to contemporary Jewish practice that is inclusive, progressive, and socially conscious.

This summary is based on information sourced from Am Shalom Congregation’s official communications and community profiles.[1][2][4][5]