Young US Jews embrace Judaism informally despite limited communal participation – study

A new study, "Project Prism," by Sense Worldwide and the Jim Joseph Foundation, reveals that three out of four young Jewish adults (ages 22-30) in the US regularly incorporate Judaism into their daily lives, despite many not participating in formal communal life. The study, involving over 2,000 individuals, found that informal activities like celebrating holidays, enjoying Jewish food, or discussing Jewish topics are stronger predictors of connection and purpose than organizational involvement. Key factors hindering greater participation include a lack of existing connection, a desire for more flexible and manageable activities, and a need for spaces that allow for complex discussions without social pressure. Socially immersive experiences such as summer camps and Israel travel programs were found to be particularly successful in fostering a sense of belonging. Stacie Cherner, Director of Research and Learning at the Jim Joseph Foundation, stated, "The research gives us a much fuller and accurate understanding of where, how, and why Jewish young adults seek out and experience Jewish life."