Union for Reform Judaism

The Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) is the central organization of Reform Judaism in North America, representing nearly 900 member congregations and reaching more than 2 million people. Founded in Cincinnati in 1873 by Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise, the URJ has grown into the largest and most diverse Jewish movement on the continent, uniting synagogues, clergy, educators, and lay leaders in pursuit of a shared Jewish vision.

The URJ provides vision and voice to build vibrant and creative communities, offering resources in congregational leadership, Jewish education, camping, teen engagement, social justice, and more. Its network includes 14 overnight summer camps, NFTY (the Reform Jewish Youth Movement), and the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, which advocates on civil rights and social policy issues from Washington, DC.

Grounded in the values of inclusion, justice, and compassion, the URJ works to deepen people’s engagement in Jewish life while uniting thousands of years of tradition with modern experience. Headquartered in New York City, the organization supports congregations across the United States and Canada and partners with the broader World Union for Progressive Judaism.