Adventure Rabbi

Faced with the reality of modern America’s pull on young Jews today, Rabbi Jamie Korngold founded this unique organization which combines outdoor adventure with Jewish study and ritual. Because 70% of young Jews regularly miss synagogue, Adventure Rabbi experiments with ways to reach those who have found Judaism “to be spiritually unfulfilling, inaccessible or irrelevant. Often these Jews look to Buddhism to meet their spiritual and theological needs.” Adventure Rabbi provides a Jewish framework for these spiritual outdoor enthusiasts. 

Based in Boulder, CO, Adventure Rabbi facilitates weekly Shabbat hikes and ski trips where Saturday morning services are proffered out of handmade siddurim amid the Colorado wilderness. The absence of membership fees and sanctuary seat assignments encourage participation, and sensitivity to young Jews’ lifestyle increases the likelihood of repeat attendance. Without membership fees, however, Adventure Rabbi struggles to meet the demand for over-subscribed programs. 

Rabbi Korngold has become a positive Jewish role model for many and often officiates at weddings, baby naming’s, and other rituals appropriate to this age cohort. This organization has incredible potential; with a little support and guidance, this Rabbi could go for miles.