We are excited to report on our community meeting of January 30, 2005, where we asked the question: What should Hadar look like in 3-5 years? This process started in December 2004, at a brainstorming meeting of the Leadership Team followed by emailed suggestions from dozens of people in the community. This culminated in the community meeting, which was attended by 55 people. Thanks to all who have contributed to this process so far. It is encouraging and inspiring to see the extent to which people in the community would like Hadar to grow.

At the community meeting, we discussed two major issues: (1) values of Hadar that we would like to continue going forward, and (2) specific program suggestions. Below is a summary of each.

I. Guiding Values of Hadar: We spent time brainstorming as a group some of the aspects of Hadar that are important to us to preserve or develop as we grow as a community. These were suggested in addition to the principles mentioned in the “About” section of our website. These values included: thoughtfulness, passion, wide participation, halachic commitment, respect for liturgy, inclusiveness, high quality, meaningful davening, non-judgmental atmosphere, excitement, lack of politics, grassroots feel, openness and warmth, and comfort experiencing the joy of religion.

II. Future Programs at Hadar: In advance of the meeting, we categorized the suggestions we received via email and the Leadership Team into five main groups: (1) Space, (2) Replication, (3) Community Building, (4) Intensifying Existing Experience, and (5) Education. At the community meeting, we divided up into groups to flesh out some of these ideas. Below is a summary of each group (see the bottom of the email for one additional subject: owning a Torah). While we did not reach final consensus on many of the suggestions, this was an important first step in the communal conversation.

• Space: The space group considered (1) improvements to the existing space (better lighting, better chairs) and (2) options for improved space in the future. The group reached consensus that all options should be explored for long-term viability, likely in another space. A new space was preferable because it could offer better ambiance, better light and accessibility for people with disabilities. In addition, a permanent space would help to build community and would provide flexibility for additional programming. The group suggested exploring potential new space in independent spaces (storefronts, co-op buildings) as well as partnerships with existing organizations.
  
  
• Replication: This group explored replicating aspects of Hadar in other communities outside New York. The group focused on davening, but also addressed other aspects of Hadar that people might be interested in replicating: social action, communal organization, etc. Members of the group emphasized that the goal of replication initiatives should be to assist those who contact us who are looking to create a community like Hadar elsewhere (not by proactively seeking “clients”). Specifically, the group recommended creating a directory of similar minyanim, training community members and others in skills for leading davening and organizing minyanim, inviting people to come to Hadar events (davening, retreats, etc.) and actively supporting Hadar members who move away in their efforts to replicate the Hadar experience.
  
  
• Community Building: The community-building group wanted to encourage more people to feel at home at Hadar and “take ownership” so that they will feel more comfortable welcoming others, especially newcomers. They felt that small groups and learning would foster this sense of ownership, as well as a deeper connection to each other. Most people also felt that age diversity is an important long-term value for Hadar, as the community grows.
  
  
• Education: This group suggested three major educational goals: (1) increase the Beit Midrash programming (2) create a more intense educational experience, perhaps through a multi-week learning program and (3) have a symposium (or a series of 1-day learning sessions) on issues relevant to the Hadar community (halachic, social action, etc). The group also emphasized that programming should work towards the goals of (1) creating a more educated Hadar community, and (2) developing (and attracting) teachers within/to the Hadar community.
  
  
• Intensifying Existing Experience: The group expressed interest in Hadar meeting more frequently, ideally through a combination of more Shabbat services and other Shabbat programming (study or visiting the sick). The group considered grassroots Friday night services loosely connected to Hadar as well. In addition, the group was enthusiastic about creating volunteer groups for bikkur cholim, shiva, yartzheit minyans, and life cycle events. It also considered having a rabbi for religious counseling or community purposes (not services). While the potential of two Hadar minyanim in different locations was discussed, consensus formed around continuing the one model for the foreseeable future.
  
  
• Hadar Community Torah: One of the exciting ideas raised during this meeting was owning a Torah. We are very enthusiastic about this idea. A Torah will strengthen and solidify our community, as well as simplify our logistics.