Congregation Ohr Shalom is proud to be a GreenFaith  sanctuary. GreenFaith is an interfaith program that inspires, educates and mobilizes people of diverse religious backgrounds for environmental leadership. In late 2016 we completed the rigorous, multiyear, guided journey in the world of stewardship and interfaith environmental work, leading to GreenFaith certification. As a result, the COS-SJCC building now has “smart” thermostats, active recycling, better insulation, improved water use, and integrated pest management. 

 

Rabbi Avi Friedman has taught from the pulpit about why we are commanded to care for the environment, and we have had guest speakers and amazing environmental programming. Outside our congregation, we are partnering with Moms Helping Moms, a local organization that addresses diaper and other infant/child needs through collections of diaper, wipes, and specific baby equipment, as well as gently used infant and children's clothing for children from birth to age 5. This addresses environmental concerns by keeping those clothes and equipment out of the waste stream.