In This Section
The work our members do is sacred and exhilarating. It is also difficult, stressful, and, in some cases, solitary. One of NATA's highest priorities is providing our members with emotional and practical support we all need as we navigate the oys and joys of serving our communities as synagogue executives.
This support is offered in a variety of ways by people who have been where you are and are willing to share their experiences to help you along your path.
Onboarding Coach
NATA membership carries with it access to of support, professional development, and career advancement opportunities. The purpose of the Onboarding Coach Program is to help new members connect as quickly as possible so that they may take full advantage of all that NATA has to offer.
Onboarding Coaches:
- Provide information and answer questions about NATA programs and benefits.
- Help facilitate connections with other NATA members and regional groups.
- Explore opportunities for volunteering.
- Serve as a conference buddy for new members attending for the first time.
Open Forums
Zoom Chats
Every congregation is distinct and different and yet all Executive Directors and Temple Administrators face similar challenges. Open Forums provide ongoing opportunities to engage with colleagues from across the country to share concerns and offer solutions to the issues you may be facing. They are also a wonderful chance to make connections or build upon the ones you have already established.
At our monthly Zoom chats, members submit topics for discussion ahead of time or suggest topics at the beginning of the meeting. Attendees are able to self-select a breakout room based on what topics are of the most interest and are able to move in and out of discussion rooms to make the most of their time.
NATA-Net
NATA members also have access to a private online collaborative network on Yammer, called NATA-Net. Within this member-to-member network you can join and follow groups of interest, post questions, search for member posted resources, and join discussions on a wide variety of topics.
Mentoring
The NATA Mentorship Program is designed to pair new executives or those who need support in one or more areas with experienced colleagues who can share their knowledge and experience.
Mentors are matched with mentees based on a variety of factors, including the needs of the mentees, to ensure a successful and effective relationship. These relationships may be structured as long- or short-term depending on what the mentee requests and needs.
To provide the broadest array of support possible, multiple mentors may be utilized to make sure appropriate support is available for all areas of concerns.
If you would like to learn more about the Mentorship program, either to volunteer as a mentor or to request support, please login to the MemberHub and submit the Mentor Request or Mentor Volunteer form found in the Resources section.
Member-to-Member Support
Unlike the ongoing Mentorship program, NATA's Member-to-Member support program draws on the knowledge and experience of peer colleagues who are available to offer support when a NATA member is facing a specific difficult or challenging situation in their workplace.
This might include issues with leadership, boards, colleagues, members or supervisors; contract/employment negotiations; navigating tricky situations; or issues that may be affecting work/life balance.
While NATA cannot offer legal advice, we can offer a shoulder to lean on and often point you in the right direction. To request support, contact the NATA office. All requests and support are confidential.