My Work, Published Writing

Telling the story of Avodah’s alumni

Marissa Smith-Kenny

Since joining the Avodah team in March, I have made it a point to highlight the accomplishments of the organization's program alumni on a regular basis, telling the story of their journeys from their Avodah participation to now. Commonly, these stories discuss how Avodah’s curriculum and program structure has spurred them in their paths to career… Continue reading Telling the story of Avodah’s alumni

Diversity, Equity + Inclusion, My Work, Published Writing

Gratitude is not Enough: Accountability and Action on Thanksgiving

Marissa Smith-Kenny

The following piece was written for Avodah and was originally published here. As the name implies, Thanksgiving is traditionally a holiday about gratitude. While acknowledging the things we are grateful for is important, the gathering of friends and family also provides an opportunity for critical conversations on accountability.  From as early as elementary school, many… Continue reading Gratitude is not Enough: Accountability and Action on Thanksgiving

Public Relations, Published Writing

Avodah NOLA Corps Member Ellie Moskowitz Kicks Off Service Year with Hurricane Relief Efforts

Marissa Smith-Kenny

The following article was written on behalf of Avodah and originally published here. Late this summer, we celebrated the graduation of our 2020-2021 Corps Members and prepared to welcome a new cohort across six bayitim (houses) in five cities. In addition to new Service Corps programming in San Diego and our Jews of Color Bayit in New York, our New Orleans (NOLA) team… Continue reading Avodah NOLA Corps Member Ellie Moskowitz Kicks Off Service Year with Hurricane Relief Efforts

Consulting Work, Diversity, Equity + Inclusion

Contract Work: Women Equity Brunch Indy

Marissa Smith-Kenny

In late September, I received a call from a friend and former supervisor I hadn't talked to in quite a while, Amanda. She told me that she and a colleague were planning a special event for November. They realized they needed someone to manage the event's Instagram campaign, and she knew to call me. I… Continue reading Contract Work: Women Equity Brunch Indy

Public Relations, Published Writing

Civilian Oversight of Chicago Police: Avodah Alumni and Partners Secure Major Win for Public Safety

Marissa Smith-Kenny

The following post was written on behalf of Avodah and originally published here. After years of community actions and meetings in Chicago, the Empowering Communities for Public Safety (ECPS) ordinance passed recently, creating the most comprehensive civilian oversight of a police department in the country.  ECPS is designed to create a system of accountability for… Continue reading Civilian Oversight of Chicago Police: Avodah Alumni and Partners Secure Major Win for Public Safety