Throughout the modern Diaspora, Jewish communities have seen a significant attrition in their numbers through intermarriage and assimilation. At the same time, wherever highly motivated, energetic, capable people who have a high level of Torah education have invested efforts in these communities, the results have been very encouraging in raising the level of identity and pride in being Jewish. What has become quite clear is that high caliber, Jewish leadership is the single most significant factor in generating growth and vibrancy in communities; even in communities which had never experienced strength and dynamism in their past histories.

The Ner LeElef Institute was established in order to create the quality leadership necessary to help develop and guide these communities effectively. Since its inception in 1998, and now with just under 1200 graduates in the field, Ner LeElef has established itself as a major force working to stem the tide of assimilation and in promoting Jewish literacy and vibrancy. It is the single largest source of Jewish leadership training in the world, thereby providing critical manpower and resources worldwide to the Rabbinate, Jewish Educational institutions at all age levels, and outreach to the growing numbers of Jews who have no affiliation with any Jewish institution. Ner Le’Elef seeks to develop and focus the passion and talents of those who could become Jewish leaders. These Jews possess a deep love for Jews and Judaism, a deep and broad knowledge of our culture and heritage, with the ability to effectively transmit this knowledge and passion to others. Furthermore, they have a serious commitment to rebuilding Jewish life on a global scale, community by community.