Sharsheret’s customized trainings equip Jewish leaders to respond to the breast and ovarian cancer health crisis.
(Courtesy of Sharsheret) Sharsheret, the only not-for-profit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of women and families of all Jewish backgrounds facing breast cancer and ovarian cancer, is pleased to announce the creation of its new Global Training Institute for Jewish leaders who advise women and families. Through the training sessions, customized to suit the specific perspectives and priorities of Sharsheret’s partner organizations, these leaders will become experts in offering specialized support and guidance to women personally affected by or at elevated risk for breast cancer or ovarian cancer. With one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime, Sharsheret has an important opportunity to ensure that women facing breast or ovarian cancer feel less isolated and are expertly supported.
The first such training is being offered in partnership with Nishmat’s Miriam Glaubach Center (MGC). Nishmat’s MGC certifies Yoatzot Halacha in the United States and other countries outside of Israel, provides continuing education for Yoatzot Halacha, and supports communities as they hire and employ Yoatzot Halacha. The training addresses topics such as:
The intersection between being Jewish and a cancer diagnosis
How cultural, emotional, religious and Halachic nuances impact cancer diagnosis, treatment and survivorship
Spiritual concerns and cancer
Cultivating a caring community to support those affected by cancer, their families and their communities-at-large
“We are so proud to offer this first-of-its-kind training for Jewish leaders,” said Sharsheret’s Director of Training and Education, Melissa Rosen. “We are confident that expanding the opportunities for providing uniquely Jewish support for those facing cancer will have a positive effect on women, families and communities.”
Sharsheret’s first cohort began their training in January 2022. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive certificates of expertise as Sharsheret-Nishmat Halachic Advisors, indicating their proficiency in advising and meeting the needs of those facing breast cancer or ovarian cancer.
“Nishmat’s Miriam Glaubach Center is so grateful to partner with Sharsheret on this groundbreaking course. During our students’ two years of study to become Yoatzot Halacha, Sharsheret teaches them basics about breast cancer, ovarian cancer and cancer genetics, but these topics really deserve far more thorough, immersive training,” said Atara Eis, Yoetzet Halacha, Director of Miriam Glaubach Center’s U.S. Yoatzot Halacha Fellows Program of Nishmat. “Together, we are providing our Yoatzot Halacha with comprehensive, state-of-the-art Halachic, medical, emotional and pastoral education.”
Sharsheret is grateful to Micah Philanthropies—Ann and Jeremy Pava, Trustees—for having provided seed funding to allow for participation at no cost in this training course. Upon completion, students are each expected to develop and facilitate at least one community education program during 2022.
Sharsheret is eager to partner with more organizations to offer specialized training. Please contact Melissa Rosen for more information at [email protected] or 866-474-2774.
