Mission and Values

Hamakom (“The Place”) was founded in 2023, when two long-standing Conservative congregations in the west San Fernando Valley (Shomrei Torah Synagogue & Temple Aliyah) came together to build a vibrant, reimagined center for Jewish life—one designed to meet the needs of today and inspire the future generations.

Our MISSION is to engage and fulfill the needs and aspirations of those of all backgrounds who are seeking meaningful Jewish experiences within a welcoming and forward-thinking community.  

Hamakom exists to build "The Place" of the future. We recognize that The Place should not remain static but instead it should grow as we, as a community, bond and learn to achieve the best version of ourselves, collectively and individually. We hold tight our heritage and reach earnestly toward our potential because a Jewish life will be many things, and it is up to us to make those things good, meaningful, and impactful – and it will take continuous growth to accomplish.

In brief, our VISION is that we will be the Place where tradition and innovation meet to bring joyful Judaism to life, at every stage of life.

VALUES are more than what we believe, they drive how we behave. We sacrificed and were founded to make something different, something new, and something lasting. When we journey through Hamakom’s unlimited evolution - as members, students, volunteers, and staff - we seek to do so with a shared core of truths.

Hamakom is The Place where we… 

• Lech Lecha (Go Forth)
• Are rooted in tradition and inspired by innovation
• Foster a welcoming and inclusive space
• Invest in all, newborn to wise-aged
• Are part of Am Yisrael (the Jewish People) and Eretz Israel (the Land of Israel)
• Enjoy lifelong learning to grow our mind, nurture our soul, and explore our identity
• Act because Tikkun Olam (repair the world) is what we do to be a light unto nations
• Care for and revel with our congregants like family, inside or outside our walls
• Share Jewish life and ruach (spirit) through worship, celebration, and connection
• Participate to make community fulfilling and fresh to all 

Hamakom is OUR Place and yours.