Hillel Canada’s mission is to enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may further enrich the Jewish people and the world. Hillel student leaders, professionals and lay leaders are dedicated to creating a pluralistic, welcoming and inclusive environment for Jewish college students that encourages and supports intellectual, spiritual and social growth.
Hillel helps students find a balance between being distinctively Jewish and universally human by encouraging them to pursue tzedek (social justice), tikkun olam (repairing the world) and Jewish learning and to support Israel and global Jewish peoplehood.
Local Hillels are funded and promoted by their local communities, while Hillel Ontario and Hillel Canada provide added value with national programs that strengthen and support the programming, professional development and the work of the boards. It also serves as a link to the international Hillel in Washington.
Hillel Ontario plays a direct managerial role in South West Ontario and Hillel Canada with Atlantic Hillels, providing direct supervision and guidance for the staff and lay volunteers.
By periodically convening directors and staff at professional development seminars and events – both live and virtual - Hillel Canada has developed a network of thought partners and serves as a bridge between campus professionals from coast-to-coast.
Hillel Canada works closely with the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (www.cija.ca) to engage students as participants in Israel advocacy programs on campus and as advocates for Israel within student government and campus policies.