In some parts of our country, being Jewish can be taken for granted. But here in North Carolina, where Jews represent less than one percent of the state’s population, we cannot assume that our non-Jewish friends and neighbors are familiar with Jewish customs, comfortable with our traditions, or welcoming in their acceptance. It is valuable to us all, Jew and non-Jew, that we live in communities that embrace diversity, and that our children and grandchildren are able to thrive in an environment which promotes personal character and identity.

Now you have the chance to help accomplish these compelling goals.

The Jewish Heritage Foundation of North Carolina has undertaken its most ambitious project to collect, preserve and share the remarkable 400-year story of Jewish settlement in the Tar-Heel state. “Down Home: Jewish Life in North Carolina” will tell the poignant stories from the earliest peddlers, shopkeepers, farmers, civil war veterans and industrialists, to the philanthropists and civil servants of today. It’s the story of individuals who have made an unforgettable impact on the progressive development of our state. But no one knows about it!

It’s time for Jews to tell the story. “Down Home” will reach out statewide to Jews, non-Jews, newcomers and multi-generation families, to schoolchildren and their parents to bring this important history to life. It will include:

• A national broadcast-quality documentary film;
• Eduational videos and teaching guides for the state’s 1.5 million public school students;
• An interactive museum exhibit which will travel to all of the state’s major metropolitan centers;
• An engaging, well-researched book with full-color illustration.