The Journey of Our Faith
The Early History of Kol Ami
The story of Temple Kol Ami began in 1988, when 52 pioneering families gathered with a shared vision of building a warm and inclusive Jewish community. Led by the spiritual guidance of Rabbi Herring and the dedicated leadership of Michael Rosenthal and Raina Sinclair, our congregation first found a temporary home within the walls of a rented Lutheran church. Even in those early days, our commitment to education flourished as we moved a portion of our religious school into a local preschool, while families celebrated their B’nai Mitzvah in hotels and resorts across the valley.
Historical Milestones
By 1992, our dreams took a permanent shape when we moved to our current campus, a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Will Bruder. This landmark facility was carefully crafted to serve our growing needs, featuring a sanctuary for sacred prayer, modern classrooms for our students, and a spacious social hall for community gatherings. Complemented by a vibrant field, professional offices, and a serene memorial garden, our campus stands as a lasting tribute to the faith and foresight of our founding families, continuing to welcome all who seek a place in our journey.
Legacy & Community
Growth & Future Vision
Since Rabbi Schneider’s arrival in 2011, Temple Kol Ami has experienced a spiritual and physical expansion. Our religious school and early childhood center have flourished, welcoming a new generation of younger families who join our long-time members in a beautiful display of L’dor va’dor.
Our commitment to community extends far beyond our walls. Supported by significant security grants and the generosity of our members, we recently achieved the milestone of paying off our $1.25M mortgage, ensuring our home remains a stable foundation for the future.Â
As we look toward tomorrow, we balance tradition with bold innovation. Through strategic planning and sustainable initiatives like our solar energy project, we are building a hopeful and welcoming future. We invite you to be part of this continuing story as we honor our past and embrace the infinite possibilities of our shared vision.
