CSI FAQ

CSI stands for the Community Security Initiative.

CSI is a program of Jewish Federation Los Angeles that represents the security-related interests of Jewish institutions throughout Greater Los Angeles. We work with, educate, and empower Jewish leaders to make their sites safer and more secure.

CSI is staffed with former and retired law enforcement, government, and military professionals with expertise in security best practices and a collective 80 years of experience!

Any nonprofit Jewish institution (synagogues, day schools, ECCs, or Jewish organizations) located within the CSI catchment area is eligible to receive CSI programs and services.

As a CSI client, a Jewish Institution joins a network of over 600 Jewish leaders of institutions spanning 1,450 square miles. Membership includes periodic site security assessments, 24-hour threat monitoring and incident alerts, tailored security training, and invitations to special events.

CSI membership is free. We do this work because looking after all interests of all Jewish institutions is central to our mission.

If you are in a position of leadership at an eligible Jewish site, you can contact CSI by clicking the “Request a Site Visit” link on this page and filling out a short form. You can also contact CSI at CSI@JewishLA.org or call us at (323) 202-4568 M-Th 8:30 AM-5:30 PM and Fri 8:30 AM-3:30 PM.

The answer depends on the size and complexity of your site; however, a site visit can generally take 2-4 hours and includes a meeting with key leadership and a vulnerability assessment of the location.

No. CSI is not an a la carte security program. Clients must embrace the entire CSI methodology in order to receive programs and services. Among other things, clients are expected to make incremental security improvements to their site, attend CSI trainings, and properly utilize CSI information and intelligence.

No. Although donations to CSI or other Federation programs are appreciated, they are not required to receive free programs or services.

Contact CSI at CSI@JewishLA.org. Please include your full name, title, and Jewish institution affiliation in your email.