MaTovu was founded in 2018 as an inclusive Jewish space in St. Louis City that fosters connection by enriching our community's spiritual, cultural, and social life. MaTovu has been led by a small volunteer board of directors who helped guide the organization through its first five years.

In 2024, MaTovu launched its Cooperative, a decision-making structure focused on building a deeper, more supportive community by centering community-driven decision making and expanding upon how MaTovu uses its space and crafts its programming. 

In cooperatives, members have a stake in how decisions are made and how the impacts of those decisions are experienced. We refer to those who join the MaTovu Cooperative as “Builders,” referencing our active approach to the collaborative work/”building” ahead. Builders contribute their leadership by serving on committees; their creativity by developing and implementing programming; and their time by volunteering at different events. Builders play an active role in helping MaTovu thrive while also playing an active role in shaping the organization’s direction.

How do you become a Builder? Please complete the Builder Application Form linked below! Going through the application process is a great way to learn more about what being a Builder at MaTovu can look like, but also, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have by emailing hello@matovustl.org.