Pondside Partners

Strengthening Synagogues and Nonprofits through Strategic Guidance, Leadership Support, and Sustainable Solutions.

Welcome to Pondside Partners, a boutique consulting practice dedicated to helping synagogues and mission-driven organizations thrive. We specialize in providing tailored strategies, operational support, and leadership coaching to create sustainable, impactful change.

  • I have known and worked with Elliott for many years. He is a gifted professional who understands congregations and organizations and how to move them to deal with both internal and external challenges. He will bring a personal commitment, with empathy and care, that will help any individual or organization fulfill their potential.

    Rabbi Richard F. Address, D.Min

    Director: Jewish Sacred Aging®

  • Rabbi Elliott Kleinman is an exceptional consultant in synagogue management, clergy hiring and retention, and community engagement. His wisdom, deep experience, and keen insight make him an invaluable resource for any congregation navigating leadership transitions or strategic planning.

    I have personally turned to Rabbi Kleinman for guidance on numerous occasions and have always found his counsel to be thoughtful, practical, and rooted in a profound understanding of both the spiritual and operational needs of a synagogue. His ability to balance tradition with innovation, coupled with his deep care for clergy and community alike, sets him apart as a trusted advisor.

    Any congregation seeking to strengthen its leadership, foster engagement, or navigate complex decisions would benefit immensely from his expertise. I cannot recommend him highly enough.

    — Stephanie G. (nonprofit professional and synagogue search chair)

  • If you want something done, ask Elliott. If you are looking to find new ways to brand your organization, ask Elliott. If you want a proven leader who is strong and assertive and builds an organization, leading it to greatness, Elliott is for you!!!!

    Rabbi Bennett M.

  • …his detailed preparation to educate, to inform, and to always have time to be of service ….

    … his dedication to serve our Congregation, Jewish Communities, and charitable organizations distinguish him for what we want to be a relationship of mutual respect and thoughtful caring …

    Henry Skier, Synagogue Treasurer and former President

  • I cannot speak highly enough about working with Rabbi Elliott Kleinman. Not only is he an excellent person to work for but he is a mentor. Elliott is creative, visionary, and challenges one to stretch professionally. He does not micromanage staff but elevates them. It was a pleasure to learn from Rabbi Elliott Kleinman while working with him as he took problems apart and put major programs, systems, and events together.

    Sara S.

Strategic Planning & Visioning

Clarify your goals and build an actionable roadmap for success.

Crisis Management & Communications

Navigate transitions and challenges with strategic, results-driven support.

Fundraising & Financial Sustainability

Build sustainable funding and long-term financial health to support your mission.

Program Design and Evaluation

We develop programs that meet community needs while creating frameworks for evaluation and improvement.

Leadership Development & Transition Planning

Strengthen leaders, boards, and teams to guide your organization confidently into the future.

Operational & Organizational Effectiveness

We assess systems and processes to improve efficiency, align operations with mission, and maximize impact.