COMMITMENT TO YOUTH

Temple Shaarey Zedek realizes that the youth of our congregation is our future, and it is our responsibility to assure that the traditions and values we believe as adults are passed on in an age-appropriate format. Our purpose is to bridge the gap between home, school, and Synagogue with activities that encourage young Jewish children to be proud of their heritage, affiliation and identification. An exciting variety of religious, social, athletic, recreational, and cultural activities offer unique opportunities for educational, spiritual, and social growth in a Jewish environment.

Our Machar Group is geared for 2nd through 5th graders and meets Sunday afternoons for various events and functions. Typical events include: field trips, sporting events, photography, bowling, miniature golf, nature hikes, etc.

Pre-USY, known nationally in the Conservative Movement as Kadima, is for our 6th through 8th graders and also meets on Sunday afternoons.

They participate in a full range of social and educational activities often coordinated with religious school programs. Officers are elected and activities are designed to meet the needs of its members under the guidance of the youth advisor. Some of the activities Kadima participates in include: Regional and local Conventions, Shul-Ins (Temple sleep-overs), Shabbatons (sleep-overs at other Temples), discussion groups, and more

USY (United Synagogue Youth) is for 9th through 12th graders and meets on its own schedule with a well-rounded calendar of social, cultural, religious, and service related activities. International Conventions, retreats, encampments at Camp Ramah, as well as roller skating, sports events, and pizza parties.

Often time’s events are coordinated with other area Temples, in an attempt to unite the entire youth community.