Ignite - Rosh Hashanah 2015 by NCSY

NCSY CITIES AND REGIONAL LEADERSHIP ATLANTIC SEABOARD

NCSY is the international youth movement of the OU.

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP Rabbi Micah Greenland............ International Director, NCSY Keevy Fried................................... Associate International Director, NCSY Rabbi Moshe Benovitz.............. Managing Director, NCSY Martin Nachimson...................... President, OU Avi Katz.........................................National Youth Commission Chairman, OU Allen Fagin..................................... Executive Vice President, OU Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Weinreb....... Executive Vice President, Emeritus, OU Rabbi Steven Weil....................... Senior Managing Director, OU Shlomo Schwartz........................ Chief Financial Officer / Chief Administrative Officer, OU Howard Tzvi Friedman.............Board of Directors Chair, OU Rabbi Lenny Bessler.................. Chief Human Resources Officer, OU Dr. Sam Davidovics.................... Chief Information Officer, OU Mayer Fertig.................................. Chief Communications Officer, OU Gary Magder................................. Director of Digital Media, OU

INTERNATIONAL STAFF Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin............ Director of Education Tova Bashevkin............................ Associate Director of Marketing Sari Borenstein............................ Summer Programs Associate David Cutler.................................. Director of NCSY Summer Rachel First................................... Educational Content Manager & Designer Samantha Feldman.................... Summer Programs Associate Jen Goldman................................ Assistant Director of NCSY Summer Dan Hazony................................... Director of Data and Evaluation Rabbi Israel Lashak.................... Senior Educator Rabbi Yehoshua Marchuck..... Director of Alumni Amy Mauskopf............................. Summer Programs Associate Andres Moncayo......................... Graphic Designer Rabbi Ari Rockoff........................Director of Leadership Development Adam Rudich...............................Director of Operations and Finance Duvi Stahler................................... Director of Marketing Debbie Stone................................ Associate Director of Education Elliot Tanzman.............................. Director of NCSY Summer Recruitment Josh Weinberg............................. Digital Media Manager; Marketing Coordinator

SUMMER LEADERSHIP BILT................................................... Rabbi Akiva Naiman Euro ICE.......................................... Rabbi Israel Lashak GIVE................................................. Erin Cooper Stiebel GIVE West...................................... Leah Moskovich ICE Israel........................................ Rabbi Hal Levy JOLT................................................. Rabbi Eli Zians Kollel................................................ Rabbi Moshe Benovitz Michlelet......................................... Rivka Yudin Camp Sports................................. Rabbi Jon Green The Anne Samson: TJJ & TJJ Ambassadors............ Rabbi Barry Goldfischer TJJ Ambassadors Poland........ Marc Fein

Baltimore, MD Columbia, MD Germantown, MD Gaithersburg, MD Olney, MD Potomac, MD Sandy Spring, MD Silver Spring, MD Towson, MD Cherry Hill, NJ Allentown, PA Harrisburg, PA Huntingdon Valley, PA Lancaster, PA Philadelphia, PA Lower Merion, PA Wilkes-Barre, PA Richmond, VA Norfolk, VA Virginia Beach, VA

CANADA Rabbi Glenn Black Larry Zeifman, Chair 905.761.6279 ncsyca@ncsy.org canada.ncsy.org Calgary, AB Edmonton, AB Vancouver, BC Victoria, BC Hamilton, ON Kitchener-Waterloo, ON King City, ON Kingston, ON London, ON Ottawa, ON Toronto, ON Montreal, QC

CENTRAL EAST Rabbi Tzali Freedman Judge Daniel Butler, Chair 888.471.4514 ncsyce@ncsy.org centraleast.ncsy.org

ON THE COVER: New Jersey NCSYer Arielle Weinberger bakes challah for Shabbat while learning about the mitzvah. PHOTO: JOSH WEINBERG

Rabbi Jonah Lerner Dr. Michael Elman, Chair 410.358.6279 atsoffice@ncsy.org atlanticseaboard. ncsy.org

Windsor, ON Ann Arbor, MI Bloomfield Hills, MI Farmington Hills, MI Huntington Woods, MI Oak Park, MI Southfield, MI West Bloomfield, MI Akron, OH Canton, OH Cincinnati, OH Cleveland, OH Columbus, OH Dayton, OH Solon, OH Toledo, OH Youngstown, OH Pittsburgh, PA

GREATER ATLANTA Rabbi Chaim Neiditch

Atlanta, GA Alpharetta, GA Dunwoody, GA Johns Creek, GA Marietta, GA Sandy Springs, GA

MIDWEST Rabbi Moshe Isenberg Rabbi Donny Schwartz Ari Shabat, Chair 847.677.6279 midwest@ncsy.org midwest.ncsy.org Des Moines, IA Buffalo Grove, IL Chicago, IL Glenview, IL Northbrook, IL Skokie, IL Indianapolis, IN South Bend, IN Kansas City, KS Overland Park,KS St. Louis, MO Winnipeg, MB Minneapolis, MN Omaha, NE Memphis, TN Milwaukee, WI

NEW ENGLAND Rabbi Simon Taylor Joyce Wertheimer, Chair 617.332.6279 newengland@ ncsy.org newengland.ncsy.org New Haven, CT Stamford, CT West Hartford, CT Brookline, MA Framingham, MA Lexington, MA Marlborough, MA Newton, MA Sharon, MA Waltham, MA Providence, RI

NEW JERSEY Rabbi Ethan Katz Dr. Murray Leben, Chair 201.862.0250 office@njncsy.com newjersey.ncsy.org East Brunswick, NJ Englishtown, NJ Fair Lawn, NJ Freehold, NJ Freehold Boro, NJ Hackensack, NJ Highland Park, NJ Hightstown, NJ Livingston, NJ Marlboro, NJ Manalapan, NJ Millburn, NJ Montclair, NJ

EDITOR

EDITORIAL STAFF

SPECIAL THANKS TO

Tova Bashevkin

Jamie Baum Michael Orbach Tova Ross Aharon Schrieber Zachary Schrieber Yaffi Spodek Josh Weinberg

Dovid Bashevkin Dan Hazony Duvi Stahler

ART DIRECTOR AndrĂŠs Moncayo

GRAPHIC ASSISTANT Tova Kupchik

404.486.8787 rcn@ncsy.org ncsyatlanta.com

Northern Highlands, NJ Randolph, NJ Teaneck, NJ Twin Rivers, NJ West Orange, NJ

NEW YORK Rabbi Yehoshua Kohl Kenny Sicklick, Chair 516.569.6279 nyinfo@ncsy.org newyork.ncsy.org Bronx, NY Brooklyn, NY Cedarhurst, NY Commack, NY East Meadow, NY Great Neck, NY Hewlett, NY Inwood, NY Lawrence, NY Long Beach, NY Manhattan, NY Merrick, NY Oceanside, NY Plainview, NY Port Washington, NY Queens, NY Roslyn, NY Staten Island, NY Stony Brook, NY Westchester, NY West Hempstead, NY Woodmere, NY

SOUTHERN Todd Cohn Saby Behar, Chair Freda Greenbaum, Chair 1-866-887-5788 Southern@ncsy.org southern.ncsy.org Little Rock, AK Birmingham, AL Aventura, FL Boca Raton, FL Coral Springs, FL Hollywood, FL Jacksonville, FL Kendall, FL Miami Beach, FL North Miami Beach, FL Palm Beach, FL Parkland, FL Greater Atlanta, GA Savannah, GA New Orleans, LA Charleston, SC Myrtle Beach, SC Nashville, TN

SOUTHWEST Rabbi Gershon Meisel 972.934.9143 ncsysw@ncsy.org southwest.ncsy.org Austin, TX Dallas, TX Fort Worth, TX Houston, TX McKinney, TX Richardson, TX San Antonio, TX

UPSTATE NY

Devora Weinstock 203.508.3624 weinstockd@ncsy.org upstate.ncsy.org Albany, NY Binghamton, NY Buffalo, NY Catskills District, NY Mount Kisco, NY Rochester, NY Schenectady, NY Syracuse, NY

WEST COAST Rabbi Effie Goldberg Rina Emerson Dr. Josh Penn, Chair 310.229.9000 ncsywc@ncsy.org westcoast.ncsy.org Phoenix, AZ Scottsdale, AZ Berkeley, CA Beverly Hills, CA Calabasas, CA Cupertino, CA Irvine, CA La Jolla, CA Los Angeles, CA North Hollywood, CA Oakland, CA Palo Alto, CA Piedmont, CA Sacramento, CA San Diego, CA San Francisco, CA San Jose, CA San Mateo, CA Santa Monica, CA Saratoga, CA Sunnyvale, CA Thousand Oaks, CA West Hills, CA Woodland Hills, CA Woodside, CA Denver, CO Las Vegas, NV Eugene, OR Portland, OR El Paso, TX Mercer Island, WA Seattle, WA

ARGENTINA Rabbi Marcelo Krawiec Martin Lebovich 011.54.11.4962.109 x123 kraweicm@ncsy.org

CHILE Michael Bengio 011.56.99.186.5575 ncsychile@ncsy.org

GERMANY Anna Segal 011.49.30.440.10160 a.segal@lauder.de

ISRAEL Rabbi Yisroel Goren 02.560.9100 aberman@ouisrael. org ouisrael.org

NCSY International Headquarters 11 Broadway New York, NY 10004 Phone: 212.613.8233 Email: info@ncsy.org Web: www.ncsy.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/myncsy Twitter: @ncsy YouTube: www.youtube.com/myncsy Instagram: www.instagram.com/myncsy

IT’S NOT TOO EARLY TO SIGN UP

FOR ONE OF NCSY’S INCREDIBLE SUMMER PROGRAMS PREREGISTER TODAY AT SUMMER.NCSY.ORG OR CALL 1-888-TOUR-4-YOU

BILT

Boys Israel Leadership Training (BILT) is a leadership program for boys looking to challenge themselves and have an incredible adventure through the land of Israel.

NEW! CAMP MAOR

Located in the Pocono Mountains, Camp Moar is for girls entering 5th- 10th grade who are interested in exploring their passion for the performing arts.

CAMP SPORTS

Camp Sports focuses on recreational and highly competitive sports leagues in Baltimore, MD .

EURO ICE

by giving back to communities across the West Coast.

summer in a productive way by learning Torah, doing chesed and touring Israel.

ICE ISRAEL

THE ANNE SAMSON JERUSALEM JOURNEY (TJJ)

ICE Israel takes boys and girls on an inspirational and exhilarating journey through the land of Israel.

JOLT

Jewish Overseas Leadership Training (JOLT) is for teens who want to become leaders. Past participants have described their JOLT experience in Poland, Denmark and Israel as having a transformational impact on their Jewish identity.

NEW! JOLT ISRAEL

Euro ICE brings Jewish history to life by exploring Slovenia and Italy, lands full of rich Jewish culture and history. This co-ed trip culminates in Israel by visiting all the popular sites.

JOLT Israel is for highly-motivated teens looking for a unique leadership experience. The culmination of the summer will be JOLT Israel running a camp for Israeli children whose siblings have cancer.

GIVE

KOLLEL

GIVE WEST

MICHLELET

Girls Israel Volunteer Experience (GIVE) is for exceptional high school girls looking to experience Judaism through the art of giving back in Israel.

GIVE West provides a select group of girls with a fun and meaningful summer

NCSY Kollel is an unforgettable summer experience for boys in Israel with interactive learning, intense sports and great trips.

Michlelet is an extraordinary program for teenage girls looking to spend their

The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ) is the most affordable Israel trip for public school teens. Teens tour Israel and develop an appreciation for its history and their Jewish heritage.

THE ANNE SAMSON TJJ AMBASSADORS

The Anne Samson TJJ Ambassadors takes public school teens to the best sights in Israel while they participate in social action, political advocacy and high-level Torah study.

THE ANNE SAMSON TJJ AMBASSADORS POLAND

On The Anne Samson TJJ Ambassadors Poland (TJJ AP) program, public school teens spend a week in Poland before traveling to Israel and touring the land through the lens of Jewish history.

NCSY is the international youth movement of the Orthodox Union.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS 8 18

SPRING AWAKENING NCSY regions celebrate a great year at Spring Regional.

NEXJEN 22 Southern NCSY reaches a new demographic of Jewish teen leaders.

DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE Anatomy of Error — A message from Rabbi Micah Greenland.

FACES IN THE CROWD Meet Rabbi Gershon Meisel, Southwest NCSY’s new regional director; Find out why Alex and Rachel Katz support NCSY.

CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE Mr. Avi Katz explores how to turn inspiration into impact.

MESSAGE FROM INTERNATIONAL TEEN PRESIDENT Tova Sklar reflects on her year as NCSY’s international teen president.

NCSY’S 2020 VISION A strategic five-year plan to build an even greater organization.

SUMMER SNAPSHOTS NCSY Summer through the lenses of photographers.

NCSY 4G Chicago NCSY launches a girls-only program.

COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS Community members across the NCSY world show their support.

A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY 24 How NCSY helped one teen navigate the path to authentic Judaism.

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED 26 How Noah Farrell found a home with NCSY.

BURSTING BUBBLES AND TAKING DOWN WALLS 28 Noa Cohen turns tragedy into community growth.

THROUGH A NEW LENS 30 NCSY helped Aby Volcovich see Judaism in a new light. YOUNG AT HEART WITH NCSY 32 Three generations of Rockwoods cherish their time with NCSY. EMPOWERING TEENS THROUGH POSITIVE JUDAISM 33 Supporters Lior and Drora Arussy embrace NCSY’s can-do attitude.

36 4

32 34

COMING FULL CIRCLE WITH NCSY From NCSYer to West Coast regional director, Rina Emerson dedicates her life to serving the Jewish community.

MAKING MOVIES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE Sarit Sandler uses film to remember the past.

A NEW TOWN. A NEW SCHOOL. A NEW LIFE. Why Ofir Afenzar became an NCSY advisor.

CITY SPOTLIGHT: VANCOUVER Step by step, the Ross family reshaped Vancouver NCSY.

HIGHLIGHTS Happenings around the NCSY world.

WE APOLOGIZE... Rabbi Moshe Benovitz on communal responsibility.

By Rabbi Micah Greenland, International Director

“Brain surgery is slow and dangerous,” wrote Joshua Rothman in his book review for The New Yorker magazine. “Removing a tumor can be like defusing a bomb… If a neurosurgeon makes a mistake, the damage is often permanent.” Rothman’s review is essentially a mini-biography of Dr. Henry Marsh, a 65-year-old British neurosurgeon who wrote an extraordinary book entitled Do No Harm: Stories of Life, Death, and Brain Surgery. What is particularly striking after reading Rothman’s article is how cognizant Marsh and others in his field must constantly be of what’s at stake during an operation. The difference between removing too little of a malignant tumor, only to see the cancer return shortly thereafter, or removing more tumor than was really there, accidentally cutting away vital brain tissue, is life and death within a millimeter of scalpel movement. In such an intimidating line of work — and mistakes that haunt for a lifetime — it’s understandable that Marsh may have found some measure of comfort in his disclosures. To the extent that his book and his lectures may be helpful to other surgeons and prospective practitioners, it is certainly compelling material. At the same time, there are

Rabbi Micah Greenland addresses 1,700 NCSYers, alumni and supporters this past summer at Yom NCSY.

As we contemplate the impact we are having... We must be mindful of just how much is riding on our decisions.

valuable lessons to be learned even for those of us outside the medical profession. Specifically, it made me think about those of us in the business of serving the Jewish community. As we contemplate the impact we are having on those we aim to educate and inspire — and bearing in mind those we are not currently reaching — we must be mindful of just how much is riding on our decisions. It isn’t brain surgery in the literal sense and the consequences of our decisions on the surface level may appear less extreme. Yet, when it comes to the careful allocation of scarce resources or decisions about how to shift an entire organization towards meeting the greater Jewish community’s needs, a similar degree of trepidation accompanies the proceedings. Nothing less than the spiritual life of our community hangs in the balance. As you have likely read previously in Ignite, we at NCSY have undertaken a fundamental vision shift in our strategic planning effort. This process began a year ago and it has since incorporated substantial input and reflections from our professional staff, our lay leadership, and the Jewish communal leadership beyond our organization to create NCSY’s 2020 Vision. The process has given us the task of more robustly defining the impact we aim to have on both yeshiva day school and public school students. We have embraced this period as an opportunity to think extremely carefully

about our programs, celebrating and expanding those that are having the greatest impact, and modifying, or even eliminating, those that are not meeting our goals. A two-page presentation of the highlights of NCSY’s 2020 Vision can be found on pages 10-11. In full recognition of the gravity of the work we do, we consider our vision and planning to be ongoing. In the spirit of the self-reflection required of all of us during the awefilled days of Elul and Tishrei, we are constantly evaluating and adjusting our approach, while simultaneously retaining the “NCSY magic” inherent in our dynamic advisors who present passionate Judaism in its most inspiring and impactful form. A commitment to self-reflection and maximizing impact permeates the entire culture of NCSY, from regional directors to advisors to the national administration. We are grateful that the daunting challenges Dr. Marsh faces are different from ours and during this auspicious time of year, we pray for the health of all those in need of a refuah shleimah, a full recovery from illness or injury. Yet, just like neurosurgery is vital for someone’s physical health, so too NCSY’s work is vital for the spiritual wellbeing of those it impacts. It is imperative that our professionals use the same amount of expertise and caution in our day-to-day work and vision as Dr. Marsh uses in his. We are proud of what we have achieved during the past 12 months, and we embrace the challenges that lie ahead with a genuine balance of enthusiasm and vigilance as we fully acknowledge the enormity of our undertaking. May we, our families, and all of Klal Yisrael be inscribed and sealed in the Book of Life.

Rabbi Micah Greenland

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

QUESTIONS WITH

ALEX AND RACHEL KATZ

NCSY SUPPORTERS

Alex and Rachel Katz lived in Los Angeles, California, with their four children before making aliyah this past summer. Alex currently serves as the President and CEO of The CastleRock Group, a commercial real estate investment and asset management firm. Alex also founded Kol Zimra Jewish acapella and served as the chazzan of Congregation Mogen David. Rachel taught Pre-1A General Studies at Yavneh Hebrew Academy. The two were active community supporters and hope to stay involved.

Rabbi Gershon Meisel was born to inspire. When he was a student at Yeshiva University (YU), he loved helping others strengthen their connection to Judaism. “My roommate saw that friends were constantly coming to me for advice on how to enhance their spirituality and sharpen their religious convictions, so he connected me with Midwest NCSY,” reflected Meisel. “After my first Shabbaton, I felt like I had found my calling: I wanted to continue helping teens discover their passion for Judaism and a Torah lifestyle.” Meisel spent five years volunteering as an advisor for the Midwest region, where he met his wife, fellow NCSY advisor, Tzippy Kay. After earning a BA in Psychology at YU, an MA in Educational Administration from Loyola University, and completing his certification at Chicago’s Jewish Education Leadership Institute (JELI), Meisel felt that something was still missing. Despite the fulfillment he felt from his work, Meisel wanted the chance to do more. In 2010, the Meisels moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where Meisel, fondly known as Rabbi Gershie, was hired as the program coordinator for St. Louis NCSY and Jewish Student Union (JSU) clubs. Tzippy later designed and launched Shoreshet, an all-girls NCSY track. After eight years of service, Meisel wanted to reinforce his professional skills and enhance his level of Torah learning. He and his family moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he studied in the YU Torah Mitzion Kollel of Chicago and spearheaded learning programs for the teens in the community. Now, Meisel, Tzippy, and their two children, Rony and Deedee, are moving to Houston, Texas, where he will serve as the regional director of Southwest NCSY. His immediate goal is to expand the number of JSU clubs from three to eighteen and schedule more Shabbatons throughout the year. “Places like San Antonio have so much excitement about NCSY and there is so much potential to expand our already successful programming and reach even more teens in the Southwest region,” said Meisel. Perhaps his most ambitious goal is to expand NCSY to satellite locations in neighboring states. “I want to bring NCSY to other cities with small Jewish communities, like Oklahoma City and Albuquerque,” he explained. “By creating more chapters, we’ll be able to impact more Jewish teens and give them the opportunity to develop into the future leaders of Klal Yisrael.”

WHEN DID YOU FIRST HEAR ABOUT NCSY? ALEX: I grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, and was actively involved in the Midwest Region of NCSY — frequently attending programs and Shabbatons. I enjoyed participating in these events and to this day have fond memories and friendships from that time in my life. RACHEL: Being from a small town in Canada, I had never heard much about NCSY until after we were married. But one thing we both agreed on: fostering Yiddishkeit in adolescents in a warm and open environment is critical to the Jewish future. WHY DO YOU FEEL NCSY IS ESSENTIAL TO THE JEWISH COMMUNITY? RACHEL: NCSY provides a number of programs and opportunities for teens to develop leadership skills, meet other Jewish teens and connect to their heritage. However, for us, NCSY’s most important contribution to our future is giving teens from both observant and non-observant backgrounds the chance to explore their Judaism by asking questions in a safe and comfortable environment. WHY DO YOU SUPPORT NCSY? ALEX: My wife didn’t grow up religious, and although she wasn’t involved in NCSY as a teenager, we understand how important an organization like NCSY is. We believe it’s particularly important to send teens to Israel to strongly combat the anti-Semitic and anti-Zionist movements they will likely encounter when they attend college. There is something special about Israel — the atmosphere, the melting pot of all different types of Jews and religious levels living in the same place — that can really make an impact on someone. Being in Israel has the ability to truly reinforce the learning and programs that a teen experiences throughout the year, in a hands-on manner. DOES INVESTING PHILANTHROPICALLY DIFFER FROM INVESTING IN BUSINESS? ALEX: As with any investment, be it philanthropic or for profit, you are looking for your investment dollars to have the greatest impact. For us, when we give to NCSY, we feel that our dollar is being used in the right way, since an investment with NCSY can change someone’s life permanently.

By Avi Katz, NCSY Chairman The awesome prayer of Neila, which with we conclude the Yom Kippur service, reaches its dramatic climax as the congregation emotionally proclaims “Hashem hu Ha’elokim, Hashem hu Ha’elokim” — Hashem is our God. This transcendental moment hearkens back to when Eliyahu HaNavi stood atop Har HaCarmel and challenged a cohort of false prophets. After he vanquishes his foes, Eliyahu inspires those present to proclaim this powerful declaration. While this phrase has become iconic to the closing of the Yom Kippur service, the lesser-known end of the story tells us more about the ingredients for lasting religious inspiration. Following the ecstatic scene on the mountain, King Ahab excitedly returns to his palace to regale Queen Jezebel with the dramatic events of the day. After listening to the king recount this transformative event, Jezebel seemingly ignores Ahab and, instead, sends a curious response to Eliyahu: “Ki ka’et machar” — on the morrow, she will deal severely with him, just as he had with the false prophets. What was the nature of Jezebel’s response and why did she specifically say machar, tomorrow? What Jezebel profoundly understood, according to the Malbim, is that while inspiration is a powerful force, it quickly passes. Consequently, following his return home, King Ahab quickly regressed to his old ways. Jezebel grasped this cold reality and therefore knew how to further her diabolical mission. Her plan was to wait until “machar,” when the moment of enthusiasm would pass, for only then could she kill Eliyahu. The implications of this idea are enormous within the NCSY framework. We have many programs that inspire, and inspire well. But if the approach outlined by Jezebel is correct, what is the long-term impact of these moments of inspiration? Won’t those strong feelings just dissipate the next day — as did those of King Ahab?

The emphatic answer is no! Powerful moments of inspiration are critical to lighting the flame of the Jewish soul as it searches the path towards holiness. But, they cannot be the whole story. An analysis of the texts related to the four sons of the Haggadah shines a bright light on the Torah’s answer to our problem. The solution is also found, ironically, by emphasizing machar. The Kli Yakar notes that both the wise and wicked son on Passover ask essentially the same question. Despite the similarities, we greet one query with respect and the other with hostility. Why? Further, the simple son asks a very short but enigmatic question: “ma zot,” what is this? Read with an exclamation point, the question is transformed into an abrasive statement. And yet, we take it as an innocent attempt to better understand the Passover drama. Again, why? The Torah is emphasizing that it is not who asks the question, but when! Both the wise son and the simple son are introduced with the phrase “ki yish’alcha bincha machar” — tomorrow, when your son will ask. First they experience the wonders of the Passover tradition and only on the next day do they begin to reflect. By asking their question “machar,” it is clear that their objective is personal growth and the internalization of their holy encounter. It is only then, after the initial wave of emotion has receded, that a deeper process of impact can begin. In stark contrast, we are told to respond to the wicked son “bayom hahu” — that very day. That child is not even willing to engage in the reflection process to begin with and therefore exposes his lack of spiritual desire. What the Torah is teaching us is that inspiration, while a powerful force,

Inspiration, while a powerful force, will not turn into impact without ongoing engagement. will not turn into impact without ongoing engagement. This idea forms the backbone of NCSY’s 2020 Strategic Vision, which aims to double the organization’s impact over the next five years. To help accomplish these goals, NCSY is launching 19 new pilot projects to reach and impact thousands of previously disengaged Jewish teens. These creative initiatives demonstrate that NCSY is the go-to address for implementing fresh approaches to old problems. Additionally, there will be a large increase in spending on follow-up that will target existing participants, especially teens returning from summer programs in Israel. In summation, NCSY’s 2020 Strategic Vision is an assurance that our growth is not guided by momentary feelings of excitement, but rather with a long-term strategy for lasting transformation. The lessons of history have been well learned and change is incumbent upon us. I encourage the community to learn about NCSY’s strategic plan and its new pilot projects. I encourage our supporters to deepen their connection with us by joining in the implementation of our vision. Lastly, if anything you have read resonates within you, I encourage you, the reader, to act upon that feeling — today! We need to be ready for the questions of tomorrow.

Avi Katz is a managing member of Agam Capital Management. Prior to that, he was a partner at Apollo Management where he was the portfolio manager of the Apollo Strategic Value Fund and Apollo Value Investment Fund. Previously, he held many leadership positions in the world of finance and in the broader Jewish community. Mr. Katz graduated from New York University with a BS in Accounting and Economics, and he is also a Chartered Financial Analyst. He lives in Teaneck, New Jersey, with his wife Becky and their four children.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

NCSY’s International Teen President Tova Sklar proudly holds the Havdalah candle at NCSY’s Yarchei Kallah. “WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?” That was the most common question I was asked on every NCSY Shabbaton. What could I, a girl who grew up in an Orthodox home and attended Jewish day school all her life, possibly gain from this organization? When my friends first began attending NCSY programs in junior high school, I asked them the same question. I had always envisioned myself becoming an advisor in the future; however, from the few articles I had read in Ignite about teens undergoing religious transformations, I didn’t think I fit the mold of the typical NCSYer. Yet now, reflecting on this past year, I don’t think I could have been more wrong. After immersing myself in the NCSY world, I quickly realized that there is no mold. Everyone is different. We all come from different backgrounds and we all are inspired in different ways. While on the surface NCSY seems to have the greatest impact on teens from unaffiliated homes, it has been vital to my personal growth as well. NCSY has provided me with an outlet to share my passion for Torah with teens eager to learn more, and enabled me to glean from the unbridled enthusiasm of those learning words of Torah for the first time. These teens showed me how I had taken my Judaism for granted over the past 18 years; they made me realize how integral my Judaism is to who I am. Last December I spent five days at NCSY’s Yarchei Kallah, a program where public school teens choose to spend their winter break learning Torah. Throughout the program, the enthusiasm for Torah learning was palpable. Hearing NCSYers say “I’m on a Torah high,” or “I just wish I had the opportunity to do this every day,” made 8

Yet now, reflecting on this past year, I don’t think I could have been more wrong.

me realize how lucky I was to attend a yeshiva day school. It was there that my Judaic study classes went from being just another subject to a gift I was given every day. As NCSY teen president, I realized it was incumbent on the NCSY National Board to create learning initiatives that would resonate with these teens who were eager to learn. As a result, we created a learning program in memory of the three boys who were murdered in the summer of 2014: Gilad Shaer, Naftali Frankel, and Eyal Yifrach, hy”d. As a group of passionate teens, NCSYers felt connected to this tragedy and recognized that we must carry on the boys’ legacy. Nearly every teen shared the tragedy on social media when it first happened. A year later, NCSY’s national board launched a program titled #RememberOurBoys, pairing together 140 NCSYers from across the United States and Canada to learn about why our nation is united and what it means for us to be responsible for one another. This program reaffirmed my belief that there is no greater joy and satisfaction than sharing my passion for Torah with others who may not be privileged to

have the same opportunities, and to see them experience it from a fresh perspective. To help new NCSYers who have limited Jewish backgrounds, the national board created “The NCSY Dictionary,” a collection of common Jewish-related words and phrases. Many of these terms are necessary for new participants to understand basic conversations, but they may feel too embarrassed to ask for a definition. The goal of this project was to help unaffiliated teens feel more comfortable in Jewish settings, and ultimately, help them connect to Judaism and discover Torah for the first time. I am truly grateful for all of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that NCSY afforded me. I was able to attend the AIPAC Policy Conference to learn various ways to advocate for Israel, as well as make a Kiddush Hashem at other conventions while interacting with presidents, teens and board members from different youth groups, many of whom had misconceptions about Orthodox Jews or had never even met one. I can proudly say that being exposed to all types of NCSYers at all different levels of observance has helped transform me into the person I am today, reaffirming that there truly is no one NCSY mold. Thanks to the support and guidance I received from NCSY, as well as the multiple opportunities I had to help others in strengthening their Judaism, my own connection to Judaism grew stronger. I will forever cherish the memories I created and the friendships I have cultivated throughout my years in NCSY. Tova Sklar graduated from Ma’ayanot Yeshiva High School for Girls and will be spending the year studying at Migdal Oz in Israel.

MAJOR EVENTS AROUND NCSY

NCSYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 2020 VISION A strategic five-year plan to build an even greater organization.

SUMMER SNAPSHOTS NCSY Summer through the lenses of photographers.

NCSY 4G Chicago NCSY launches a girls-only program.

COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS Community members across the NCSY world show their support.

SPRING AWAKENING NCSY regions celebrate a great year at Spring Regional.

NEXJEN Southern NCSY reaches a new demographic of Jewish teen leaders.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

Today’s Jewish community faces two simultaneous crises. With assimilation and intermarriage at an all-time high, teens with little connection to Judaism require role models and programming that make Judaism engaging and relevant. At the same time, even teens with Jewish educational backgrounds are becoming increasingly dispassionate. They too need to be inspired by the beauty of the legacy they have inherited, which can often be overlooked when in school. Both of these populations require strong, strategic programming implemented by genuine role models, and NCSY can fulfill these needs. Over the past year, NCSY has developed a strategic vision that will serve as a guiding philosophy for the organization as it grows. As we look five years down the road to the year 2020, NCSY is prepared to put in place the necessary infrastructure and programs to more adeptly tackle the challenges facing the Jewish community.

THE NORTH AMERICAN JEWISH CHALLENGE North American Jews are increasingly secular and disengaged.

The Jewish population in North America has become increasingly secular, with greater percentages of young Jews feeling disconnected from Shabbat, Israel, synagogue life and Jewish education. 58 percent of Jews are intermarrying, while among the non-Orthodox, intermarriage has

Public school teens ride through the desert as they experience Israel for the first time.

skyrocketed to a rate of 71 percent.

THE NCSY SOLUTION

NCSY has the scope, scale and platform to tackle this challenge. With over 60 years of experience, NCSY is the leader in inspiring Jewish teens. NCSY has over 150 staff members and 400 volunteer advisors that run programming for Jewish teens in 200+ cities across North America, catering to teens of all backgrounds to enhance levels of Jewish engagement. NCSY successfully reaches more than 16,000 Jewish teens annually and is the largest provider of teen summer trips to Israel, with more than 950 teens participating each summer.

THE 2020 STRATEGIC VISION

NCSY will double its impact over the next five years. NCSY has historically focused on reaching the greatest number of Jewish teens through a variety of programs. However, it is now shifting its focus to increasing the proportion of teens whose Judaism is deeply impacted by NCSY. This will be accomplished by launching pilot projects in highopportunity areas, expanding summer programs, strengthening the follow-up process and assessing programmatic investments.

HIGH-OPPORTUNITY PILOT PROJECTS

NCSY’s best ideas have always been the ones that come organically from our local staff and advisors. To help foster this creativity, NCSY is investing annually in various pilot projects across our regions. The projects will be twoyear investments specifically targeted at populations with great potential to engage and impact large numbers of students, with the goal of national expansion beyond the host community. OUR INNOVATIVE AND CREATIVE PROGRAMMING WILL TARGET:

• Co-educational Orthodox Jewish high school students • Single gender Orthodox Jewish high school students • Public high schools with particularly large Jewish populations • Jewish populations currently underserved by NCSY (for example: Israelis and Russians) • Junior high students in existing NCSY communities • More robust year-round follow-up with public school participants in summer programs

EXPANDING OUR SUMMER PROGRAMS

For NCSY, the summer is an opportunity to inspire and engage teens with transformational experiences over

an extended period of time. We build micro-communities and expose NCSYers to the beauty of a Jewish lifestyle. By 2020, our goal is to double the amount of summer program participants from 1,000 to 2,000. We will be creating new programs and initiatives that will serve niche groups of teens, in addition to expanding the capacity of our existing programs. We will also work to expand scholarship opportunities to make our programs as accessible as possible.

we works towards our 2020 Vision, we will implement new ideas to enhance existing programming. Each of our programs will be carefully evaluated to make sure it is achieving its maximum potential in terms of reach, scalability and impact on the Jewish community.

STRENGTHENING OUR FOLLOWUP PROCESS

New England NCSY Extreme Shabbat Makeover

CASE STUDY: FUNDED PILOT PROJECTS

BELOW ARE THREE EXAMPLES OF THE 19 PILOT PROJECTS THAT NCSY IS FUNDING FOR 2015-2016.*

In NCSY, our programs are a means to an end. We are dedicated to helping teens make the best Jewish life decisions for themselves and their future families. The focus of our programs is to inspire teens to feel empowered by their Jewish identity. The relationships between NCSYers and our staff and advisors are the central component of the NCSY experience. It is through those relationships that we push our teens to grapple with their questions about Judaism in the hopes that they will be inspired to build their own strong Jewish identity.

Target Audience: High school teens in Jewish day school and public school. Project Summary: New England NCSY will take a select group of advisors and day school teens to several small communities for Shabbat. The group will boost community spirit while attracting new local public school and yeshiva day school teens to shul for davening and Shabbat meals. The day school teens will be empowered by leading davening, giving d’vrei Torah and having a key role in spiritually uplifting the community.

Teens who are heavily involved will be assigned a staff member or advisor who will be responsible for maintaining a relationship with them, while also making sure they are exposed to as many Jewish opportunities as possible. This one-on-one attention is unparalleled in the realm of informal Jewish education, ensuring the success of our mission to inspire and strengthen the Jewish future.

Target Audience: Latin American teenagers in grades 8-12, including teenagers who may have been born in North America, but have one or more parents of South American descent. Project Summary: The Jewish Latin American community, particularly in Aventura, Florida, was recently identified as the fastest growing demographic in Dade County, according to the University of Miami Center for Statistics. The community is traditional and very tight-knit, but also very concerned about their children growing up in a foreign culture and the impact it will have on their Jewish

ASSESSING OUR PROGRAMMATIC INVESTMENTS NCSY’s ambition will be matched with comparable self-reflection. As

Southern NCSY Latin Division

NCSY’s TJJ visits Otzar HaStam in Northern Israel where they learn what it takes to write a Torah.

Girls at New Jersey NCSY’s Spring Regional take in Shabbat as they light candles with their advisors.

futures. Through crafting programs led by Spanish and Portuguese-speaking educators that are uniquely catered to Latin Jewish teens, Southern NCSY will connect, inspire and empower this critical and under-serviced population.

West Coast JSU Leadership Institute

Target Audience: Public school teens with an affinity towards leadership. Project Summary: JSU’s Community Leadership Institute will train and empower student leaders to run their weekly clubs. Students accepted to the internship will be part of an allinclusive leadership program and receive extensive training on how to lead a club. These teens are most likely to advance to higher level NCSY programming as they develop close relationships with their club facilitators. The student cohort from each of the local schools will either meet physically or virtually with a JSU facilitator each week to ensure the necessary face-time for students to “move up the Jewish ladder.” Thus, the JSU Leadership Institute is maintaining the positive Jewish growth amongst its participants and expanding the reach of JSU schools while eliminating costly food funds and reducing wasted hours. *There are an additional 20+ programs that have not yet been approved due to limited funding. To learn more or to become involved with these pilot projects, please email Dan Hazony at dan@ncsy.org. u

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

Girls on NCSY’s Girls Israel Volunteer Experience (GIVE) rappel down Maarat Keshet after a full day of hiking. to Israel. NCSY Summer is more than just a few weeks away from home; it can be one of the most meaningful and memorable experiences of a teenager’s life. NCSY runs 12 unique

summer programs that cater to teens with different interests and backgrounds. Take a look at some of the moments that made NCSY Summer 2015 unforgettable.

PHOTO: BENJI CHEIRIF

1,086 Jewish teenagers took part in one of NCSY’s summer programs last summer. More than 950 of them journeyed to Israel, making NCSY the largest teen provider of summer trips

Rinat Tzubeli and Liat Levkovich snap a quick photo during a carnival NCSY GIVE hosted for victims of terror.

Teens on The Anne Samson TJJ Ambassadors Poland trip march out of Auschwitz–Birkenau in solidarity before traveling to Israel to build their leadership and advocacy skills. Am Yisrael Chai!

PHOTO: BENJI CHEIRIF

PHOTO: JOSH WEINBERG

After spending two weeks learning about Jewish history in Spain and Gibraltar, Ethan Dalva and Max Segal arrive in Israel and zipline through the Gush on Euro ICE.

Ilan Acrech-Berezan, Talya Rogoff and Max Teitelbaum of The Anne Samson TJJ Ambassadors program dig through ruins searching for ancient artifacts. TJJ Ambassadors is an Israel journey for public school students focusing on social action, political advocacy and Torah study.

Mendel Weisenberg, Avi Greene and Ian Subin on ICE Israel visit the Kotel on their last night in Israel.

PHOTO: DAVID SINCLAIR

PHOTO: BENJI CHEIRIF

NCSY teens traveling through Spain on Euro ICE stop to shop in Granadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s city center.

Boys in Camp Sports enjoy a summer filled with sports, learning and fun on their campus in Baltimore, Maryland. ROSH HASHANAH 2015

PHOTO: BENJI CHEIRIF

Teens on The Anne Samson TJJ visit Mt. Herzl to pay their respects to the fallen soldiers and Israeli leaders buried there.

PHOTO: JONAH LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

Boys on The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ), NCSY’s premier summer program for public schools teens, make a splash in Eilat.

Girls on Jewish Overseas Leadership Training (JOLT) hike through Ein Gedi as they learn about Israel’s history.

PHOTO: BENJI CHEIRIF

Daniella Schulhoff on GIVE West brings joy to the elderly at the Garden of Palms nursing home in Los Angeles, California.

NCSY Kollel is the perfect combination of learning, intense sports and a full schedule of great trips.

After touring concentration camps and learning about Jewish history, JOLT participants run a camp for unaffiliated children in Denmark and explore Israel.

PHOTO: LEORA LITWIN PHOTO: BENJI CHEIRIF

PHOTO CREDIT: BENJI CHEIRIF

NCSY Michlelet advisor Oona Welman leads pre-davening yoga on top of Har Tzfachot in Eilat.

Hannah Levitin and Malka Edery had a blast hosting a carnival for the children of Sderot on Michlelet.

BILTers (Boys Israel Leadership Training) stand in formation during an intense four days of army training in Gadna.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

PHOTOS: BENJI CHEIRIF

1,700 NCSYers, alumni, supporters and friends gathered in the Latrun Tank Museum on Monday, July 27, for the longawaited Yom NCSY celebration. Yom NCSY is a mega-event that brings together all of the NCSY summer programs in Israel for a night of live entertainment and inspiration. This

yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program included keynote speaker Rachel Frankel, mother of Naftali Frankel aâ&#x20AC;?h, and musical guest Shlomo Katz. For the first time, Yom NCSY featured an Israel Gap Year Fair where NCSYers were able to meet with representatives from 35 different yeshivot, seminaries and universities.

Recent 8th grade graduates attend their first 4G event, the end of the school year Summer Bash dance party.

“NCSY’s Girls Israel Volunteer Experience (GIVE) completely changed my life,” recalled Orah Wilens, a senior at Hanna Sacks Bais Yaakov in Chicago, Illinois. After spending her summer on one of NCSY’s all-girls summer programs, Orah had found a place where she could grow in a fun and inspiring environment — and she wasn’t about to let it go just because the program was finished. “There’s a different level of growth that can be reached when you’re in an informal education setting,” added Orah. While on GIVE, Orah and many of her friends connected to the mission and methods of NCSY, but continuing their NCSY involvement during the year proved to be challenging. Out of respect for the school rules and realizing that many of her friends would not feel comfortable attending co-ed events, Orah knew something needed to be done. Trying to maintain her spark of inspiration, Orah and her friend Raisel Altman decided that a year-round girls NCSY program would not only be beneficial, but also necessary for the growth of hundreds of Jewish girls in the area. “We wanted to share the feelings we

experienced on NCSY Summer with the girls in the greater Chicago area,” said Altman. Orah and Raisel pitched the idea to the Midwest NCSY team, who had previously been approached by other parents and community leaders with a similar vision. With the help of Regional Director Rabbi Donny Schwartz and Executive Director Rabbi Moshe Isenberg, the seeds had been planted for NCSY for Girls (known as NCSY 4G). “It is our intention to bring the energy and enthusiasm from NCSY to the girls who yearn for that connection,” explained Rabbi Schwartz. “Our summer programs have offered girlsonly options for years, and we must now adapt our year-long programming as well. NCSY 4G offers girls a platform to safely speak their minds, learn from inspiring role models and truly appreciate the beauty of being a part of the Jewish people.” “Among many smaller events throughout the year, the highlight of the year was NCSY 4G’s first Shabbaton,” explained Shuli Tsadok, assistant director of NCSY 4G. “Over 90 girls attended from across the Chicago

area and each one left inspired. The ruach (spirit) was overwhelming as the weekend was filled with tons of singing, dancing and learning.” NCSY 4G allows girls craving inspiration and empowerment to reach new heights through exposure to female leaders, exciting social events, enlightening informal learning and motivational Shabbatons. “The necessity of the program came to life through an overwhelming response of over 100 girls to our first Shalosh Seudos event,” exclaimed director Avigayil Strulowitz. “It’s amazing to see a program unite so many girls from across the community. It truly affords these girls a safe space to grow. More than 100 teens have enriched their connection to Judaism, strengthened their Jewish identities and discovered a support system through NCSY 4G.” “NCSY 4G has brought the powerful NCSY atmosphere to an all-girls setting. It has allowed me to further my love of learning Torah in a warm yet passionate environment,” reflected Orah. “I look forward to watching the program expand and meet the needs of the girls in our community.” u ROSH HASHANAH 2015

PORTLAND, OR: Over 300 people from across the community attended The Q, Oregon NCSYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual trivia night, which raised over $75,000 for NCSY. Dr. Cynthia Gulick (holding trophy) of the Oregon Medical Weightloss Center and her winning team proudly display their trophy with Meira Spivak, Oregon NCSY Director (far right) and Doovie Jacoby, Portland NCSY Director (far left).

MONTREAL, QC: Montreal community members were privileged to learn about the importance of NCSY from Rabbi Steven Weil, senior managing director of the Orthodox Union, at the home of Jonathan and Ariella Eltes. Pictured above: Rabbi Steven Weil; Rabbi Glenn Black, CEO of NCSY Canada; and David Hamaoui, Montreal NCSY advisory board member.

ST. LOUIS, MI: St. Louis NCSY and JSU Director Rabbi Mike Rovinsky (left) present JSU honorees Galia and Milton Movitz with an award at the annual gala dinner.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN: Minneapolis NCSY and JSU held their 2nd Annual End of Year Event at Semple Mansion. Nearly 150 people came to honor JSU presidents and graduating seniors, and were moved by a powerful speech from City Director Rabbi Tzvi Kupfer.

TEANECK, NJ: New Jersey NCSY held its Annual Bergen County Scholarship Breakfast on June 21 at the home of Alissa and Shimmie Horn in Teaneck, New Jersey. This year, they were proud to honor Ayelet and Rabbi Michael Hoenig, Reva and Danny Judas, Denise and Dr. Leonard Schrieber, and Caryn and Yigal Marcus (pictured).

PHOTO: NOACH KLEIN

WEST COAST: NCSY supporters traveled to Napa Valley for West Coast’s annual one-day Men’s Only Excursion to taste the finest kosher California wines and learn more about the winemaking process. Pictured above: Rabbi Effie Goldberg, West Coast NCSY executive director, Steve Padis and Ariel Bobroff at Padis Winery.

TORONTO, ON In April, more than 100 women gathered for NCSY’s First Women’s Tea to learn about NCSY and hear from inspirational speaker Mrs. Chana Leah Rapoport. Pictured above, host Phyllis Friedman (left) with Toronto City Director Shyndee Kestenbaum.

DETROIT, MI: Chana Sherizen and her son Moshe (pictured) accept a tribute in memory of their late husband and father, Tzvi Sherizen z”l, at Detroit NCSY’s Garden Sizzler all-youcan-eat rib steak buffet. Over 250 community members attended the annual event hosted by Chayala Levitz and Yerachmiel Henig.

LAWRENCE, NY: Congratulations to the champions of New York NCSY’s 9th Annual 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament (left to right): Alan Shapiro, Jason Badian and Jonathan Meyers, flanked by New York NCSY Regional Director Rabbi Yehoshua Kohl (far left) and Tournament Director Judah Rhine (far right).

SEATTLE, WA: Seattle NCSY Director Ari Hoffman presents Seattle teen board member Dalia Puterman with a Torah Growth award at Basarfest 2015.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

PHOTO: MERYL ALCABES PHOTOGRAPHY

GREATER WASHINGTON, MD: A packed crowd of Greater Washington NCSY supporters gathered at the home of Golda and Marty Jacobs for the 2nd Annual Cheryl Stern Memorial Scholarship Fund Dinner on June 4. Since it began in 2014, the scholarship fund has helped send nearly 200 teens to Israel. Pictured from left to right: Dana Sicherman, former director of institutional advancement for Atlantic Seaboard NCSY; Golda Jacobs; Marty Jacobs; Larry Stern; and Rabbi Jonah Lerner, regional director of Atlantic Seaboard NCSY.

GREATER ATLANTA: Teens enjoy Greater Atlanta’s Regional Convention at a beautiful resort in the North Carolina Mountains.

ATLANTIC SEABOARD: Teens from Greater Washington enjoy a weekend at the Stamford Hilton during Atlantic Seaboard’s Spring Conclave.

SOUTHERN: Future Jewish leaders assume their positions on Southern NCSY’s regional board.

VANCOUVER: A Shabbaton with GLOBALLS* is a Shabbaton to remember. *Special air-filtered poly balls that have a hollow core.

CANADA: Girls smile and reflect during Havdalah after a moving Shabbat in Stamford, Connecticut.

WEST COAST: NCSYers relax between sessions on West Coast NCSY’s Spring Regional. MIDWEST: Midwest NCSY Regional Director Rabbi Donny Schwartz congratulates Zach Widmoyer from South Bend, Indiana, on receiving his Keter Shem Tov award for exhibiting outstanding character traits.

PHOTO: ELI KATZ PHOTOGRAPHY | WWW.ELIKATZ.COM

NEW YORK: New York NCSY’s Spring Regional hosts 300 teens at Camp Morasha.

NEW ENGLAND: New England NCSY’s Spring Regional in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, celebrated Yom Yerushalayim with an epic field day.

PHOTO: ELANA POGAL

CENTRAL EAST: Central East’s proud 2014-2015 graduates are heading off to yeshivot and seminaries in Israel next year.

UPSTATE NEW YORK: Rochester NCSY wins Chapter of the Year at Har Sinai NCSY’s Spring Convention.

NEW JERSEY: New Jersey NCSY teens and advisors gather together before Shabbat at Spring Regional Convention at the Hudson Valley Resort.

SOUTHWEST: Teens had a blast at Southwest NCSY’s Spring Regional Saturday night bowling activity.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

PHOTO: ELI DREYFUSS

Students meet at Saint Andrew’s School in Boca Raton, Florida, during the summer to help plan next year’s program.

Thanks to Southern NCSY’s NexJen program, Hannah LaBovick was prepared to attend her Ivy League university and fight any anti-Israel bias she encountered. “I spent my whole life working towards this, and I was really excited to begin my college years,” said Hannah. “Part of me used to be nervous about living on campus and having to face anti-Zionists, anti-Semites and tons of media bias plastered all over the local papers — but thanks to NCSY’s NexJen, I’m able to tackle anything that comes my way.” Up until now, NCSY’s Jewish Student Union (JSU) clubs connected thousands of public school teens to their Jewish heritage. However, due to differences in how clubs are set up, reaching the private school demographic was much more difficult. NCSY needed to create a program that private schools would want to bring in. Realizing that teens attending South Florida’s elite private schools are more academically driven than ever before — spending their spare time on activities, clubs and courses that help build their college resume — NCSY developed NexJen. Launched in the fall of 2014, NexJen vigorously challenges teens to exercise their minds and explore their intellectual curiosity through

a semester or year-long course that comprehensively covers a number of Jewish topics. The classes are content rich and engaging. Todd Cohn, regional director of Southern NCSY, explained, “NexJen reaches a new population of teens to create a generation of leaders that can help the local and global Jewish community create a greater vision, reach greater heights and make a greater impact.” As part of the curriculum, each school’s team completes a project that pushes their limits and strengthens the Jewish community. This past year, students learned about the extraordinary events surrounding the State of Israel’s formation and explored the Jewish nation’s historical, legal and native rights to the land. Through extensive media studies and ethical considerations, students gained the tools to confidently combat BDS and defend Israel on their college campuses and beyond. Ilan Mussaffi, a junior at North Broward Preparatory School noted, “NexJen allowed me to form real relationships with my Jewish friends. After the program ended, I felt proud to be Jewish. I know that despite any

challenges I will face in the future, my Jewish identity will always stay strong.” NCSY supporters Evelyn and Shmuel Katz were instrumental in the founding of NexJen and continue to play an active role in ensuring its success. “We knew that it wouldn’t be an easy task to get into the private schools, but we did know, and had full confidence in the idea, that if anyone could do it, and do it well, it would be the leadership and staff of NCSY that we have here in South Florida.” There are high hopes for NexJen’s future. Rabbi Avi Fried, director of education for Southern NCSY, has spoken to local universities about forming a partnership to offer college credit for participating students. “The NexJen Competition delivers exactly what teens and their parents are looking for: high-content Jewish programming, hands-on leadership training and a tremendous opportunity to advance their college resumes,” said Rabbi Fried. “This has the potential to roll out across the country and become the future for integrating Judaism in private secular schools. It’s really exciting.” To get involved in NexJen, contact Avi Fried at frieda@ncsy.org

PROFILES OF THE PEOPLE AND PLACES THAT MATTER

A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY How NCSY helped one teen navigate the path to authentic Judaism.

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED How Noah Farrell found a home with NCSY.

BURSTING BUBBLES AND TAKING DOWN WALLS Noa Cohen turned tragedy into community growth.

THROUGH A NEW LENS NCSY helped Aby Volcovich see Judaism in a new light.

YOUNG AT HEART WITH NCSY Three generations of Rockwoods cherish their time with NCSY.

EMPOWERING TEENS THROUGH POSITIVE JUDAISM Supporters Lior and Drora Arussy embrace NCSY’s can-do attitude.

COMING FULL CIRCLE WITH NCSY From NCSYer to West Coast regional director, Rina Emerson dedicates her life to serving the Jewish community.

MAKING MOVIES TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE Sarit Sandler uses film to remember the past.

A NEW TOWN. A NEW SCHOOL. A NEW LIFE. Why Ofir Afenzar became an NCSY advisor.

CITY SPOTLIGHT: VANCOUVER Step by step, the Ross family reshaped Vancouver NCSY. ROSH HASHANAH 2015

PHOTO: CHAYA ROSS

PHOTO:ELISHA KARAN

When Sarah Broniscer started high school, she was not sure she believed in God. “Judaism [as a culture] always made me happy, but I didn’t know if I believed in organized religion,” said Sarah, who recently graduated from Goldie Margolin High School for Girls in Memphis, Tennessee. “Although I attended Jewish schools since I was three, I wasn’t sure there was more to being Jewish than being a kind, moral person.” Sarah struggled with her faith as she tried to understand why her younger brother Jacob was born severely autistic. She saw the debilitating effects of his condition, and also remembered her parents’ pain in the early years of his life. She found it difficult to accept that God would create this situation. “My brother will not be able to lead an independent life, and that’s a hard reality to accept,” explained Sarah. Additionally, Sarah felt a dichotomy between the Judaism she learned about at school and the religion she practiced at home. Her family maintained a strictly kosher home, but otherwise was not observant. “My parents raised me to have a strong sense of Jewish identity, a deep attachment to Israel and a desire to better the world. But as time went on, I wanted more spiritual involvement,” Sarah said. As she entered sophomore year, Sarah knew she needed to find a spiritual outlet outside of school to help her cope with her many unanswered questions. Sarah channeled her energy to become active in Israel advocacy through programs like AIPAC. Marc Lennon, then city director of Memphis NCSY, heard about her leadership skills and recruited her to attend an NCSY summer program. Sarah enrolled in NCSY’s Girls Israel Volunteer Experience (GIVE). Before leaving on her summer trip, Sarah attended her first NCSY event: Midwest NCSY’s Spring Regional. “Hearing the seniors tell their stories over Shabbat and at banquet about how they searched for answers through Judaism was incredibly inspiring,” Sarah remembered. “It made me want to be a part of it.” After returning home from GIVE, Sarah began taking on additional mitzvot, including holding herself to higher standards of tzniut (modesty). She also jump-started her involvement in NCSY by joining the Memphis chapter board. “Sarah has incredible sincerity,” said Erin Stiebel, director of NCSY GIVE. “She always wants to learn about new ideas and help others find the authenticity within Judaism that they

Sarah (center) with her friends at Midwest NCSY’s Spring Banquet.

are looking for.” In starting her new journey, Sarah was forced to sacrifice her dream of becoming a professional figure skater. She began skating at age nine and would routinely rise at 4 a.m. to practice for two hours before school, in addition to four more hours on Saturday and Sunday. “Giving up skating was really tough. I loved skating, and I miss my friends and coaches. However, keeping mitzvot on a deeper level felt very right to me. I was trading one love for another,” Sarah said. Last summer, Sarah attended NCSY’s Jewish Overseas Leadership Training (JOLT) and was inspired by how her advisors balanced observant Judaism with an American lifestyle. She returned home determined to expand her relationship with Judaism and give back to NCSY. “I was on fire,” she said. In October, when she was asked to join national board as part of the Israel committee, she accepted. It was the perfect opportunity for her to continue giving back to NCSY. Her parents, Victoria and Alberto, were not surprised with Sarah’s new approach to religion. “Sarah has been in Jewish day school for 15 years. It’s not like we were going to keel over in shock if she became observant,” Victoria said. “Even when she was very little, Sarah was a contemplative child. We always felt it was important to give her a positive Jewish identity, but we left it up to her as to how she wanted to express that identity. ” “My parents have always been supportive of me and my decisions,” Sarah added. Sarah is proud to say that she has now kept Shabbat for over a year, which has had a positive impact on her relationship with her family. “One great thing about Sarah becoming Shomer Shabbat is that we leave the electronic world and focus on each other,” Victoria said. “There are no distractions while we discuss and process things which

happened during the week. This also deepened Sarah’s relationship with both Alberto and me. We cherish that a lot.” Additionally, Sarah has found new ways to bring her own interests into Torah learning. This past year she began a chavruta (learning session) with Shira Nachbar, city director of Memphis NCSY, and together, they studied various ways women can expand their role in Judaism. “I had no idea that Sarah only recently started keeping Shabbat,” Shira said. “She is incredibly deep-rooted in Judaism.” Although Sarah always maintained a strong relationship with her brother, she has come to a new understanding of life with an autistic sibling. “Jacob’s disability has pushed me to look for answers about religion and our place in the world,” Sarah said. “Challenges push us to develop and better ourselves. I try to be more patient and open-minded. Although I see his limitations, I also enjoy many happy moments with my sweet, funny brother.” With high school behind her, Sarah is looking forward to the future: she will be spending the upcoming year studying at Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim (MMY) before beginning her studies at Barnard College in New York City. “Being in an all-women’s secular college is important to me,” said Sarah. “I want to be exposed to many different viewpoints. This will challenge me to deepen my understanding of my own practice and faith. After spending a year in seminary, I hope to inspire others just as I have been inspired.” Sarah is grateful for the journey she has traveled in the last three years and wants to help others who are struggling to find their inner passions. “My experiences with NCSY have transformed my life,” she said. “I have found my spark, my passion and my support system.” u

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

PHOTO: JOSH WEINBERG

Noah Farrell in Granada, Spain, on a once-in-a-lifetime trip with NCSYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Euro ICE. 26

Being elected to regional board by your peers is a big moment in the life of any NCSYer. It’s a sign of trust and respect from your fellow NCSYers, and a chance to make a real impact on the region for the upcoming year. For Noah Farrell, entering his senior year, the moment was also a milestone — a testament to the strength of one young man, and how NCSY helped him overcome a tragic past and become a leader in his community. Speaking with Noah today, his friendly demeanor and warmth give no indication of the obstacles of his youth and the troubled childhood he left behind. Beginning his life in a home rife with challenges, when Noah was three, he and his two brothers were removed from their mother’s care and spent two years in the foster care system before being reunited with their father. Over the next few years, the Farrells tried several different public schools to find a good fit for the three boys, but hardships followed them and their schooling was continuously interrupted. When Noah was 14, he was the only one of his three brothers still living in the house when his father was diagnosed with liver cancer. “I was alone with him, I didn’t really go to school. I just stayed home so I could take care of him,” Noah recalled. His father passed away a few months later, and his mother passed away shortly thereafter. Noah was behind in his studies, with no family left to turn to. He went to live with Ruth, a friend of his mother’s, while they decided on his future. Big changes had to be made. Ruth decided the best place for him would be a Jewish day school. After a short time in public school, Noah’s first step into the Jewish community was through “Campership” — a scholarship from the Cleveland Federation and the Jewish Family Services Association that allowed him to attend Camp Wise. He then continued on to Agnon School for middle school, and worked hard to gain entry into Fuchs Mizrachi School. He started there in 9th grade without much prior exposure to Orthodox

Over the next few years, the Farrells tried several different public schools to find a good fit for the three boys, but hardships followed them, and their schooling was continuously interrupted.

Judaism, and his peers introduced him to NCSY. “I started out going to one Shabbaton, and I sort of kept going. But Yarchei Kallah was really where I connected — all of the learning, and the atmosphere… I felt a spark inside of me after that.” Noah attended every event he could, and made a special connection with Rabbi Arieh Friedner, city director of Cleveland NCSY. “Rabbi Arieh has been there every step of the way — every time I needed to be at his house, he happily opened his doors and talked to me,” said Noah, his voice quieting. “He’s a big part of the reason I am who I am today.” The feeling of closeness is mutual. “Noah’s one of the teens that I’m most thankful to have as a part of my life,” said Rabbi Friedner. “He works hard to become a better person and a better Jew. He’s one of those teens that gives you the feeling a parent has when they see their own kids doing well.” Noah took on an NCSY chavrutah (learning partner) in 9th grade and learned every other day with an NCSY advisor, a routine he has maintained throughout high school. Although the spark was lit and the NCSY fire was aflame, Noah still had some bumps in his journey. Adjusting to life at Fuchs Mizrachi was more difficult than he anticipated. At the end of 10th grade, Noah switched to public school for a few months where he wore a kippah as a result of the Jewish connection he forged in NCSY — but he was bullied because of it. The cancellation of Noah’s summer plans on The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ) due to unrest in Israel was also a major disappointment. Between 10th and 11th grade, Noah had to think hard about the direction his future was taking. Before starting 11th grade, he dedicated himself to getting back into Fuchs Mizrachi, and worked with the administration to put together a plan that would set him up for success, including having him live with a family in the Jewish community closer to the school. That summer, Noah was introduced to a new boarding family, the Foxes, who welcomed him into their home. Brian and Cheryl Fox’s only child Jenna just left for her year in Israel, and their home now had plenty of room for Noah. Jenna was involved in NCSY, and had known Noah when they were both in Fuchs Mizrachi. Knowing from personal experience how powerful the NCSY experience is for teenagers, the Foxes agreed to host Noah. The bond formed between Noah and the Foxes runs deep. “The Foxes really took me in and treated me like family,” said Noah happily. “I’m just really blessed to have them in my life.”

After moving in with the Foxes, Noah found a home with NCSY.

“He’s so driven, so passionate about his Yiddishkeit… having the hand that Noah was dealt, and seeing him work so hard to go the other way, to make good choices — he’s one of my heroes,” said Brian. Rabbi Tzali Freedman, regional director of Central East NCSY, reflected, “Noah is a hero because it is he who is transforming his life, but we are in awe of Cheryl and Brian. In a quiet and humble way, their magnanimous heart is on full display. In every sense of the word, they have brought Noah into their lives as one of their own. Noah is so fortunate to have them.” With an improved living situation and a renewed drive, Noah entered 11th grade ready to learn and immerse himself into the NCSY community. As he continued to grow with Rabbi Friedner and increase his participation, his love for NCSY grew exponentially. Noah transformed into a leader in his region and doesn’t miss an event if he can help it. This past spring, he was elected to regional board as vice president of communications, where he’ll handle the region’s social media presence. “He is so loved by the community because of who he is as a person — he just wants to inspire people,” said Cheryl fondly. After a hectic year of hard work and proving himself, Noah’s path is clear. He spent his summer on Euro ICE with Director Rabbi Israel Lashak, touring Spain and Israel, and will enter his senior year at Fuchs Mizrachi with a strong outlook and a new sense of direction. But wherever Noah goes, NCSY will always be there. “NCSY is a safe haven — it started out for me as just an outlet,” said Noah. “Now it’s my home.” u ROSH HASHANAH 2015

Portland, Oregon

28 PHOTOS: ONCE CLICK STUDIO

Privilege is a word that’s been thrown around my whole life — usually in regard to me and almost everyone I know. I have so many things to be thankful for that the list would definitely trail out the door. I live in the oasis of Southwest Portland, our own land of milk and honey, and I am lucky to be a part of a community where I feel welcomed and secure. Inside this safe bubble, I live in yet an even smaller and safer bubble, Riverdale High School, where the word privilege can describe nearly every student there. But this

year, my safe bubble within a bubble was punctured, and antiSemitism — the thing that I was most scared of — slipped right into my safest place in the world.

This spring, anti-Semitism came to Riverdale High School. A student’s name was written on the bathroom wall and under it were the words: “We’re here, and we’re coming to get you.” Underneath the words was a swastika, the symbol displayed on the Nazi flag in the 1940s, and now a universal symbol of genocide and hate. When I was first told of the hateful graffiti, I felt personally attacked. Even though it wasn’t my name on the wall, the swastika felt like an assault on me, my friends and my family. As a naive and sheltered teenager, I believed that systematic hatred was outdated, so WWII-era. This was the first time that anti-Semitism ceased being a legend and became an alarming reality in my hometown. Together with several other Riverdale students, I led an assembly to discuss the situation. We used the 50 minutes allotted to discuss antiSemitism’s history and its effect on the Jewish community. But, to make a long story short, what we discovered was appalling. Too many students were utterly indifferent. There were people who understood the gravity of the situation, and naturally, they were the ones who were most educated about history. But there

West Coast NCSY’s relentless focus on leadership inspired me to pursue an active role in ending ignorance at my school and other local schools.

were many other students who had little or no idea about the horrors of the Holocaust — and worse, they didn’t even care. That struck a serious chord in me and I knew something needed to change. The Holocaust can be uncomfortable to talk about, but it is necessary that every person make an effort to tell over the story of what happened. No one is at fault for not knowing about the Holocaust, but I would blame myself if I didn’t do something to teach others about it. How can we, the next generation, prevent this type of abomination from occurring again when so many of us don’t understand, or know about, the genocide in the first place? Portland NCSY Director Doovie Jacoby helped me figure out my next move. I felt frustrated that many students could not grasp the gravity of the situation. A whole nation was attacked because of what started as a small act of hatred. After listening to my exasperated account of the assembly, Doovie gave me some of the most valuable advice I had ever received: “Don’t wait for passion to die out. Use this unique energy, which only comes in small increments, to do something inspiring.” Those few words changed my life. I feel so lucky that I am a part of an organization that encourages students to act on their passions, rather than sit idly by. West Coast NCSY’s relentless focus on leadership inspired me to pursue an active role in ending ignorance at my school and other local schools. My history teacher allowed me to deliver a presentation about the Holocaust to the sophomore class. I explained how the Holocaust was not inevitable: each individual made the decision to be an active or passive participant. Today, everyone continues to be responsible when it comes to preventing oppression and bigotry. Hatred can stem from accepting a stereotype, believing that someone is inferior or even writing vile words on a bathroom wall. The message to me was clear: we can’t wait to speak up. We can’t allow ourselves to make the same mistake twice. Before this year, I had no trouble defending my identity. My Jewishness had never been questioned or threatened. My safe little bubble allowed me to mind my own business and proceed with my Jewish identity uninterrupted. I now understand what

Noa (left) with Oregon NCSY Director Meira Spivak after receiving her Standing With Israel Award.

being a Jew really means, and it takes a lot more than I had originally thought. I now see being Jewish as having an inherent responsibility to defend my family — the greater Jewish people. As a member of the young generation, it is also my responsibility to prevent bigotry, which can frequently be found in the most sheltered of places. This feeling of responsibility prompted me to spread this message to as many people as I could. Doovie, along with Oregon NCSY director Meira Spivak, accompanied me to various high schools in the Portland area to raise awareness about the Holocaust and to remind everyone of the duty we share as members of the young generation. I remember first learning about the Holocaust. I was frustrated and angry. It bothered me that a whole nation of people could stand by as so many innocent people were being murdered. However, after this experience, I’ve realized how easy it is to be a bystander. Being passive doesn’t make one good or evil, it’s simply just easier to mind one’s own business. It would have been a lot easier to ignore that swastika on the bathroom wall. My life may have gone on as it was without any interruptions. But then I think of the 11 million people who were slaughtered because people responded too late. That’s the message for the young generation: the future is in our hands, and I encourage everyone to take the more difficult path. One voice has made a difference; imagine what a whole chorus of voices can achieve. u

Noa Cohen is an active Oregon NCSYer and passionate about advocating for Judaism and Israel. She is a classically trained pianist, a member of her high school’s mock trial team, president of the drama club and founder of Service Seniors, a club dedicated to serving the senior citizens of the community. This speech was delivered to parents and NCSYers at Oregon NCSY’s Awards Banquet in May 2015.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

Aby Volcovich is seeing Judaism clearly, and he is helping others see as well — both with their eyes and their hearts. When Aby was younger, he felt stifled by the way Judaism was taught in school. “I would associate being Jewish with being in Hebrew school,” noted Aby, “and I didn’t like anything that reminded me of school.” Aby — who was born in Mexico City, Mexico, and moved with his family to Toronto, Ontario, when he was six — attended Jewish day school through 8th grade, but chose to enroll at the local public high school because of its free tuition and its exemplary arts program. “I was interested in studying drama and acting,” Aby said. Although there were lots of other Jewish teenagers, there were no organized Jewish activities on campus. Aby’s parents were not observant, but felt strongly about their children connecting to Judaism and their rich heritage. “It was important for us to raise our kids in a thriving Jewish community to facilitate their growth and enable them to have a Jewish education,” said Moy, Aby’s father. “NCSY was incredibly helpful in creating that environment.” In 10th grade, Aby’s mother Mery was walking with a friend when she heard about NCSY’s Torah High — an after-school program for public school students to take Jewish courses for high school credits. “It was exactly what they were looking for to maintain my Jewish connection,” explained Aby. “My mother thought it would be a good idea and enrolled me.” “I was hesitant to go at first,” Aby added, “but after one session I was wowed by the relaxed nature of the program. It didn’t feel like school.” He found the environment welcoming and open to the questions he needed answered. Instead of the regimented structure of school, he was surprised by the friendly relationship between the students and teachers/advisors. In addition to the courses he took, Aby started a chabura (group learning session) with NCSY volunteer Binyamin

NCSY has allowed me to explore these topics in a way that was educational and enjoyable at the same time.

Sigler and scheduled weekly one-on-one discussions with advisor Hillel Bierbrier. “These outlets gave me the opportunity to learn about Jewish questions and concepts that always intrigued me, but I struggled with answering some of them, like why bad things happen to good people,” said Aby. “We would often begin with a simple casual conversation that always naturally evolved into a much deeper discussion,” recalled Hillel. “Aby has an amazing fire to learn that we all should strive to emulate.” The summer following 10th grade, Aby attended NCSY’s flagship Israel summer program for public school teens, The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ). Similar to his experience at Torah High, Aby immediately felt comfortable and enjoyed learning about Judaism. “I was inspired by seeing so many students like myself build a connection with their advisors and find answers to their questions,” Aby said. “My advisors treated me like a friend, instead of just a student.” At the end of the trip, Aby, who dabbled in video production, produced an inspirational picture montage of highlights from the trip, as well as an additional thank you video for NCSYers to send to their parents, expressing their gratitude for the summer of a lifetime. After returning home, Aby was asked to join Toronto NCSY’s executive committee and served as the media master of the committee during his junior and senior years of high school. “I was in charge of all the social media and digital aspects of the programs,” he explained. As Aby increased his involvement with NCSY, he tried to help other students from his high school connect with Judaism. Aby founded a Jewish Student Union (JSU) club at his school and began recruiting friends to Torah High. “When I started I was the only one who attended,” he said. “Now there are 15 students from my high school who go on a regular basis — many of whom have also gone on TJJ.” “Aby is the kind of guy you want on your team,” Binyamin said. “And he’s the kind of guy whose team people want to be on. He’s brought dozens of students with him to NCSY programs.” He also began to recruit for TJJ, speaking at open houses and other events about his experience on the program. His younger sister attended TJJ this past summer. “Aby has done tremendous work in helping others become inspired through NCSY programs,” said Rabbi Leib Irons, director of education for NCSY Canada. “We’re incredibly proud of how Aby has grown and are confident that he will only continue to grow and help others.”

In addition to helping his friends find their connection to Judaism, Aby discovered he had a talent for helping others see life through a stylish lens. After taking a woodshop class at school, he started creating wood-frame sunglasses based on a pair he owned. “I love sunglasses and wanted to design my own,” explained Aby. He has sold a few frames so far, and plans to continue the business while in college. After 11th grade, Aby went on Euro ICE, and, like TJJ, he enjoyed the relaxed environment that allowed him to learn Torah, build a connection with Judaism and benefit from the camaraderie of an NCSY summer program. As senior year began, Aby found himself attending NCSY events nearly as much as he was in school. “I had something almost every night,” Aby recalled. “JSU and Mishmar on Tuesdays, Torah High and Learn N’ Earn on Wednesdays, and various other events throughout the week.” On top of all his studies he also volunteered with other local organizations including Tomchei Shabbos. “It’s amazing how far I’ve come over the last two years. Before I started with Torah High I never enjoyed learning about Jewish topics and values,” Aby said. “But NCSY has allowed me to explore these topics in a way that was educational and enjoyable at the same time.” “Through NCSY, Aby developed leadership skills,” Moy added. “They have provided him with an environment to grow in and learn more.” As a result of Aby’s studies in NCSY and their own personal growth in Judaism, Aby’s parents now keep a kosher home. “It was something we thought was important,” Moy said. “It allows us to open our doors to the Jewish community for Shabbat and weekly meals.” This coming fall, Aby will begin a four-month program with MASA in Israel, splitting his time between a kibbutz and army training. Following the program, he will spend the remainder of the year studying at Yeshivat Aish HaTorah. When he returns to Canada, Aby will study business at Ryerson University, and hopes to continue the learning sessions he started in high school. Aby also wants to continue his involvement in NCSY, helping future NCSYers find a comfortable and fun environment in which to learn Torah and explore their Judaism. “I would like to be an advisor when I come back and go to university,” Aby said. “Just as NCSY helped me keep my Judaism wherever I go, I want to help others. It has given me roots that I know will last forever.” u

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

Dr. William and Adrienne Rockwood (bottom right) celebrate with their children and grandchildren upon receiving the Dr. Morton Berger Memorial Award at the annual Maimonides Hebrew Day School Scholarship Tribute Dinner in Albany, New York.

Adrienne Rockwood has attended numerous NCSY Shabbatons in her hometown of Albany, New York. She loves the spirited singing and davening, and particularly enjoys the thoughtprovoking discussions and inspirational speeches. But Adrienne is not your typical high school student or advisor — she is a proud grandmother who attends with her husband of nearly 62 years, Dr. William (Bill) Rockwood, and their grandchildren. The Rockwoods have 16 grandchildren ranging in age from 8 to 34, several of whom were involved in NCSY in the past or are currently serving as regional presidents and active chapter members. “NCSY has had a meaningful impact on our grandchildren,” said Adrienne. “It has a way of making you feel that you have a role to play, no matter what your age, in the growth and spirituality of young people throughout the generations.” For the Rockwoods, NCSY is an intergenerational experience that has helped the family grow in their Judaism. Today, Adrienne and Bill are active members of their local Orthodox shul and frequently attend NCSY events with relatives who live in the region. “We encourage our grandchildren’s participation in NCSY and are excited to join them at events,” said Adrienne. “We get so much joy from seeing them there with their friends, learning to be young Jewish leaders. If you watch their faces during discussions and prayers, you can see something very beautiful happening.” “When we go on Shabbatons in Congregation Beth Abraham-Jacob, 32

we so much enjoy seeing [former] Regional Director Marc Fein ‘in action,’ inspiring the kids,” added Bill. “We also truly enjoy observing the attitudes of the young people, the questions they raise and the responses they give. It is very rewarding to hear their intelligent discussions.” Former Regional Director Marc Fein reflected, “The Rockwoods are truly special people and have added so much to our region and the greater Upstate community. They, along with their children and grandchildren, truly embody the values and mission of NCSY and have shown us what it means to live a life as passionate Jews.” Now retired — Bill was formerly a biology professor and Adrienne worked as a teacher and career counselor — the Rockwoods devote much of their time to communal causes. In 2002, they founded the Senior Hope organization, an outpatient alcohol addiction clinic for people age 50 and over. In June, they received the Dr. Morton Berger Memorial Award at the annual Maimonides Hebrew Day School Scholarship Tribute Dinner, honoring their efforts as educators and community leaders. That sense of communal involvement is one of the values the Rockwoods embrace wholeheartedly, and one that they see mirrored in NCSY’s mantra as well. A second shared value is a strong love for Israel, an ideal that the Rockwoods have always strived to pass down to their children. “We had the privilege of sending each of our kids to Israel when they turned 16, and they were able to connect to the land and our relatives there, and return inspired,” said Adrienne. “Today, we are so proud to have four

grandchildren in Israel; two have made aliyah, one is serving in the Israel Defense Forces and one is studying at Ben Gurion University Medical School in the Negev.” The Rockwoods are grateful that they have been able to grow together as a family in their Judaism, observance and communal contributions. “It’s been beautiful to watch my family’s development as we all work on maintaining our strong connection to our Jewish roots,” said Adrienne. “My grandchildren are in touch frequently and always want to hear what Bubby and Zaydee are doing – it makes them happy to know that we are so proud of them for their involvement in NCSY and the greater Jewish community.” NCSY has also helped the Rockwood grandchildren appreciate the importance of being involved in the Jewish community. “During an NCSY Havdalah ceremony, you can see how moved the children are,” said Adrienne. “They understand what they’ve been given, and they want to transmit that to younger children and, eventually, to their own families by becoming involved.” The next generation of Rockwoods — including Adrienne and Bill’s 11 great-grandchildren — will no doubt embrace strong Jewish values and a sense of community, following in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents. “They are too young to be involved in NCSY now, but I have a feeling they will be when they are older,” said Adrienne. “These Jewish values have spanned generations of our family, and we hope they will continue for many years, in partnership with NCSY.”

By Tova Ross

For dedicated NCSY supporters Lior and Drora Arussy of Fair Lawn, New Jersey, it’s important to help strengthen a Judaism that is empowering, not restrictive. “There are a few principles that guide our family’s thinking on charitable giving,” explained Lior. “The first one is to focus on a Judaism that is more ta’aseh [to do] than lo ta’aseh [don’t do]. Judaism has become so focused on prohibitions, and Drora and I respond much more to a Judaism that is concerned with a positive, can-do attitude.” The second principle? “It’s nice to have an organization that has a grand vision, but you also need the staff to execute that,” Lior continued. “We find both these principles tenfold at NCSY.” After moving to Fair Lawn eight years ago, the Arussys met with Rabbi Ethan Katz, regional director of NJ NCSY, Rabbi Yaakov Glasser and Rabbi Steven Burg (both formerly of NCSY). They explained NCSY’s mission of inspiring passionate Jewish observance in boys and girls during the critically important teenage years. “I connected with the rabbis’ excitement in bringing a beautiful Judaism to teens,” said Lior. “NCSY’s staff goes above and beyond, and genuinely cares about other Jews and spreading a light in this world.” Two of the Arussys’ children, Liad and Nathaniel, became active NCSY participants, with Liad even serving on regional board.

“I like connecting my giving to dynamic, active programs, where teens are doing more than just listening to a rabbi’s speech,” said Lior. “With NCSY, I’m supporting a cause that empowers teens through real, powerful action.” The Arussys lend their support to service learning missions that allow teens to help rebuild communities in need and to NCSY’s Leadership Experience And Development (LEAD), a special teen fellowship for leadership development. LEAD was created in 2012 when Lior challenged Rabbi Katz and Rabbi Glasser to find and train the best NCSY advisors. LEAD accepts select motivated high school juniors and seniors and aims to transform them into future leaders of the Jewish community through service learning trips, visits with influential communal leaders, participation in the AIPAC conference in Washington and unique programming designed to enhance leadership skills. After completing the fellowship, teens are ready to be the most effective NCSY advisors and contributors to the greater Jewish community. While charity might begin at home, it doesn’t end there for the Arussys. As president and CEO of Strativity — a New Jersey-based company with international offices that teaches brands and corporations to maximize their customer experience strategies — Lior instituted an initiative for each of the firm’s 65 employees to receive a “charity budget,” a set amount they can allocate each year to donate to the charity of their choosing. Once a year, the company holds a celebratory conference where each employee discusses the cause he or she has chosen. “NCSY was chosen several times,” said Lior, “but we have a huge variety of causes, from pet shelters to synagogues and cancer organizations. Our firm also takes on a pro bono case each year. This year, we chose the American Diabetes Association and raised awareness about the disease.”

Lior’s passion for tzedakah stems from a seminal experience he had as a high school student in Israel, his native country. “I had a rabbi who suffered from a childhood disease that crippled him and I was fascinated by how much he committed himself to acts of chesed. To me, he seemed like a needy person, as he couldn’t even walk straight, but he was just so focused on what he could do for others. That made a huge impression on me.” Today, the Arussys support a wide variety of causes that they feel reflect their interest in a positive and proactive Judaism. These causes include Gesher, American Friends of Yeshivat Har Etzion (Lior, an alumnus, is a member of the Board of Trustees), The Friendship Circle, Tzohar and Beit Hillel, among others. Lior has authored five books on customer experience, employee engagement and experience innovation. He has published over 100 articles on these subjects and won several awards for his perspectives on leadership. Drora is a Hebrew language professor for a number of New York-area universities and several online programs. The Arussys have five children: Dalia, who is pursuing her Master’s degree at the Technion in Israel; Sarah Rachel, or Cheli, who is a student at the honors program at University of Maryland; Liad, who finished her studies at Migdal Oz and is entering the Israeli army; Nathaniel, who is a senior at Torah Academy of Bergen County in Teaneck; and Ronya, who is a third grader at Yeshivat Noam in Paramus. Among the multitude of worthy causes that exist, Lior remains steadfast in his belief that NCSY is of the most crucial ones. “NCSY is reaching children at a critical intersection in their lives, when their personalities are being developed,” he explained. “NCSY creates meaning and purpose for them that they can’t get anywhere else — not from school or technology. NCSY is an organization that inspires the ta’aseh and I am proud to support it.” u

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

Rina with her husband Dov and five children. 34

When Rina Friedman (now Emerson) walked into shul all dolled up for her Bat Mitzvah party in August of 1990, she heard about an NCSY chapter board meeting taking place in the basement. It was her big day, but on a lark, she walked downstairs to introduce herself. It was only years later when she realized the profound impact that the chance meeting had on her life. After meeting then-Fair Lawn City Director Howard Goldfischer, Rina was immediately invited to an event the following week with an opportunity to get involved in the chapter board. Though Rina admits she initially joined NCSY primarily for social reasons, she rarely missed an event. “I got involved [in NCSY] when I was 12,” she said. “All my friends were doing it, and since none of us had our driver’s licenses yet, it was the best way to see each other.” However, as Rina’s involvement grew, the draw of the social aspect diminished. “I realized how much NCSY was guiding my life,” she recalled. “It was not just about friends, but living a Torah-inspired life dedicated to serving the Jewish people. ” Looking back, one of Rina’s most meaningful NCSY memories as a teen was a simple conversation she had. A community member asked Rina if all of her friends went to the same school. No, she replied, her friends came from all over, both public school and yeshiva day school. “That’s what NCSY is really about,” Rina explained. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from. We’re all one family. Yes, we might go to different schools and come from different backgrounds, but we share the same values — a love of Yiddishkeit and a love for one another. To this day, some of those girls are still my closest friends.” After high school, Rina spent a year and a half studying in Israel at Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim (MMY) and

Working in a place that has meaning and purpose makes you want to come to work. Every morning when I walk through the doors of my office, I know I’m helping the Jewish people.

A LIFE DEDICATED TO NCSY AND THE OU Over the last 17 years, Rina has made an incredible impact on the Jewish community through NCSY and the OU. Take a look at some of her roles. • Chapter Advisor for Passaic, New Jersey NCSY • TJJ Assistant Director, NCSY • Outreach Coordinator, New Jersey NCSY (L to R) Rina with Karen (Dublon) Hochhauser and Shira (Resnick) Salzman at New Jersey NCSY’s 1995 Spring Regional.

then attended Stern College for Women in New York City. She immediately reconnected with NCSY as a regional advisor for New Jersey. In 1998, Rina met Rabbi Barry Goldfischer — Howard’s brother — who asked her to become an advisor on a new NCSY summer program designed for public school teens, The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ). After meeting with Rabbi Goldfischer and Rabbi Steven Burg, then city director of Detroit NCSY, in an airport to discuss the program, Rina joined the team and summer planning began. That summer, Rina served as the assistant director of TJJ. As part of the program, the teens spent one day learning with NCSY Kollel. There, she was introduced to one of their advisors, NCSY alumnus Dov Emerson of Memphis, Tennessee. A year later, after Rina’s second summer on TJJ, the two were married. “Although I was hesitant to be an advisor on TJJ, it turned out to be an unbelievable program and ultimately led me to my husband,” reflected Rina with a smile on her face. “You’re already one step ahead when you meet someone at NCSY,” said Dov. “Everyone there shares the same goal of impacting the Jewish future — and I’m thrilled to have found someone who is equally as passionate as I am about living a life and raising a family dedicated to serving Klal Yisrael.” Throughout her career, Rina was sought out by several other large Jewish organizations. But time after time, NCSY and the OU always felt like home. “Working in a place that has meaning and purpose makes you want to come to work,” she explained. “Every morning when I walk through the doors of my office, I know I’m helping the Jewish people.” When Rina’s husband was named Head of School at Yeshiva University High School of Los Angeles (YULA), they relocated to the West Coast and her NCSY career appeared to be over.

• LaVe and Project Challenge Coordinator, New Jersey NCSY • Program Coordinator, New Jersey NCSY • Office Manager, Long Island NCSY • Program Director, Long Island NCSY • Assistant Director, Long Island NCSY • Director of Institutional Advancement, New York NCSY • Alumni Director, OU • Assistant Director of Development and Director of Data Services, OU • NCSY at 60 Project Coordinator, NCSY • Regional Director, West Coast NCSY “Relocating is always difficult,” Rina reflected. “It was an added difficulty to realize I’d have to leave behind a job I loved.” Unbeknownst to her, West Coast NCSY had an opening for a new regional director just months after her family moved and fortunately for West Coast NCSY, one of the best NCSY professionals in the country had just moved to LA. Rina received a call from Rabbi Micah Greenland, international director of NCSY, and rejoined the NCSY team a few weeks later. “Rina is incredibly accomplished, both in running programs for teens, as well as in administration and management,” said Rabbi Greenland. “She has served NCSY in many capacities over the years and has succeeded in every realm. In a very short period of time as West Coast Regional Director, she earned the respect and admiration of the teens and staff. I am confident that the region will see even greater growth and success under her leadership going forward.” Summing up her experience with NCSY, Rina said: “I was on Michlelet as a teenager and spent three summers as the associate director of TJJ. The effects of these programs are endless — and the same holds true for year-round NCSY programming. Working for NCSY is investing in a teen’s future. But there’s more than that — I see the difference and impact NCSY has made in my life every day.” u ROSH HASHANAH 2015

How do you make peace with the past, especially when that past includes the Holocaust? Manfred “Fred” Hecht, 84, grew up in Nazi Germany and was lucky to escape alive. When he arrived in America, he discovered the healing powers of art, specifically in the technique of pointillist painting, where small dots of paint are used to create larger images. Hecht’s powerful story of hope was told over in the short documentary, “Fred: Art as a Method of Healing.” “Beauty is in everything,” explained Hecht, the only remaining survivor of the 400 Jewish families that once lived in his small village. And his story might have never been told if not for the work of one capable and dedicated NCSYer, Sarit Sandler. “My goal as a filmmaker was to create a story that dealt with the life of a Holocaust survivor and how his past traumatic experiences became a positive influence in his life,” said Sarit, who graduated in June from the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville, Florida. Since its premiere in May 2014 at the school’s Spring Showcase, “Fred” has played around the country and inspired hundreds of people, along with winning national accolades and awards from the Austin Film Festival and Palm Beach International Film Festival. Sarit’s interest in working with Holocaust survivors was fostered by her involvement with her local Southern NCSY chapter, Jacksonville (JAX). “Holocaust programming is an active part of our chapter,” explained Rabbi Shaya Hauptman, director of NCSY JAX. “Given the age of survivors, we realized it’s of utmost importance for our NCSYers to meet and learn from them while they still can.” “I’m really lucky that I had the opportunity to meet survivors through NCSY,” said Sarit. With the help of the local Jewish Federation, Sarit conducted extensive research to find a survivor with an 36

My goal as a filmmaker was to create a story that dealt with the life of a Holocaust survivor and how his past traumatic experiences became a positive influence in his life. intriguing story who was either a musician or artist. Fred was the perfect fit. “Rather than detail every harrowing encounter Fred faced in Germany, I focused on his ability to transform the horrors of his past into the success of his future through art,” Sarit explained. “Fred only paints happy pictures because he wants to make others happy through his work.” In making the documentary, Sarit depended on her NCSY family for support. “When I felt resistance from some of the students and teachers at school since the film was connected to Judaism, my NCSY advisors were there to listen and tell me to forget about the negativity. They reminded me to stay true to myself. They also gave me the confidence I needed to pitch the idea for production.” Sarit began regularly attending NCSY events when she transitioned from a Jewish day school to a public high school. Latte & Learning and Shabbatons connected her with Jewish friends and helped her understand the importance of her Jewish heritage. “Going to a public high school with no Jewish presence can be really difficult, even though I love my school and my friends,” she admitted. “NCSY Shabbatons made me fall in love with Judaism. They gave me the inspiration to be Jewish and to be a proud ambassador for my Judaism in my public school.”

In 2013, Sarit attended The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ), NCSY’s flagship Israel summer program for public school teens, which helped to further strengthen her Jewish identity. “It was refreshing to see other teens so happy and involved in their Judaism — yet experiencing the same struggles as me when practicing Judaism in public school,” she said. After returning from The Anne Samson TJJ, Sarit channeled her inspiration and created a Peace in the Middle East Club at her school, which she succeeded in launching despite some initial resistance from school administrators. “I couldn’t sit by and do nothing after seeing other students so misinformed about the conflict,” she said. The school granted her permission to run the club but asked that advertising be strictly through word of mouth. While at first nervous about how the club would be received, it was a resounding success: 30 students came every week. “It was an incredible chance to teach people that there are two sides to every story, no matter what the media portrays,” she said. “Sarit takes on leadership roles and leads by example,” said Rabbi Hauptman. “She really feels a sense of responsibility to help fellow Jews.” The following summer, Sarit attended NCSY’s TJJ Ambassador Poland trip and her documentary on Fred was part of the program’s closing banquet. Sarit plans to study abroad at Bar-Ilan University for a semester of college before attending Florida State University. She eventually wants to pursue a career in documentary filmmaking. Like Fred’s art, where a collection of dots creates a beautiful painting, Sarit’s values and her NCSY experiences blend into the story of one very talented, proud Jewish woman. “It was my honor as a filmmaker to give Fred a voice in the world,” she said. “As an artist, I hope I can continue to tell the incredible stories of people from all over the world.”

PHOTO: BENJI CHEIRIF

When his mother remarried, Ofir Afenzar went from being the only Jew in a public school of 1,200 to being another student in yeshiva.

“It’s simple: I wanted to give back even some of what I have gained from NCSY,” stated Ofir Afenzar. “When I was studying in Israel at Yeshivat Lev HaTorah for the year, every time I learned a new concept I always thought to myself: ‘How am I going to relate this to the NCSYers I work with?’ I know NCSYers are always asking for knowledge without even asking, because I was that boy.” Ofir’s NCSY story began when he was 13. After his mother Zehava remarried, the family relocated to Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, to live with Ofir’s new stepfather, Avi Tsipori. As his parents became more interested in Judaism, they began attending the local Chabad on Sunday mornings with Ofir. Although Ofir often went begrudgingly, he started learning the Hebrew alphabet and practiced saying the Shema prayer. “It was a bit of a change for me,” said Ofir. “Growing up in Fountainville, Pennsylvania, I was the only Jew in my elementary school of 1,200 students. I always knew I was Jewish — we’d go to shul to hear the megilah on Purim and have a Passover seder — but that was really it.” After spending the summer visiting Chabad each week, Ofir started middle school at Abrams Hebrew Academy in the fall. It was a trial year for Ofir — if he liked it, he would continue, and if he didn’t, he would switch back to public school. It was a difficult transition to say the least. Not only did Ofir have to adapt to a new family situation in a new town, he suddenly had to deal with a new religion. “It felt like a different world — and I was not part of it. I didn’t

know anything. When the whole school bentched together after lunch, I didn’t know what was happening,” reflected Ofir, now a junior at Yeshiva University. “It also took a toll on me socially. They didn’t seem like my type of people. They played board games on Saturday, while I watched ‘The Simpsons.’” One day former Jr. NCSY Director Rabbi Rocky Caine came to school during lunch to recruit teens for a Shabbaton. Not knowing what a Shabbaton was, Ofir was intrigued and asked him to explain what the mysterious word meant. After a brief explanation, he signed up. “My first NCSY Shabbaton was somewhat overwhelming,” recalled Ofir. “I was getting super anxious. An advisor saw me and took me into another room. He gave me a glass of juice and told me everything was going to be okay. He told me I should relax and have fun. It was just what I needed to hear, and after that, I had a great time!” Ofir left the Shabbaton with new friends and a strong support system, but most of all, he left with a greater understanding of Judaism. He went from listening to his classmates talk about Judaism to actually experiencing it with them. That was the turning point for him. “The way I saw it, school gave me the facts about Judaism and NCSY put them together,” said Ofir. “I started becoming closer with my school friends who were involved in NCSY, and Rabbi Rocky was an amazing person to look up to.”

With the help of NCSY, over the course of sixth and seventh grade, Ofir and his parents became observant. Ofir went on to attend Kohelet Yeshiva High School, where he continued his involvement in NCSY. At first, he only participated in NCSY events sporadically, but at the end of his sophomore year, Ofir and Rabbi Yitz Levi, director of Philadelphia NCSY, developed a warm relationship and Ofir rarely missed an event. Rabbi Levi was no longer just a city director, but a mentor as well. Senior year was a busy one for Ofir: between being chapter president and student council president at his school, there wasn’t much time for reflection. Over Yarchei Kallah, a program designed for public school teens to learn Torah over winter break, Ofir met an advisor the first night who sat with him for hours. The two discussed where Ofir was holding in life and in what direction he was heading. “When I was deciding what I should do after my senior year, I thought back to that moment and realized what this advisor had done for me,” he said. “Despite just having met me, he took the time to help me figure out what I was doing with my life. He explained that I’m not lost, rather I needed to focus on where I am and what my next step is going to be. That’s when it became clear: I want to help give teens the support and clarity I got from this advisor. That’s my calling.” u

Ofir is a junior at Yeshiva University majoring in Psychology, with a minor in Marketing. He is an advisor for Atlantic Seaboard NCSY and spent the summer as an advisor on The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey Ambassadors Poland (TJJ AP).

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

PHOTO: BENJI CHEIRIF

Vancouver teens on NCSY’s The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey.

Vancouver has the sea, the sun and the summit. And now, thanks to Vancouver NCSY, it has Torah around the clock. Rabbi Samuel and Gila Ross, both originally from England, arrived in this fair city four years ago after having successfully led the Calgary NCSY chapter. They were coming to a chapter that had a solid base, but needed a new burst of life. “We had a lot of challenges,” Rabbi Ross explained. “There wasn’t consistency in terms of the staff, with the notable exception of Rabbi Stephen Berger, the previous regional director of Vancouver NCSY. The chapter suffered as a result.” Rabbi Ross and his wife Gila, who also serves as the youth director of the local Orthodox shul Congregation Schara Tzedeck, decided to shift the focus of the NCSY chapter using some of their techniques developed in Calgary — as they strove to increase Jewish engagement among the several thousand Jewish families that live in the city. “We needed to see what we could do to make this chapter thrive,” said Rabbi Ross. “And so step by step, we broke it down,” First, they needed to determine the best way to recruit large numbers of teens to an event. Within no time, the answer became clear: have teens run the events. By the end of the Rosses first year, they developed an expansive chapter board and began recruiting dedicated NCSYers. They realized that the more thought and effort teens put into running events, the more teens gained from it. “One you’ve got 25 teens who are die-hard NCSYers, the rest is easy,” stated Rabbi Ross. “Teens are your best recruiters, so they will always 38

bring along their friends. And then automatically you have a successful event.” The second approach the Rosses took was to increase the amount of learning programs available to teens in the area. Slowly but surely, Rabbi Ross and his wife set up more and more learning programs. They built on those programs that were already running such as Latte & Learning and Torah High, and brought in tried-andtrue NCSY programs from across North America such as Impact and iLearn, along with programs of their own, thereby creating a winning formula to attract teens from across the religious spectrum. “Torah is the engine that powers NCSY,” Rabbi Ross explained. As they increased the amount of available programs, more and more teens began attending events. “For one of the learning initiatives, Impact, we expected four participants— and instead there were 40! The teens saw that there’s something worth coming out for. They revel in the idea of friendship and a whole Jewish world waiting to be discovered.” The Torah learning worked in tandem with the already-present social element of NCSY. Once teens begin participating regularly, the Rosses transition them to other higher-level NCSY programing. They showed teens how spending their summer on a life-changing experience with NCSY Summer’s The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ) is more meaningful than returning to hockey camp for the tenth year in a row. Other NCSYers traded their winter skiing trip for NCSY’s week-long Yarchei Kallah learning program. Ultimately, teens began choosing to spend a gap year in

Israel after they graduated high school. Gila, also a veteran kiruv worker, explained why NCSY’s work is so critical to the city. “Kids are at an age where they are making decisions for how involved they want to be in their Judaism. When a family becomes more engaged, the challenges are harder. A family can’t move to Israel for a year that easily. With teens, the potential to do something is much greater.” Rabbi Micah Greenland, international director of NCSY, said that the organization was thrilled with the work of Canada NCSY’s Vancouver chapter. “Even in a place with such a high level of affluence and quality of life, there is still a spiritual void for teenagers,” Rabbi Greenland said. “The Ross family and Vancouver NCSY help fill that void with meaning, spirituality and a connection to Hashem.” David Rosengarten, an advisor who became religious during his teen years, captured the electrifying effect the Rosses had on the city. “Vancouver is a small community and the youth are very fragile,” Rosengarten said. “Bringing teens to a Torah environment is essential but difficult to do. The Rosses were consistent in their outreach: they care and above all else — they’re always available. That’s the key to their success.” Their efforts were perfectly captures in a letter an NCSY graduate wrote: “Without your dedication, I would be on a completely different path than I am today. Thank you for showing me this side of myself, and not giving up on me. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to become a better individual. Without NCSY, I would not have realized how much my Jewish identity means and how much more I have to learn and grow.”

HAPPENINGS FROM AROUND THE NCSY UNIVERSE

DETROIT NCSY GOES INTERNATIONAL Detroit NCSY expands its borders of inspiration to Windsor, ON.

350 TEENS LEARN THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THEIR JEWISH NAME Teens in Atlanta, GA, learn the meanings behind their Hebrew names.

JUNIOR NCSY DRAWS STUDENTS FROM ACROSS SOUTHERN CONNECTICUT The next generation of NCSYers is growing in Stamford.

ISRAELI SOLDIERS IMPACT HUNDREDS OF BROOKLYN AND STATEN ISLAND TEENS Two IDF soldiers teach NCSYers about trust in Hashem.

REGIONAL BOARD CREATES #WORDPEACE CAMPAIGN West Coast teens stop rumors and gossip with a #WordPeace campaign.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

ATLANTIC SEABOARD

GREATER WASHINGTON NCSY HAS ITS BEST YEAR YET!

Rabbi Jonah Lerner, Regional Director 410.358.6279 // atsoffice@ncsy.org atlanticseaboard.sncsy.org

NCSY Greater Washington has grown significantly over the past two years, with the average attendance almost tripling at each program. The most significant program to experience growth was the monthly oneg in Kemp Mill, with over 90 teens participating in the last one of the year. A special thank you goes to the Greater Washington community and its teens for their dedication to NCSY.

Baltimore, MD Moshe Heideman - mosheh@ncsy.org

BALTIMORE NCSY CHOPPED COMPETITION Baltimore day school teens have embraced separate gender events, leading to huge success for the DNO (Dudes Night Out) and GNO (Girls Night Out) programs. For the DNO Chopped Competition, each team prepared an appetizer, entrée and dessert with several required ingredients — and whatever could be found in city directors Moshe and Shira Heideman’s pantry or fridge! Contestants were judged on taste, presentation and a d’var Torah connected to their dish. Everyone had a blast and learned how to be mekadesh the chol (sanctify the mundane) in more ways than one!

BALTIMORE CHAPTER END-OF-YEAR LUAU Baltimore NCSY ended the year with a terrific Hawaiithemed farewell BBQ to recognize extraordinary chapter service and to induct the 2015-2016 Chapter Board. After the food and fun, teens gathered around the Heidemans’ cozy firepit for awards and the announcement of this year’s Chapter Board. Chapter President Sara Primak inspired everyone to utilize their summer productively and come back stronger than ever for another fantastic year of Baltimore NCSY. Moshe and Shira Heideman will surely be missed next year.

Greater Washington, MD Rabbi Yudi Riesel - yudi@ncsy.org

Philadelphia, PA & Cherry Hill, NJ Rabbi Yitz Levi - Rabbiyitz@ncsy.org

RABBI YITZCHAK EDELSTEIN HELPS REVIVE CHERRY HILL NCSY Cherry Hill NCSY is celebrating an unprecedented level of growth thanks to a recent addition to Greater Philadelphia NCSY: new JSU Coordinator Rabbi Yitzchak Edelstein. Rabbi E, as he’s fondly known, brought in many new faces over the few short months he has been part of the team, greatly enriching the community.

the challenges facing the Jewish world. The highlight of the night was a speech by Eden Ohayon, a student at Bialik High School, who shared the story of her TJJ journey and how NCSY programs have given her a meaningful Jewish identity and a desire for further exploration. Guests left the evening feeling inspired and with a gift bag that included NCSY benchers, caps and a selection of books.

Thornhill, ON Josh Stein - rabbistein@ncsy.ca

NCSY’S SOCIAL ACTION DRAGON’S DEN NCSY’s Jewish Professional Alliance, JPA, held their annual social action Dragon’s Den at Stone Tile International on May 13, hosted by Sylvia Benchimol. Students presented their ideas to a group of panelists that included various executives: Michael Serruya, founder of Yogen Fruz; Sylvia Benchimol, founder of Stone Tile International; David Matlow, partner at Goodmans LLP; Jeff Moness, founder of CPC; and Bernard Heitner, CEO and co-founder of Cambridge. Each group pitched an initiative that would raise money for a social cause. The winning team’s idea was to hold a casino evening with a poker tournament to benefit Beit Halochem. The event was very successful and raised close to $25,000.

CANADA

250 TEENS AND PARENTS ATTEND AWARDS BANQUET

Rabbi Glenn Black, CEO 905.761.6279 // blackmail@ncsy.ca canada.ncsy.org

More than 250 teens and parents gathered at the annual NCSY and Torah High Awards Banquet. Students, parents and advisors were acknowledged and honored for their commitment to the organizations. Student representatives introduced each award, adding a personal touch to the inspirational evening. It was a special night filled with delicious desserts and tremendous nachas for all.

Montreal, QC Marg Polowin - marg@ncsy.ca

RABBI STEVEN WEIL SPEAKS AT PARLOR MEETING NCSY Montreal held a successful fundraising event at the home of Jonathan and Ariella Eltes with 65 people in attendance. Rabbi Steven Weil, senior managing director of the OU, addressed the community about

Toronto, Ontario Shyndee Kestenbaum - shyndee@ncsy.ca

See mini story below.

BEN CARDIN SCHOLARS CLOSING CEREMONY

he Senator Ben Cardin Jewish Scholars Program, open primarily to public school teens, gathered in Washington DC with its largest group of participants since its inception six years ago. Over the eight-week program run in Baltimore and Greater Washington, teens met with community mentors on Wednesday nights to learn about topics related to Jewish leadership. The program culminated with a lobbying mission to Capitol Hill to meet with local congressmen and a wonderful ceremony at the home of NCSY supporters Denny and Debra Berman. Atlantic Seaboard NCSY is so excited to see this program thrive!

A team of Greater Washington NCSY teens lobbying members of Congress on Capitol Hill.

PHOTO: NOACH KLEIN

PITTSBURGH, PA: Pittsburgh NCSY’s new chapter board, from left to right: Tyler Sikov, MD Luzer, Yosef Cohen Melamed, Tovia Jacobs, Josh Hertzberg, Ben Ungar, Yael Itskowitz, Polina Neft, Yael Perlman, Shira Itskowitz, Sigalle Bahary and Liel Piniezik.

TORONTO NCSY STARTS CLUBS IN PRIVATE SCHOOL Toronto NCSY opened its first JSU club at Bishop Strachan School (BSS). BSS is a private Anglican school where approximately 40 percent of the student population is Jewish. This is the first time that Toronto NCSY has been able to offer Jewish girls who attend BSS a taste of Yiddishkeit in their lives. Building on the success of BSS, Toronto NCSY is now starting a second JSU in Bishop Strachan’s brother school, Upper Canada College, one of the top private schools in the country. This is another exciting opportunity, given that UCC’s student body is 35 percent Jewish and has never had a Jewish club at their school.

TORONTO JSU HOSTS EDUCATION ASSEMBLY The JSU at Forest Hill Collegiate hosted a Holocaust education assembly for the entire student body of 900 teens. The students heard from Mrs. Lea Hochman, a Holocaust survivor, and many different teens from the JSU club. It was an incredibly moving and powerful event.

CENTRAL EAST Rabbi Tzali Freedman, Regional Director 888.471.4514 // ncsyce@ncsy.org centraleast.ncsy.org

Cleveland, OH Rabbi Arieh Friedner - rabbiarieh@ncsy.org

Rabbi Dovid Lichtig - lichtigd@ncsy.org

DETROIT NCSY WINS CHAPTER OF THE YEAR AGAIN!

This summer, 35 teens had their best summer ever on NCSY Summer in the U.S. and Israel. Upon their return, Cleveland NCSY hosted a CLE-TLV BBQ to say “see you later” to the more than 20 teens who departed to Israel for yeshivot, seminaries, colleges and other gap year programs.

For the second time in three years, Detroit NCSY brought home the Central East NCSY Chapter of the Year award. This award is presented to the chapter that exhibits the most success and growth during the year and creates innovative new programming. After winning in 2013, Detroit NCSY set its goals even higher. 2015 brought even more success: brandnew JSU clubs were formed, chesed initiatives were launched and learning programs were reinvented. Along with a revitalized Junior NCSY, everything came together for a year of fantastic growth in numbers and quality programming, resulting in the coveted award!

NEW PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Rabbi Samuel and Gila Ross - samuelross@ncsy.ca

WESTERN CANADA SPRING REGIONAL

Columbus, OH

Western Canada’s Spring Regional was a spectacular success with a record 55 attendees from Vancouver! It was a wonderful Shabbat weekend on Mt. Baker, Washington. The activities were epic, the atmosphere was electric, the weather was sunny and the food was delicious! Guest speaker Rabbi Don Pacht, principal of Vancouver Hebrew Academy, engaged the crowd with a series of magic tricks. Both Rabbi Pacht and Rabbi Glenn Black, CEO of NCSY Canada, delivered powerful messages about living a meaningful life and taking risks. The weekend closed with an awards banquet where teens were recognized for their contributions to NCSY over the past year.

Detroit, MI

WELCOME BACK AND SEE YOU LATER TO TEENS IN ISRAEL

Cleveland NCSY is tremendously exited to welcome superstars Rabbi Menachem Tenenbaum (Rabbi T) and his wife Elana to its team. Rabbi T will be the new Program Director, a position focused on managing the day to day operations of the vast program schedule of NCSY in Cleveland, spanning over a dozen schools and nearly 1,000 Jewish teens.

Vancouver, British Columbia

The Frankiels’ involvement was during a period of remarkable growth for the Columbus chapter and they will be deeply missed. Rabbi Dovid Kimche of London, England, assumed the position of regional director this August.

Rabbi Dovid & Mrs. Yona Kimche - kimched@ncsy.org

COLUMBUS & NEW ALBANY ROCK REGIONAL SHABBATON This past May, Columbus NCSY dominated their regional convention held at the Crowne Plaza in Dublin, Ohio. With nearly 60 attendees, this regional marked the highest number of Columbus participants at a regional convention in Columbus NCSY history! Among the attendees were 14 TJJers, a record representation for the Chapter, with half of them part of the newly-formed New Albany JSU club.

CHANGE OF GUARD Columbus NCSY bid a tearful goodbye to Rabbi Yaakov and Shira Frankiel at the Spring Regional Convention.

DETROIT NCSY GOES INTERNATIONAL Windsor, Ontario, is just 15 miles away from the heart of Detroit’s Jewish community, but until recently there was virtually no Jewish teen engagement in the area. Detroit NCSY changed this by expanding its programming across the Canadian border. The Detroit chapter board members created a Windsor miniShabbaton experience for teens to recruit for future events. The numbers speak to the initiative’s success: nine public school teens from Windsor attended Spring Regional Convention 2015!

Pittsburgh, PA Rabbi Ari Goldberg - goldberga@ncsy.org

PITTSBURGH SHAVUATON Fifty teens participated in the Shavuot Shabbaton weekend, which included a teen minyan, lunch, Shavuot dinner, all-night learning, a Jr. NCSY learning program, awesome NCSY advisors and much more. The teens enjoyed the program, especially hanging ROSH HASHANAH 2015

out at the Goldberg home, immensely. Pittsburgh NCSY can’t wait for the next Shavuaton!

JSU LEADERS HELP HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS

ISRAEL BOUND This year, Pittsburgh NCSY will be sending 15 teens to Israel through NCSY summer programs and gap year programs.

END-OF-YEAR BBQ AND PASSING OF THE TORCH Forty teens gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of Pittsburgh NCSY during the 2014-2015 year with an end-of-year BBQ. The new chapter board was announced at the event, and the members are excited and energized to take on the new year.

GREATER ATLANTA Rabbi Chaim Neiditch, Regional Director 404.486.8787 // info@ncsyatlanta.com ncsyatlanta.com

ATLANTA TEENS EXPERIENCE THEIR FIRST SHABBAT Teens from 20 high schools attended NCSY’s Winter Regional Convention held at a luxurious resort in North Carolina. For many of the teens, it was their first weekend celebrating Shabbat. Rabbi Chaim Neiditch, executive director and founder of the Jewish Student Union of Atlanta and the regional director of Greater Atlanta NCSY, along with outstanding advisors, utilized the natural beauty of the scenic mountains and the serenity of Shabbat to infuse meaning into the weekend. Shabbat was filled with enlightening educational sessions and culminated in a Havdalah ceremony with powerful stories of inspiration from Rabbi Neiditch. The convention concluded with a day of skiing and a delicious barbecue dinner. Many teens were left amazed at the close bonds they had formed with each other in such a short time.

Alpharetta, GA 400 TEENS HELP KIDS WITH CANCER

JSU teen leaders help Holocaust survivors light yartzeit candles at Atlanta’s Jewish Community Yom HaShoah Memorial Service.

or the fifth year in a row, JSU teen leaders volunteered at Atlanta’s city-wide Yom HaShoah Holocaust Memorial Service. The teens lit yartzeit candles with Holocaust survivors and then placed the candles inside the memorial monument. Teens also distributed programs, arranged the VIP seating, assisted with parking

Over 400 teens at JSU public school clubs took part in the important mitzvah of bikur cholim when they visited children requiring long-term care at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Beforehand, the teens decorated pillowcases by hand to bring to the children,

and escorted the Holocaust survivors across the outdoor terrain to find seating. Many of the teens had never met a Holocaust survivor before, and the opportunity to meet survivors face to face and hear their stories firsthand was deeply moving. The JSU teens received overwhelmingly positive feedback for their respectful and helpful participation.

and heard from Rabbi Chaim Neiditch on why bad things happen to good people. During the discussion, many of the participants shared personal stories of their experiences dealing with sick family members. Nonetheless, the overall mood during the visit was

ATLANTA, GA: NCSYers have a blast skiing at Winter Regional Convention in the mountains of North Carolina.

positive, as all participants were overjoyed to be able to use their creative talents to help bring smiles to the faces of children struggling with illnesses.

Atlanta, GA RABBI NEIDITCH SPEAKS AT PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATIONS For the fifth time, Rabbi Chaim Neiditch was selected to be the guest speaker at Public High School Graduation Baccalaureates. He did double duty as the guest speaker at the Centennial High School Graduation Baccalaureate Ceremony and the Chattahoochee High School Graduation Baccalaureate Ceremony. Rabbi Neiditch advised the graduates on setting life goals, believing in themselves and the importance of treasuring family. Parents were thrilled to have Rabbi Neiditch, a mentor to thousands of local teens, as the guest speaker, and pleased to see JSU play an integral role in their children’s momentous occasion.

350 TEENS LEARN THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THEIR JEWISH NAME Guided by Rabbi Chaim Neiditch, 350 public school teens learned about the divine inspiration their names carry, and how maintaining Jewish names has been a crucial element of the Jewish nation’s survival for millennia. Ensuring that the night’s lessons also carried some added meaning, everyone learned the translation of their Hebrew name and discussed how their name relates to them personally. Many of the teens also shared stories of their family’s Jewish background and the ancestors for whom they are named. Each teen got to take home a bracelet, necklace or keychain to proudly display their Jewish name.

Johns Creek, GA See mini story below.

Marietta, GA See mini story on top right of page 42.

SANDY SPRINGS, GA Teens get ready for Passover while making their own personal seder plates.

Sandy Springs, GA 500 TEENS CELEBRATE PASSOVER IN PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS 500 teens celebrated Passover at JSU clubs in public high schools. Rabbi Chaim Neiditch explained the Seder rituals, the order of the Haggadah’s events, the four cups and the meaning of the matzah and maror. The teens participated in a hands-on activity where they decorated their own Seder plates, and, of course, there was food with a fun “Iron Chef” matzah pizza competition. A vast array of cheeses, sauces, vegetables, fruits and other delectable toppings were on hand to help the teens craft the most creative matzah pizzas this side of the Nile River.

MIDWEST Rabbi Donny Schwartz, Regional Director Rabbi Moshe Isenberg, Executive Director 847.677.6279 // midwest@ncsy.org

MIDWEST NCSY’S ANNUAL BANQUET In March, over 300 people gathered at the beautiful Bryn Mawr Country Club to pay tribute to the Midwest region’s deserving honorees. Fegi Mauer was honored with the Morat Hamesorah Award, and Yosi and Aviva Applebaum were presented with the Hakarat Hatov Award for their many years of dedication to the Midwest Region.

Chicago, IL Levi Zeffren - zeffrenl@ncsy.org See mini story on page 44.

NCSY’S NILES NORTH ISRAEL CLUB NEARLY TRIPLES IN SIZE Niles North High School has had an active Israel club run by JSU for many years, but at times the club had fewer than 15 participants in a school with more than 400 Jewish students. The student board decided to

HUNDREDS OF TEENS CELEBRATE PURIM IN PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS

undreds of teens celebrated Purim — many of them for the first time — at JSU clubs at public high schools across Atlanta! JSU’s Purim events touched upon the four mitzvot of Purim: Megillat Esther, matanot le’evyonim, mishloach manot and seudat Purim. Rabbi Chaim Neiditch told over the story of Purim, placing a special emphasis on the underlying message of the Megilla: God is always working behind the scenes. Participants enjoyed baking hamentashen and then packing them, along with other foods, into mishloach manot baskets that they decorated and distributed to both their friends and the needy.

JSU teens bake hamentashen to celebrate Purim at Atlanta’s public high schools.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

move the club to lunch period, and it quickly grew to hosting between 60 and 80 students on a bi-weekly basis. Former Chicagoland Chapter co-President and Israel Club President Shira Elovic was not only instrumental in the transition, but consistently worked hard to encourage club members to attend NCSY programming. Chicagoland is so proud of these JSUers’ accomplishments.

EVANSTON JSU CLUB CO-SPONSORS HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE WEEK

early 100 Evanston JSUers attended the Evanston Township High School’s Holocaust Remembrance Week to hear Mr. Rudolph Tessler speak about his experience during the Holocaust. The teens were mesmerized by his inspiring words, and his ability to smile and stay strong through all of his hardships. “Mr. Tessler is someone who we all admire and who really illustrates what it means to stand up for what he believes in,” said one participant. The teens asked excellent questions and learned valuable lessons that will likely stay with them all their lives.

Chicago, IL Avigayil Strulowitz - strulowitza@ncsy.org

See page 17 for a story on NCSY 4G.

Deerfield, IL Rabbi Yehuda and Mashi Polstein - yehuda@jewishfamily.exp

JFE CELEBRATES ITS THIRD YEAR WITH OVER 50 STUDENTS In June, NCSY joined Chicago Torah Network and Associated Talmud Torah of Chicago to celebrate the third year of The Jewish Family Experience (JFE) with an awards ceremony and celebration BBQ. JFE, the growing Hebrew School and B’nei Mitzvah program, had over 50 students attend its classes in just its third year! Over the coming year, JFE will be adding an 8th grade class in partnership with Jerusalem U called Step-Up 4 Israel.

Kansas City, KS Rachel Prero - preror@ncsy.org

SHAVUOT TIKKUNATHON KEEPS TEENS UP ALL NIGHT It was a meaningful Shavuot in Kansas City, where 35 teens participated in an all-night learning program at BIAV. The program began with a delicious dinner, followed by learning sessions, a break for Fear Factor, a kumzitz together with shul congregants, and concluded with a country-style breakfast. Many of the teens shared their sentiments about their personal connection with Judaism and the Torah. It was a beautiful holiday experience and a hugely successful event!

SHABBAT SHABANG TAKES KANSAS CITY BY STORM Shabbat Shabang has created a buzz amongst Kansas

Mr. Rudolph Tessler shares his Holocaust story.

City teens. Three times during the year, over 50 teens from JSU clubs and the local Jewish community school are joined by their NCSY advisors to create a special ruach-filled Shabbaton. The evening begins with Carlebach-style services at BIAV, and continues with a delicious Shabbat dinner for the entire group at the home of an NCSYer. Dinner is followed by a lively oneg filled with delicious desserts, singing, socializing with old friends and making new ones. Saturday night completes the experience with fun social outings to places like Skyzone, Emerald City and a comedy club.

attended the bonfire and enjoyed singing, dancing, d’vrei Torah and delicious s’mores.

Memphis, TN

MINNEAPOLIS BREAKS RECORDS, REACHING CLOSE TO 300 TEENS

Shira Nachbar - Shiranachbar@ncsy.org

MEMPHIS BA’OMER

NCSY

CELEBRATES

LAG

This year, Memphis NCSY celebrated Lag Ba’Omer by having a community-wide bonfire hosted by Anshei Sphard Beth-El Emeth Synagogue. Over 100 people

RECORD BREAKING SHABBATON

Memphis is proud to have hosted Midwest’s Early Spring Cnvention in March at Baron Hirsch Synagogue with over 200 NCSYers!

Minneapolis, MN Rabbi Tzvi Kupfer and Bella Smith - kupfert@ncsy.org

Through its various programs including JSU, Torah High, chapter shabbatonim and more, Minneapolis NCSY has ascended to new heights. Looking ahead, Minneapolis NCSY is in the process of adding a parttime employee to the team who will help develop the chapter as a Jewish asset throughout the Twin Cities.

South Bend, IN Akiva Gutnicki - akivagutnicki@gmail.com

SOUTH BEND NCSY’S YOM HA’ATZMAUT BONANZA CELEBRATION FOR ISRAEL’S 67TH YEAR! South Bend NCSY celebrated Yom Ha’Atzmaut with Israeli food and bubble soccer, but the biggest surprise was when the plan to hone the NCSYers’ leadership skills was revealed. Start Up Nation, a book about how Israel has risen to be a capital and technological force, was used as the teens’ guide. In place of the director and advisors planning the programs, fundraisers and even conventions, the teens on the South Bend board and committees took the reins of responsibility. NCSYers felt accomplished for their job well done, and learned from both their successes and failures. The process has helped to mold them into mature, productive and spiritual adults.

St. Louis, MO Rabbi Mike Rovinsky - rovinskym@ncsy.org

ST. LOUIS JSU GALA RAISES $150,000 SOUTH BEND, IN: NCSYers play an intense game of bubble soccer.

250 guests gathered to show their support for St. Louis

JSU programming at the JSU gala in honor of Galia and Milton Movitz and Melanie and Dan Winograd. A special tribute was also made in honor of Sean Rochester, faculty advisor for Parkway Central JSU club. In addition to several inspirational remarks by both current JSUers and alumni, a new JSU marketing video premiered at the event.

TEENS BOUNCE OFF THE WALLS, AND EACH OTHER, PLAYING BUBBLE SOCCER At this year’s Bubble Soccer event, over 100 teens donned giant plastic bubbles and bounced into each other while trying to deftly move a soccer ball around. The truly unique sporting event invited high energy and smiles from all. Bubble soccer events have proven to be a great opportunity for kids to get together for some unique fun and d’vrei Torah.

SHABBATON MAGIC IN WEST ORANGE!

est Orange NCSY rocked out at the first-ever action-packed hometown shabbaton. Planned by a committee of teen board members, this was a Shabbat not to be missed. Over 60 local NCSYers spent an uplifting Shabbat with the West Orange community

filled with delicious food, an exciting oneg, educational programming and an amazing ebbing and Havdala. A Motzei Shabbat movie night rounded out this incredibly successful effort to bring NCSY Shabbaton magic to the West Orange community.

North Shore, IL Rabbi Yehuda and Mashi Polstein - yehuda@ncsy.org

TEENS POWER SHABBATON IN BUFFALO GROVE Over the weekend of May 8-9, North Shore NCSY gathered at its first Chapter Shabbaton in Buffalo Grove. Organized by chapter co-presidents Sarah Comar and Alyssa Wexler, the BG Shabbaton included a delicious lunch with members of the B.A.Y. Shul. It was a beautiful example of successful teen-driven programing. There were several first time NCSYers at the program who were wowed to the max — and they vowed to be back at the next one very soon!

NCSYers get pumped for Shabbat with pre-Shabbat ruach!

Providence, RI

NORTH SHORE GIVES BACK

Devora Weinstock - weinstockd@ncsy.org

This past year, North Shore NCSYers decided to add an element of giving to their programs. Every time they met, teens helped give to others, whether it was passing around a tzedaka box or shopping for a food drive. Recipients of these acts of kindness included ARK, a social service organization, and the Chicago Chesed Fund.

NCSYERS LEAD MUSICAL HAVDALAH FOR PROVIDENCE COMMUNITY

NEW ENGLAND Rabbi Simon Taylor, Regional Director 617.332.6279 // newengland@ncsy.org newengland.ncsy.org

Teens at Beth Sholom in Providence concluded their annual chapter shabbaton with an inspiring and uplifting teen-led musical Havdalah. Over Shabbat, advisors and teens hosted a Friday night dinner and oneg for teens, and joined together for a beautiful community seudat shlishit. After Ma’ariv, they gathered in the social hall to hear Jeremy Crocker and Yedidyah Moise lead Havdalah with the rest of the NCSYers, as always, bringing the ruach!

Stamford, CT

Boston, MA

Devora Weinstock - weinstockd@ncsy.org

Rabbi Simon Taylor - taylors@ncsy.org

JUNIOR NCSY DRAWS STUDENTS FROM ACROSS SOUTHERN CT

TEENS WIN BIG AT BOSTON PURIM PARTY Over 50 teens came out to celebrate Purim together with representatives from schools and communities throughout Greater Boston in an event that partnered NCSY with Beth El-Atereth Israel and B’nei Akiva. Everyone had an awesome time at the festivities, with the game tournament perhaps favored as the evening’s biggest hit — three lucky winners took home the grand prize of Celtics tickets!

Stamford and Westport NCSY kicked off their very first Junior NCSY event in March with a mall scavenger hunt and trip to 16 Handles. The middle school students had a blast running through the mall, finding clues and making creative jingles and advertisements for merchandise they found. They can’t wait to start NCSY in high school!

West Hartford, CT Rabbi Willie Balk - balkw@ncsy.org Moshe Warren - warrenm@ncsy.org

SPRING ROADSHOW BRINGS THE SENIOR CLASS TOGETHER

JSU & NCSY HOST LAG BA’OMER BASH

Roadshows are the place to be, with lots of opportunities for teens to celebrate Shabbat together. This past March’s Roadshow in Boston was dedicated to the seniors across the region. There was lots of grade bonding throughout the weekend, including an action-packed paintballing trip on Saturday night!

In May, 25 students from Hebrew High School of New England (HHNE) and the Jewish Student Union (JSU) at Hall High School, both in West Hartford, joined forces to celebrate Lag Ba’Omer with a party on the HHNE campus. The teens enjoyed pizza and ice cream, played a fierce game of ultimate frisbee and bonded around a fire pit.

NEW JERSEY Rabbi Ethan Katz, Regional Director 201.862.0250 // office@njncsy.com newjersey.ncsy.org

Highland Park, NJ Hadassah & Jeffrey Smulevitz hadassah.smulevitz@gmail.com

HIGHLAND PARK HAPPENINGS: TEENS ENJOY A SPIRITUAL, UPLIFTING AND FUN WEEKEND Highland Park teens came together for a unique and inspirational Shabbat. On Friday night, the NCSYers davened with Congregation Ahavas Achim’s Teen Minyan and then enjoyed a delicious dinner with beautiful singing and meaningful conversations with friends and advisors. NCSYer Reva Lewitter gave a motivational d’var Torah about the origin of the word Ma’an in the Torah and related it to Shabbat. On Shabbos day, NCSYers gathered at the home of Highland Park’s City Directors, Jeff and Hadassah Smulevitz, where they continued to have fun, learn Torah and play games. A motzei Shabbat movie night concluded an amazing Shabbat. Everyone is looking forward to the next one!

Twin Rivers/ Hightstown/ East Windsor, NJ Rabbi Menachem Chinn - rabbichinn@gmail.com

TWIN RIVERS YOUTH LEARN LEADERSHIP SKILLS The teens of Twin Rivers, NJ, are full of creativity, enthusiasm and motivation. One of the great successes of the NCSY Twin Rivers chapter is the chapter Shabbaton. Participants come from all across the region and beyond to plan this successful event. The teens run the show, from sending out invitations, hosting and finding housing, leading prayers, reading from the Torah, serving meals and giving d’vrei Torah. This experience allows the teens to learn leadership ROSH HASHANAH 2015

NEW YORK NCSY’S REGIONAL BOARD ORGANIZED END OF THE YEAR BBQ

he New York NCSY regional board hosted an end-of-year BBQ for 60 teens at North Woodmere Park in Long Island. In addition to the delicious hot dogs, hamburgers and all the fixings, the event included entertainment by a swordswallowing strong man, Adam “Real Man” Rinn. There was plenty of time to reflect on NY NCSY’s amazing year. Special shout-out to Madison Hamada and Sammy Wagman for organizing the event.

Adam “Real Man” Rinn entertaining the crowd.

skills under NCSY’s guidance. Twin Rivers is incredibly proud of the tremendous accomplishments of its NCSYers.

West Orange, NJ Jen and Eric Israeli - israelie@ncsy.org

See mini story on top right of page 45.

NEW YORK Rabbi Yehoshua Kohl — kohly@ncsy.org 516.569.6279 // nyinfo@ncsy.org newyork.ncsy.org

Brooklyn, NY Nechama Kamelhar - kamelharn@ncsy.org Rabbi Moish Zucker - zuckerm@ncsy.org

TWO ISRAELI SOLDIERS IMPACT HUNDREDS OF BROOKLYN AND STATEN ISLAND TEENS This April, over 200 teens from across Brooklyn and Staten Island heard firsthand from two Israeli commanders — Rafi Wein, a paratrooper commander, and Naftali Gross, a ground force commander — about their experiences as IDF soldiers in Israel. The commanders described the fear of war and the trust in Hashem that is essential for survival, and inspired the teens with their dedication to fight for the security of the Jewish homeland.

Manhattan, NY Avi Feder - federa@ncsy.org

MANHATTAN NCSY CLEANS FOR PESACH 46

Before Pesach, Manhattan NCSY took on many different flavors — literally. The Bronx High School of Science JSU reenacted the Ten Plagues in an edible fashion. For example, they found “fish” in red Jello to symbolize the Nile River and tried to eat applesauce while blindfolded to experience the plague of darkness. The makkot (plagues) came alive in a real and rather messy way. Erev Pesach, LaGuardia High School of Music and Art JSU joined with yeshiva day school students for a pre-Pesach scavenger hunt at Lincoln Square Synagogue. A highlight of the search was Chaya Robinson’s discovery of chametz candy hidden in a drawer that was already cleaned for Pesach, demonstrating the need for the traditional search for chametz.

drank four cups of grape Prigat, competed in a findthe-afikoman contest, sang “Chad Gadya” and much more! It was truly an unforgettable highlight of the year for Queens NCSY. Over this past year, Forest Hills JSU co-president Eytan Israelov began learning Gemara for the first time with Queens Director Rabbi Avraham Walkin. Eytan recently completed Masechet Megilla! Additionally, five boys from the RFK JSU club have begun to wear kippot and tzitzit all day in school, inspiring others. Lastly, Queens proudly sent three boys on TJJ this summer.

Monsey, NY

The Thursday night West Hempstead Latte & Learning at Dunkin Donuts started learning “The Six Constant Mitzvot,” which explains Sefer Hachinuch’s six mitzvot that should be on one’s mind every single day. Once a month on Shabbat, the teens get together on a Friday night for “Chillin’ With Cholent” or during Seudah Shlishit for “Bonding With Bagels.” The teens really love the food and Torah combination!

Daniella Eisenman - eisenmand@ncsy.org

MONSEY LEARNING ON SHAVUOT This year, Monsey NCSY held its first-ever Shavuot learning program. NY Regional Director Rabbi Yehoshua Kohl hosted 20 teens for the Yom Tov meal, which was followed by all-night learning at nearby Kehillat New Hempstead. Together with Rabbi Kohl, the teens learned until a sunrise Shacharit! On the second day of Shavuot, a group of NCSYers devoted their Yom Tov afternoon to going to the Yedei Chesed home for developmentally disabled children, where they entertained the residents for several hours. The facility’s staff was blown away by the love and energy exhibited by Monsey NCSY teens.

Queens, NY Rabbi Avrohom Walkin - walkina@ncsy.org

West Hempstead, NY WEST HEMPSTEAD LATTE EXPANDS ITS MENU

Woodmere, NY

Jon Ackerman - ackermanj@ncsy.org

See mini story above.

SOUTHERN Todd Cohn, Executive Director 1-866-887-5788 // southern@ncsy.org southern.ncsy.org

TEENS FROM QUEENS ARE INSPIRED!

Boca Raton, FL

The week before Pesach, Queens NCSY held its third annual Pre-Pesach Chametz Seder. NCSYers enjoyed the Pesach seder experience, NCSY-style, as they

Rabbi Eli Zians - zianse@ncsy.org

BOCA NCSY RUNS INCREDIBLE CHAPTER SHABBATON FOR TEENS

NCSY’s Boca chapter, led by Rabbi Eli Zians, had a huge turnout at its local shabbaton with 100 teens in attendance! A beautifully catered Friday night dinner was served at the Boca Raton Synagogue and was followed by a festive oneg. More teens continued to join as the shabbaton progressed with a special Shabbat teen minyan, lunch, engaging learning sessions and an inspiring ebbing and Havdalah. Teens saw the beauty of Shabbat and learned of its significant role in one’s Jewish life.

Broward County, FL Eli Albert - alberte@ncsy.org

SOUTHERN NCSY CELEBRATES ISRAEL

NCSY’S MIAMI BEACH CHAPTER CONTINUES TO SOAR Over the year, NCSY’s Miami Beach Chapter has shown tremendous growth. In addition to its weekly Latte and Learning sessions and monthly programs focusing on Yomim Tovim and social events, the chapter has recently launched several new, exciting projects. The newest program, GLAM (Girls Learning And More), brings together Zumba fitness and learning in an empowering environment, while the Art of Manliness program engages teen boys in exciting projects on a monthly basis. The JSU club in the Miami Beach chapter draws upwards of 50 teens each week. This upcoming year, the chapter is excited to launch its very own Leadership Incubator program, which will rotate bi-weekly with Latte and Learning. We look forward to further development within the chapter and beyond!

In honor of Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom Hazikaron, Southern NCSY brought together over 50 teens from across South Florida — Miami Beach, Aventura, Boca Raton and Coral Springs — for a special celebration with Israeli salad, hummus, falafel, pita and of course, Israel’s unofficial favorite snack, chocolate spread! The teens learned fun facts about Israel from posters, snapped shots of themselves with their friends at a photo booth, created bleach t-shirts and took home StandWithUs backpacks and literature distributed by the organization. One of the highlights was the playing of a soul-piercing siren that allowed the teens a moment of silence to honor those who have paid for Israel’s freedom with their lives. Following the siren, the teens wrote letters of appreciation to IDF soldiers and heard from Avi Warman, a popular NCSY advisor. Avi spoke about developing a deeper appreciation for Israel and how learning of the country’s history can help ensure its continued survival.

Miami, FL

Miami Beach

Savannah NCSY broke records once again with its three-day Ultimate Shavuos Shabbaton. Many teens stayed up all night learning on Shavuos for the first time, and participated in many activities over the threeday Yom Tov. The Shabbaton ended on a beautiful and

Adir Shimon - shimona@ncsy.org

Avi Warman - Warmana@ncsy.org

YOM HA’ATZMAUT CELEBRATION At this year’s Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration, 50 teens from Greater Miami and Hollywood NCSY came together to celebrate Israel. Teens enjoyed falafel, hummus and pita bread while learning about Israel’s rich history through interactive sessions. Teens also wrote letters to soldiers of the IDF, thanking them for their dedication to ensuring the safety of Israel.

Savannah, GA Rabbi Eli Lob - lobe@ncsy.org

SAVANNAH BREAKS RECORDS ONCE AGAIN

inspiring note with a motzei Shavuot midnight ebbing on the water.

SAVANNAH NCSY HOSTS YACHAD FLORIDA For the first time, Savannah NCSY hosted a Yachad Shabbaton. Many NCSY teens and Yachad members from South Florida enjoyed a magical and heartwarming Shabbat together with the entire Savannah community.

South Miami, FL Daniel Nabatian - daniel@ncsy.org

PURIM BASKETS FOR JAFCO This past Purim, South Miami NCSY brought big smiles to the faces of nearly 50 children of the Jewish Adoption and Foster Care Option facility in Sunrise, Florida. The children received beautiful mishloach manot packages from the members of South Miami NCSY and the Young Israel of Kendall.

South Florida, FL Jason Segelbaum - segelbaumj@ncsy.org

EMTZA NCSY’S FIRST YEAR IS A GREAT SUCCESS Emtza NCSY, formerly known as Jr. NCSY, finished its first year in Southern NCSY with tremendous success, thanks to incredible programming like PBJ and Gaga night, a limo scavenger hunt, top chef night, Jewpardy, and Krav Maga — plus the amazing response from the community. Emtza is truly excited for its second year! Special thanks to the following synagogues for opening their doors to Emtza this year: Young Israel of Kendall, Beth Israel, Temple Moses, Young Israel of Bal Harbour, Skylake Synagogue, Young Israel of Hollywood, Boca Jewish Center, Anshei Chesed and Palm Beach Synagogue.

SOUTHERN: Southern NCSY teens minutes before an exclusive lobbying session on Iran with the National Security Council at the White House during AIPAC’s Policy Conference. ROSH HASHANAH 2015

SOUTHWEST Rabbi Gershon Meisel, Regional Director 972.934.9143 // ncsysw@ncsy.org southwest.ncsy.org

Dallas, TX Rabbi Michel Lomner - michellomner@ncsy.org

DALLAS NCSYERS REDEFINE SHABBAT SHABANG Over 30 Dallas teens participated in an incredible Shabbat experience at the home of their chapter director Rabbi Michel Lomner and his wife, Devora, in May. What began as a handful of teens spending a monthly Shabbat Shabang at Rabbi Lomner’s home developed into a consistent mini Shabbaton, with NCSYers even contributing to the Thursday night cooking with Devora. Chapter presidents worked tirelessly on the themes, decorations, activities and inspiration, and everyone felt like it was their very own Shabbat table.

Houston, TX Rabbi Gershon Meisel - meiselg@ncsy.org

NCSY’S HOUSTON CHAPTER ENJOYS A RENAISSANCE Thanks to the leadership of two impassioned copresidents, Ilana Lashak and Avi Passe, the Houston chapter of NCSY has reinvented itself. These two teens have helped transform Houston from a chapter with little movement in years to a thriving chapter with consistent weekly Latte & Learning events that draw up to 30 teens, along with a strong showing at the recent Southwest Spring Regional in San Antonio. Additionally, Michal Jacknin, Director of Houston JSU, has reinvigorated the public school scene by opening two new clubs in the last few months. Between NCSY and JSU, there are many great things happening in Houston.

San Antonio, TX

Los Angeles, CA

Rabbi Gershon Meisel - meiselg@ncsy.org

Yosef Miller - millertime@ncsy.org

STAR OF TEXAS

LEADERSHIP BOOTCAMP SHABBATON

The Jewish Community of San Antonio has brought its youth constituency to the forefront through the leadership of volunteer chapter staff member Rabbi Avraham Scheinberg, as well as NCSY regional staff member Marcia Schwartz and teen president Ariella Swart. The chapter has made its mark as a real presence in the NCSY world and, when it recently hosted the Southwest Regional, attracted a tremendous number of teens. We can expect more good things to come in the future from NCSY’s San Antonio chapter.

With the help of our own former IDF soldier Zach Morrow, NCSY ran an awesome Leadership Bootcamp on the beaches of Oxnard, CA. Shabbat was infused with spirituality and concluded with a beautiful rooftop ebbing and Havdalah! The teens then took to the beach for an army training simulation, which helped prepare them for the annual West Coast JSU 5K run on Sunday morning. The weekend gave older teens the opportunity to help prepare the next generation of leaders. Overall, the LBC Shabbaton was a great success!

UPSTATE NEW YORK Devora Weinstock, Regional Coordinator 646.459.5175 // weinstockd@ncsy.org upstate.ncsy.org

WELCOMING DEVORA WEINSTOCK It is with tremendous excitement that Upstate NCSY welcomes Devora Weinstock as its new Regional Coordinator. Devora brings with her an incredible history: first, as an NCSYer, next as an advisor, then as the Interim Regional Director of New England NCSY and most recently as the Director of Advisor Development. There is no question that the region will continue to thrive with Devora as its leader, and NCSY looks forward to benefitting from her leadership.

WEST COAST Rina Emerson, Regional Director Rabbi Effie Goldberg, Executive Director 310.229.9000 // westcoastncsy@ncsy.org westcoast.ncsy.org

Las Vegas, NV Yehuda Maryles - marylesy@ncsy.org

LAS VEGAS NCSY EXPANDS Las Vegas NCSY added three more JSU clubs to its growing list of schools throughout the Las Vegas Valley and Henderson, NV. Las Vegas NCSY also formed a JSU Alliance, giving a broader range of JSU teens a chance to join in weekly Latte & Learnings, Friday night dinners and local Shabbatons. JSU and NCSY wish JSU’s three graduating presidents Haddar Ben-Shimon (West Tech), Sammy Lefkowitz (Adelson School) and Allie Weeks (LVA) tremendous success this year at yeshiva and seminary in Israel.

LAS VEGAS NCSY’S SHAVUOT LEARNATHON In an effort to raise Regional Shabbaton scholarship funds, NCSYers found sponsors for each minute of Torah they learned on Shavuot night. The students spearheading the program expected about five teens to participate, with a fundraising goal of $1,500 — but expectations were exceeeded as on Shavuot night,

HONORING FALLEN SOLDIERS

or the fifth year in a row, Seattle NCSY, JSU and Torah High partnered with the Jewish Veterans Association (JVA) to place flags at the graves of Jewish soldiers in cemeteries throughout Seattle before Memorial Day. Participants discovered the graves of Jewish veterans from as far back as the Civil War, and all received copies of the Constitution and Bill of Rights as gifts from the JVA.

Seattle NCSYers place flags at the graves of Jewish veterans.

CHILE NCSY CONTINUES TO GROW

t has been a year full of excitement and surprises for the more than 150 NCSY Chile teens. The year began with an awesome pizza and sushi event, where over 90 students began their scholastic year with powerful words of Torah from Rabbi Israel Lashak. For the first time ever, NCSY Chile had a Shabbat Pro Experience, with an inspiring Kabbalat Shabbat followed by the Shabbat meal and an oneg. The weekend concluded with a trip to Fantasilandia, Santiago’s amusement park.

NCSY Chile celebrates an amazing year of accomplishments.

close to 20 NCSYers and JSU students logged over 3,000 minutes of Torah, raising over $7,000 in regional scholarship funds.

NorCal, CA Rabbi Avia Cohen - cohena@ncsy.org

NEW SESSION HANDBOOK FOR NCSY ADVISORS A new handbook chock full of essential information for NCSY advisors — Latte & Learning — is now available thanks to Molly Werthan and Daniella Engel. The 12-chapter book contains suggestions for activities and discussion questions related to a variety of teencentric topics. Yashar Koach to all the authors for their hard work!

REGIONAL BOARD CREATES #WORDPEACE CAMPAIGN “But what are you supposed to talk about if you don’t talk about other people?” Teens often ask this question, and so the West Coast regional board decided to create #WORDPeace, an educational Facebook campaign to raise awareness of the extremely harmful effects of gossip, rumors and hateful words. The informational campaign ran programming at West Coast Regionals, and every teen who signed up for a 30-minute slot of refraining from speaking gossip was entered into a raffle for a free iPod shuffle. Wristbands with the hashtag “#PutAStopToGossip” were handed out to over 300 teens to make them aware of the power of their words, and West Coast NCSY collectively refrained from gossip for an entire Shabbat! Like the movement on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ ncsywordpeace.

GOOGLE SHIUR FOR NCSYERS THROUGHOUT THE REGION! The purpose of Google Shiur — 30-minute classes taught by a broad range of educators and broadcasted

live on YouTube — is to inspire the future leaders of NCSY and the Jewish people, facilitate leadership development through discussion and invite reflections on Jewish texts and history. When teens participate in the program, they gain exposure to Torah scholars and educators outside of their own chapters, and benefit from diverse perspectives and teaching styles. Google Shiur has been extremely successful, and we are extremely proud to have over 400 views of our Torah videos!

dedication to NCSY. Keynote speakers were Emilia Wolf, a junior from Lake Oswego High School, and Noa Cohen, a sophomore from Riverdale High School. The Jewish Federation received the Community Builder Award for its increased support of high school-level programs, and Barry and Karla Benson and Michael and Allison Sherman received awards for their continued support of NCSY. Portland NCSY looks forward to future banquets celebrating continued success and community involvement.

Phoenix, AZ

Seattle, WA

Shmuli Josephson - shmuli@ncsy.org

Ari Hoffman - thehoffather@gmail.com

CARNIVAL FOR JEWS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

See mini story on page 48.

Last March, the JSU Leadership Board partnered with The Council for Jews with Special Needs (CJSN) to create an exciting and lively Purim carnival for CJSN participants. Over 100 students and community friends volunteered at the event held at the Ina Levine Jewish Community Campus in Scottsdale, AZ. JSU Arizona places a strong emphasis on developing tomorrow’s leaders, and planning for the carnival gave students an invaluable hands-on leadership opportunity. Students were responsible for planning each aspect of the event, from meeting and partnering with community organizations to managing the logistics of arranging vendors and setting up and running creative booths. It was a fun and enriching experience for all.

Portland, OR

Valley, CA Yisrael Katz - ykatz@ncsy.org

LA RUNWAY Valley NCSY hosted its first annual fashion show fundraiser, LA RUNWAY. The program’s focus was to find a balance between modesty and modern fashion. Local designers and boutique stores provided clothing for the models, who ranged in age from five to 25 years old. LA RUNWAY brought together 20 vendors, and event sponsors included Anne Taylor and The Gap. NCSYers were encouraged to take an active role when it came to finding modest attire and making it their own style!

Doovie Jacoby - Doovie@ncsy.org

CHILE

PORTLAND NCSY HOSTS FIRST ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET

Michael Bengio, Regional Director 011.56.99.186.5575 // mbengio@ncsychile.com ncsychile@ncsy.org

This year, Portland NCSY hosted its first annual Awards Banquet to recognize the teens and community members who have grown in their Judaism and

See mini story above.

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

BY RABBI MOSHE BENOVITZ

We deeply apologize if our column in the last issue of Ignite offended anyone. And once we are apologizing in the season of apologies, we also deeply apologize for offering such a flawed expression of contrition. In fact, it wasn’t much of an apology at all. First, I don’t recall much from the last missive that could have been particularly offensive. The confession was mostly for illustrative purposes. But more importantly, the article’s opening sentence was crafted to highlight two common errors we make when we acknowledge a wrong. Rarely is there room for conditional clauses when we sincerely acknowledge mistakes. If part of sincere repentance includes an appreciation of the magnitude of our wrongdoing, then it behooves us to fully own up to our shortcomings without hedging our bet with “ifs” and “buts.” Offensive words and deleterious actions are bad regardless of their impact, and our apologies should reflect that. Further, “if we offended,” subtly shifts responsibility from culprit to victim. Taking offense is presented as a choice or option, and there is a hint of the suggestion that perhaps a better man could have spared us any unpleasantness by looking the other way. The tendency to misspeak in this way is common, and unfortunately not entirely incidental. There is an additional effort to deflect blame that undermines the efficacy of this formulation. Certain sentiments and emotions simply must be expressed in the first person. No group or communal affiliations can do justice to the personal nature of these utterances. “We love you” is much more than a two-letter difference from “I love you.” It’s poor form to overemphasize the “I” in polite conversation or correspondence, and in our case it is always nice when more people take responsibility. But more is not always better. And often, moving from a singular acceptance of blame to a group indictment isn’t moving from one to 50

No matter our position or title, we all impact — in ways big and small— the people around us. two, but from one to none. So it is somewhat surprising to find that this kind of seemingly diminished apology is featured prominently throughout the liturgy of High Holiday confessions. Virtually all of our acknowledgements of guilt, like most of the rest of our prayers, are stated in the plural form. It is never “I who has failed” but “we have sinned,” and “we have betrayed.” Who are these “we,” and what are they doing in my personal moments of reflection and introspection? Some would suggest that, exactly as was posited in the question, this imperfect sentence construction is chosen because of its ease of access. Sin is sufficiently debilitating even without being as exceedingly lonely as it is. It can be helpful (but hopefully not too helpful) to consider that we are not the first, last, or only sinners in God’s world. It should also be noted, particularly by people and organizations devoted to working with the greater population, that our litany of spiritual credits and debits is never limited to our own individual successes and failures. No matter our position or title, we all impact — in ways big and small — the people around us. It would be unwise to ignore the “butterfly effect” that our actions and decisions have on the broader world. Whether by modeling, some type of ripple effect or by offering tacit approval for the un-approvable, we are responsible for far more than our own sins. While the same is unquestionably true in the positive direction, this does establish a strong level of responsibility we share for the

actions of our brothers and sisters. It justifies, in a sobering yet inspiring way, the assertion that we have sinned. But perhaps the simplest explanation relates to our ever-present dual identity, as individuals and as members of a special people. While we must confess to the sins we commit in our private lives, we also must make note of the state of our community and make amends for that as well. We are all responsible, collectively, for the state of our shuls, our schools and our communal organizations. Even if we are not the appointed decision makers of these institutions, we still play a significant role in setting agendas, priorities and standards. Our community will reflect the soul and ambitions of its members. Moreover, the solution to that which ails us is often found on the individual, grassroots level. We all contribute to the character and tone of our sect of Judaism, and we must fully identify with the responsibility it entails. Of course, those who are privileged to hold any kind of official position of leadership should appreciate this reading of Jewish confession even more deeply. We provide an account of our individual misdeeds and triumphs, but we are also charged to identify where the community has soared and where it has stumbled. Future essays can explore specific answers to these questions. But for now, and for this season of growth and awareness, we would be blessed to remember not just ourselves and our small circle of loved ones, but our community at large and our place in it.

Rabbi Moshe Benovitz, an NCSY alumnus, is the managing director of NCSY and the director of NCSY Kollel. He can be reached at benovitzm@ ncsy.org.

THE CHAI SOCIETY SUSTAIN THE FLAME The NCSY Alumni Chai Society is comprised of alumni committed to supporting the incredible Jewish experiences and learning originated in, and because of, NCSY programs. Join the NCSY Alumni Chai Society and help those memories become lasting parts of klal Yisrael. Your pledge and monthly donation will keep the “reality” alive – NCSY is not a dream, it’s a reality for so many that have come before and even more waiting and hoping to become a part of one of the most important initiatives in the history of the American Jewish community. Your support will help enable and sustain their spiritual flame for generations to come.

Visit alumni.ncsy.org/havdalah to donate or learn more.

NCSY is the international youth movement of the Orthodox Union.

THE NCSY BENCHER APP COMING SOON! For dedication opportunities, email friedk@ncsy.org

ROSH HASHANAH 2015

GIVE

KOLLEL

ICE ISRAEL

GIVE WEST

TJJ

AMBASSADORS

JOLT

MICHLELET

EURO ICE

TJJ AP

BILT

JOLT ISRAEL

WHO WILL YOU

BE WEARING NEXT SUMMER? Find the right fit for you at summer.ncsy.org

CAMP MAOR

CAMP SPORTS