Basically, we are involved with two different projects.  One is a new JCC in our neighborhood; the other is to be part of an active, local USY/Kadima chapter.  I am sincerely excited about both of these projects, and so I wanted to share with you some of the details.

JCC-- stands for “Jewish Community Center.”  The closest one to us is in Pleasantville.  There are JCC’s all over this country and abroad.   A JCC is typically a “Center” or building where Jewish people can go to all be together and have a great time.  They can have all sorts of amenities like health clubs, swimming pools,   athletic courts, game rooms.  They enjoy many events and are a wonderful and safe place for kids   to hang out and have fun.  The JCC is hoping to plant resources right here in our neck of the woods.    A “Teen Committee” is being formed right now in order to plan the first two events.  Hopefully it will fly off the ground and CJC will be there right from its starting point.   They hope to have their first event this spring.    You will be among the first to know.

USY/Kadima The other great project that I am truly excited about is a joint synagogue USY/Kadima chapter that is also just now in it’s planning stages.  Here, Rose Rowland and I have been working with First Hebrew, Yorktown Jewish Center and Beth Shalom in Mahopac to start up a USY/Kadima chapter.  This would also be a great way to hang out with your friends and be able to meet other Jewish kids.  The “USY” part is for 9-12th grades, and Kadima is for 6-8th.  This is only for Jewish kids who practice in the conservative movement.  The USY kids from all 4 synagogues will do things together like Shabbaton Sharing weekends, mitzvot projects for the environment or the needy,  connecting with Israel and all sorts of wonderful , fun and life- enriching experiences.   The Kadima kids from all four synagogues will do similar age appropriate activities with their group as well.