Temple Chai is thrilled to offer spectacular clubs and events to our most special members - our children! We are the only synagogue in the area to offer youth programming for children all the way from pre-school through 12th grade.

Mishpacha is for children aged 2-6 and their families. Together, our families sing new and traditional songs, taste delicious holiday treats, create cherished holiday crafts, visit with puppets, and pray at Shabbat and Havdalah services. Directed by Valerie Gangware, Mishpacha meets on Sunday afternoons several times throughout the year to share festival celebrations through crafts, songs and other fun acitivites.

Chalutzim is for children in 1st and 2nd grades. This program helps kids explore social topics with a Jewish flair. Our Chalutzim students have fun learning and playing together with their Jewish friends. Under the direction of Lisa Orlov, Chalutzim meets on Sunday afternoons several times throughout the year.

Club 34 is for children in the 3rd and 4th grades. The Club introduces our children to ethics and social awareness in a fun, friendly environment. Club 34 goes on amazing outings around town while they learn about Jewish facts. Also directed by Lisa Orlov, Club 34 meets on Thursday evenings thoughout the year.

Ruach! is our children's choir for 2nd - 6th graders. They sing at Family and Holiday services, go on an annual music retreat with other children's choirs at OSRUI, perform at Interfaith services and more. Plus, a CD recording session with Cantor Simon!

Pizzadakah is for our 5th graders. It is a fabulous, fun way for youth to learn about the wonders of mitzvot and tzedaka while having a good time with friends. Highlighted by our annual Sukkot Retreat, Pizzadakah goes on fun outings around the community while also lending a hand to those in need. Under the wings of our Director of Youth and Informal Education, Pizzadakah emphasizes informal education by meeting on several Sunday mornings throughout the year. It is considered an excused absence from Hebrew/religious school to attend a Pizzadakah event.

Jr. Chai Club is for students in 6th through 8th grades. Our activities range from visiting comedy clubs and sports centers to participating in social action projects around town. We also attend a weekend retreat in the winter and help out at the annual Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser. Led by the Director of Youth and Informal Education, Jr. Chai Club meets regularly throughout the year, usually on either Saturday evenings or Sunday afternoons. Watch for special programs with other congregations around the Chicago area!

Sr. Chai Club is for our high school students who are interested in having fun and having a positive effect on their community and themselves. This amazing organization provides a place where teens can hang out with other Jewish teens, work with local charities and participate in fun events around Chicago and beyond, all while learning a bit more about being a Jewish young adult in today's world. The Senior Chai Club has its own elected board that makes decisions on policies, plans events, and keeps the Club going! The Senior Chai Club is part of the North American Federation of Temple Youth and its Chicago Area Region (NFTY CAR - for more information, visit www.nfty.org/car) and we attend all of the regional and national NFTY programs. Advised by the Director of Youth and Informal Education, the Senior Chai Club holds events at least monthly throughout the school year and holds open board meetings the first Tuesday evening of each month.