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. All youth programs are open to both Temple Chai members and non-members. For more information please contact, Laura Perpinyal, Director of Congregational Learning.
Shalom Yeladim is a series of programs for children 6 and under and their families. It is a great way to introduce Judaism into their lives, participating in fun and educational activities as a family. Tot Shabbat and the Shalom Yeladim Tot Retreat. Click here to learn more.
Mishpach is Growing Up! This larger than life youth group is for the whole family! Bubbies, zaydies, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, members and non-members. Mishpach events are geared for families with children of ALL ages. You can't be too young or too old to get into the fun. Produced and directed by Valerie Gangware.
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 Felicia Ross, 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. Club 34 meets on Saturday evenings, 5:30-7:30 p.m. thoughout the year under the direction of Felicia Ross.
Ruach! is our children's choir for 2nd - 6th graders. Directed by Mrs. Gail Simon, Ruach sings 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! Download the 2011-2012 Ruach! Choir Schedule .
Pizzadakah is for our 5th graders. It is a fabulous, fun way for youth to learn about the wonders of mitzvot and tzedakah while having a good time with friends. Highlighted by our annual Sukkot Retreat, With director, Adrienne Kaplan, Pizzadakah goes on fun outings around the community while also lending a hand to those in need. Pizzadakah emphasizes informal education and may meet on Sunday mornings throughout the year. It is considered an excused absence from Hebrew/religious school to attend a Pizzadakah event when it occurs during school hours.
Jr. TeChY 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 Youth Fundraising Dinner. Led by Adrienne Kaplan, Jr. TeChy meets regularly throughout the year, usually on either Saturday evenings or Sunday afternoons. Watch for special programs with other congregations around the Chicago area!
TeChY is for our high school students who are interested in having fun and having a positive effect on their community and themselves. Led by Marni Roisman, TeChY Advisor, 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. TeChY has its own elected board that makes decisions on policies, plans events, and keeps the Club going! TeChY 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. TeChY holds events at least monthly throughout the school year and holds open board meetings the first Tuesday evening of each month.
