JYFTI 

Temple Israel’s Junior Youth Groups are designed for our 4^th- 8^th grade students to have fun and get to know each other outside of the classroom, while cultivating a strong sense of self. JYFTI events offer a casual and comfortable atmosphere to explore Jewish identity and develop new and diverse friendships. JYFTI provides opportunities for community involvement and leadership experience.

Membership is free! All students enrolled in the Temple Israel Religious School are automatically members of JYFTI. Event costs vary by activity. You will receive all event information by mail and online.

4^th- 5^th Grade -Hevrah 

Hevrah means a “Circle of Friends.”

Geared to our 4^th and 5^th grade students, Hevrah programs will create meaningful friendships, promote Jewish growth, and help develop social skills. Hevrah is about building connections and Jewish memories. All Hevrah events will be on Sundays, after Religious School.

6^th Grade - Avodah

Avodah means “Work, Prayer, and Service”

This year is based in the 6^th grade Religious School program. EVERY 6^th grade student will take the Avodah Kesher elective during Sunday School, where we will work to develop an Avodah service project. Our goal is to foster strong friendships, leadership skills, and teach Tikkun Olam and community service in preparation for Bar/ Bat Mitzvah. All Avodah events and service projects will be on Sundays, after Religious School.

7^th- 8^th Grades - Mechinah 

Mechinah means “Preparation”

Mechinah focuses on creating meaningful Jewish experiences and positive relationships. Through a student leadership structure, this group enables an easy transition into the more autonomous high school group, YFTI (Youth Federation of Temple Israel).  Mechinah prepares your child to succeed as a teenager in the Jewish community. Mechinah event dates will vary to better accommodate busy schedules.

Questions about Youth Programs?

Contact Us:

• Rabbi Marla Hornsten - JYFTI -  mhornsten@temple-israel.org

• Heather Bershas - JYFTI -  hbershas@temple-israel.org

• Rabbi Joshua L. Bennett - YFTI -  Josh@temple-israel.org

• Zack Chutz - YFTI -  zchutz@temple-israel.org

Since all JYFTI events are staffed with parent volunteers, WE NEED YOU!  If you would like to chaperone an event or are interested in helping plan JYFTI programs, please let us know.

All events are scheduled for 12:30 PM, immediately after Sunday School, unless otherwise noted.