We strongly believe that children have to enjoy coming to the synagogue — or they simply won’t come. We’ve planned our activities accordingly, and as a result, our young people continue their involvement with CEC well past their Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
Our youth programs are designed to make Jewish life fun, meaningful, and socially engaging for teens. Through NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth) affiliated programming, CEC youth connect with Jewish peers across the Chicago Area Region (CAR).
Our teen leaders (Madrichim) in 11th and 12th grade volunteer in Religious School classrooms on Sunday mornings, serving as Hebrew reading partners, tutors, and role models for younger students. This service earns community service hours and strengthens their own Jewish identity.
CEC’s youth are part of the NFTY Chicago Area Region (CAR) — one of the most vibrant Jewish youth communities in North America. NFTY programs offer social, religious, and social justice opportunities for teens across the Chicago area and beyond.
Contact Rabbi Wainer or Marla Aviva Bentley for information about youth group activities, NFTY events, Madrichim opportunities, and camp scholarships.
