|
Temple Israel of
Natick Youth Programming
What is USY?
Temple Israel of Natick is a
Conservative synagogue and a member of the United Synagogues of
Conservative Judaism (USCJ). Our youth programming falls under the
auspices of United Synagogue Youth (USY), the youth arm of the
USCJ. There are 17 USY regions throughout the United States and
Canada, which make up International USY. Membership in a local USY
chapter entitles your child to participate in programs at the
chapter, regional and international levels. K’vutza is
Temple Israel’s own program for 3rd and 4th
graders. Kadima is the name given to the grouping of
5th and 6th graders.
Junior USY is for 7th and 8th
graders, and Senior USY serves high school age children
(graders 9-12). Kadima, Junior USY and Senior USY groups are
affiliated with USY.
What kinds of programs do K’vutza/Kadima/USY
provide?
Temple Israel K’vutza/Kadima/USY
programming includes social, cultural, religious and educational
events. The USY philosophy of Tikun Olam (repairing the
world) encourages our social action programming.
Who runs Temple Israel’s USY
chapter?
Our synagogue has an active lay
Youth Committee, currently chaired by David Tursky. The
professional youth staff is led by full-time Youth Educator Cyvia
Scharf, who also serves as the K’vutza and Senior USY
advisor. Kadima’s advisor is David Finstein, a past USY
chapter president at Temple Israel. The Junior USY advisor is
Stephanie Schimkowitz.
Why is it important for my
child to join K’vutza/Kadima/USY?
K’vutza, Kadima and
USY open doors for your child to interact with other Jewish young
people in an organized and safe environment. These interactions
among children happen within our chapter, as well as in the larger
community and beyond. These relationships and experiences
strengthen Jewish ties and encourage active involvement in Jewish
life. During the course of the year, staff will ask parents to
assist with transportation and/or chaperone duties, or to help
with chapter events. Your participation in this part of your child’s
life demonstrates the value you place on Jewish community.
What do my dues pay for?
Membership in K’vutza/Kadima/USY
affords your child many opportunities. Paid members can
participate in regional programs and receive the International Kadima/USY
magazine. Portions of the dues are allocated to the regional and
national offices. The remainder helps cover some of the costs of
chapter programs, mailings and transportation. Limited subsidies,
for more costly Senior USY regional and international events, are
made available to Temple Israel members. No child will be denied
membership for financial reasons. Please contact Cyvia Scharf at 508-650-3521x101 if payment of K’vutza/Kadima/USY dues
or program fees constitute a financial hardship.
|
