(Courtesy of Valley Chabad) After missing two years due to the pandemic, Valley Chabad’s Eternal Flame was excited to relaunch its seventh teen fellowship program on Sunday evening, March 6. The program welcomed some 20 public high school teens to hear survivors’ stories and learn about current antisemitism and anti-Israel activity on college campuses around the country. The fellowship will be completed with a weekend trip to Washington, D.C.
The teen fellowship focuses is on three important elements:
1. The Holocaust—Beyond listening to the stories firsthand from the few remaining surviviors, the teens focus on taking the next steps to make our world a better and more purposeful place.
2. Antisemitisitm—Recognizing its long history and the ugly recent resurgence. See how we can respond with pride and purpose.
3. Israel—Prepare the teens as they embark for college campuses—too often fueled by negativity and lies about Israel—and be ready with facts and determination on the importance and centrality of Israel to our people.
The 20 high-school teens will attend sessions on these important topics leading up to the Washington, D.C. experience weekend, where we visit the United States Holucast Memorial Museum, hear from members of power in the government addressing antisemitism and support of Israel. Upon returning, the teens will gather and share the lessons they have learned and commitments they have made in these areas with the community.
The teen fellowship’s goal is to engage young adults to be informed, proud and active members of the Jewish community. The program is a project of Valley Chabad Teen Leadership Initiative in Woodcliff Lake. Thanks to generous support from donors, the entire fellowship, including the full Washington, D.C. weekend experience, is only $250. The fellowship is open to all Jewish high school teens regardless of affiliation or background.
There are a limited number of spots still available for teens to register for this year. For more information about Eternal Flame or to have your teen apply for this year’s program, please visit eternalflame.org/fellowship or call 201.476.0157 or email [email protected].
