Programs & Activities
Programs
Dialogues in Jewish Life brings together small groups of Jewish couples in casual settings to explore and expand their Jewish identities. Groups meet once a month to discuss contemporary Jewish issues and learn about the agencies and services supported through the Jewish United Fund. The program runs for ten consecutive months and culminates with a weekend Retreat at the Perlstein Resort at Camp Chi in Lake Delton, Wisconsin.
LEADS is an eight-week series in which small groups meet once a week. This program provides an introductory exploration into Jewish community and contemporary issues, and allow participants to discuss and debate contemporary Jewish issues with their peers. Participants will expand their knowledge of problems facing the Jewish community locally and abroad, while socializing with peers and forging new friendships. LEADS groups are formed in multiple areas of the city and participants are matched together based on age and location. Current locations exist in the Gold Coast, Lakeview, and Lincoln Park. The cost of the program is $70.
Activities
If you are new to YLD or the Chicago Jewish Community, and don't want to sign up for a program series, come to an event to see what we have to offer. We truly have something for everyone!
YLD/Community Foundation for Jewish Education (CFJE) Events
Through a grant YLD received with CFJE, out of the box programs with an educational twist are offered throughout the year. Past YLD/CFJE programs include: Paintball, Krav Maga, a Bedouin Tent Experience and Candle Making.
Holiday Parties/Happy Hours
Each year, YLD throws large Chanukah and Purim parties and happy hours at Chicago's hottest bars and clubs.
Political and Social Action Events
Political and Social Action events showcase political issues that are of interest to the entire Jewish community. Past programs include discussions on how to get more politically involved, a panel discussion on hate crimes and a one-on-one conversation with a Wall Street Journalist regarding his experience on the front lines in Iraq.
Jewish Life and Learning
Fascinating Rabbis and speakers are featured at these educational sessions during the year. Past topics have been Inter and Inner Faith Relationships, the History of the formation of the State of Israel and The Torah vs. The Koran.
Summer Soiree
With live music, food and drinks, this huge summer summer outreach event is YLD's biggest social program of the year. For the past three years, this event has been held at the Lincoln Park Zoo.
Shared Shabbat Dinners
Shared Shabbat is a large, community-wide and social dinner with fun additions to make the evening more special. Past dinners have included a wine tasting and featured a Friday Night Fiesta with Mexican food.
YLD/Trades, Industries and Professions (TIP) Events
YLD partners with another area of JUF's Campaign Department, TIP, to present these exciting events. Past programs include panel discussions on real estate, medical issues and finance.
Meet the Author Events
These programs are great opportunities to meet well-known authors in intimate settings. Past authors include Stacey Ballis (Inappropriate Men), Josh Braff (The Unthinkable Thoughts of Jacob Green) and Joseph Epstein (Fabulous Small Jews).
Family Events
YLD family events are a great way for young YLD families to gather together in a fun, Jewish environment. Past activities have included a Chanukah Party at the Kohl Children's Museum and a Spring Family Event at Bubbles Academy.
