Kesher for Teens

Kesher  (8^th -12^th grade) 

Kesher ("connection") is a coordinated effort to increase Jewish experiences for our post B'nai Mitzvah teens by incorporating Torah (learning), Avodah (worship) and Gemilut Chasidim (community service) into CBI teen programming. We aim to create a connection between educational, social, and philanthropic opportunities for our teens and further increase their connection to their Judaism and our temple community. We have a variety of activities and programs in which teens can be involved in ways that are meaningful for them. We have BISY, our high school youth group, BISY Jr. for 7th and 8th graders, Confirmation for 10th graders, our Madrichim program, our Shabbat Childcare provider program, and more. Kesher Shul-ins take place three times during the year and are open to all teens enrolled in any teen program. For those not enrolled, there is a fee (see registration form for details). Teens will participate in engaging programs while spending time with Jewish friends enjoying food and fun!

Rosh Hodesh: It’s A Girl Thing
The participants in our "girls only" groups engage in creative ritual, games, arts & crafts, and drama to explore issues such as body image, friendship, relationships, family, competition, and stress and become comfortable with themselves and their Jewish identity. Leslie Oberst, a long-time B'nai Israel teacher and mother of three, leads our older group and Jenny Berg, a long-time B’nai Israel member who currently works at the Capitol, leads our younger group. We offer a group for 6th-7th grade girls and a group for 8th grade girls and older.  Both groups meet once a month and you can register here.

Madrichim: Leaders, Guides and Role Models (8^th-12^th grade)
One of the ways that our post-B'nai Mitzvah teens can demonstrate their commitment to Judaism and to their community is through service. We offer our teens the opportunity to help teachers lead the day-to-day activities of our Religious School and Hebrew school, ensuring they gain valuable leadership and job skill experience in the process. Madrichim can earn community service hours or scholarship credit toward Jewish camp, Israel trips, NFTY events or other Jewish experiences. Click here for the Madrichim application.