CEI Youth Group

 W.H.Y. (Westmoreland Hebrew Youth)

 NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth)

 Officers:

 President – Jamie Kaufer

 Vice President  - Zachary Virshup

 Secretary - Lexie Pelchen

 Treasurer - Elaine Werksman

Advisors:

Leslie Nemeth

Richard Virshup

NFTY Philosophy:

Our Sages teach that one’s Jewish identity is built upon a progression of meaningful  and memorable Jewish experiences. These experiences should begin at an early age and continue throughout one’s life.

The URJ Youth Division has the special task of creating some of the significant Jewish experiences that will serve as  part of the foundation of one’s Jewish life. NFTY provides this foundation for our youth.

 WHY activities:

Students in grades 7 through 12 are encouraged to join the youth group at CEI. Junior Youth group activities are for grades 7 & 8 and the Senior Youth group is grades 9-12. Because we are small, we often plan activities together.  A range of activities are planned that serve our youth at all stages of their growth and development.  Local programs include activities such as bowling, snow-tubing, miniature golfing, baking for holidays, attending movies and many other programs. Students also participate in aiding the congregation if needed, planning a dinner and conducting a service, preparing foods for Meals on Wheels and other acts of tzedakah. Regional  programs  take place as well, with students participating in activities that occur in the Pittsburgh area and with the PAR chapter (Pennsylvania Area Region), which extends across the state.  This gives them the opportunity to interact with other  Jewish youths from across the state. Activities such as Leadership Training, Social Action events, Fall, Spring and Winter Kallahs are just a few of the events  available to our young people.

Contact Information:

Membership is $18/year

Leslie Nemeth at nemeth233@verizon.net

Richard Virshup at rvirshup@verizon.net