Yom Kippur Yizkor Appeal

Today, I’m here as the representative of the Youth Committee, on a day when perhaps Judaism is most hard for children as we turn inward and perhaps get a little more grumpy as caregivers than we might otherwise. 

We all know that we are a community, one united by religion and practice but also by traditions, food, and culture. These aspects are nurtured at home, over kugel or hummus and with nigguns to pass the time between handwashing and motzi, but are also something that we as a community pass on to our youth in the educational programming we deliver. 

As a community, we are raising our children to be inquisitive, to be knowledgeable, and also to be connected to Israel. To this end, we are spending plenty of time together with programs and events, and are bringing kids together for educational sessions run by skilled instructors. 

This year, we are thrilled to partner with Avi and Sigal Biton to bring their Jewish knowledge and Israeli connection to our educational offerings. 

Other people - here in the room, as well as Rabbi and Rabbanit Davis from afar - have continued to be regular and enthusiastic leaders in our youth efforts. We have so much support from folks that help with programming, think of new events, and lend their knowledge and experience to teaching and tutoring all ages of kids, from the tiniest of tots to the high schoolers as they really start to take flight. 

These efforts all come at a programmatic cost. 

Your generous contributions help us to make youth programming continue, so we can collectively ensure that we are able to retain and recruit high quality instructors to our community. 

Your support enables events like our first-ever back to school barbecue to happen, which was a great success. 

Similarly, your support enables the mundane purchase of supplies for youth events, from book-binding tape to keep our tot shabbat siddurim in good working order to staplers, pipe cleaners, and stickers for art supplies. One day, we might even replace the projector! All of these items come at a cost to the youth budget, and for your generosity, we thank you. 

May we all be inscribed and sealed for a year of health, peace, and abundance. G'mar Chatimah Tovah, and may you have an easy and meaningful fast.