Living in a global society, where approximately 0.227% of the population is Jewish, isn't exactly easy. USY is here to help teenagers in high school create a special connection to Judaism and Israel while having oodles and oodles of fun. USY makes it a little bit easier, by providing teens with the tools and knowledge needed to be successful while maintaining their Jewish identity.
In USY, it is guaranteed that one can make friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. This is done through weekly meetings, regional conventions, and international programs. We sing, we dance, we play, we pray, we learn, and we have fun. So much fun, we barely even notice that we're learning about Israel, or studying tanach. So much fun, that people count down the days until the next convention. So much fun, it probably should be illegal.Sometimes I wonder what my life would be like if I hadn't joined USY. The problem with that thought is that I can NOT imagine that. As in, it is impossible. That's how affected I have been by USY. Personally, I know that through the three years I have spent so far in USY, I am able to say that being Jewish is one of my most highly valued characteristics. I know that I am a stronger person overall, because of USY, and it has helped me be the person I am today.
Learn about your roots, meet new people, and be who you want to be. Come find out what all the noise is about and discover yourself in the powerful magic that is USY.
B'Shalom
Mor Bass
Communications Vice President 2009-2010
Some history from Andy Friedson (Tzafon President '02-'03)...
Fifty years ago was a
very uncertain time for Jewish people.
Memories of the Shoah were burning freshly; and, as the young leaders
of the day looked around, they saw similar danger lurking in the peace
and quiet of America. If enemies seeking to destroy the Jewish people
by violence did not succeed, our own sense of safety would do it for
them. Jewish youth were assimilating and the tradition that so many
died for in Europe and that more would fight for in Israel was in
mortal danger in its peaceful American existence.
Recognizing this
danger, youth leaders in the conservative
movement began to organize, and at the First International Convention
in New York, USY was officially chartered. The convention took on a
ominous tone. Yes, the delegates were there to have fun, but there was
also a greater task at hand: the drafting of the mission of the youth
group. It was there that USY became what it is: a youth group dedicated
to providing warm Jewish communities to youngsters who may not have the
same chance to interact with their peers otherwise.
These chapter
communities became and remain the backbone of
USY. USY looked to provide Jewish Education to those who wish to become
more in touch with their religious heritage, and it answered the call
when Jews worldwide needed support in Israel and in the Former Soviet
Union. Furthermore USY took on a position of social awareness, focusing
much attention to Social Action and the fund-raising program that later
became known as Tikkun Olam.
Now, Fifty some years
later the goal remains the same. USY is
dedicated to providing its members with a warm place away from the
secular world, where they can be who they are and enjoy their heritage.
It's your community, please take advantage and be a part of it.
Andy Friedson
Tzafon President 2002-2003