Temple Sinai revives youth group with new leader

Adam Cohen

Temple Sinai’s NFTY-based youth group will be led by Adam Cohen, a native New Yorker who is currently a college student in Rhode Island. The youth group will be divided into two sections: Cranston Area Federation of Temple Youth (CRAFTY) Jr. (grades 6-8) and CRAFTY Sr. (grades 9-12). Throughout both sections, the common goal will be for Jewish teens/tweens to celebrate being Jewish together with programs and events they plan and organize themselves. Teens/tweens looking for Jewish experiences that are fun and draw them together in friendship will find a place in CRAFTY. CRAFTY Jr. will incorporate interactive programs that get the students “up and moving.” These programs allow the students to feel engaged with their peers. For example, a chocolate Seder for Passover is a unique experience that will allow the students to have fun while participating in a Jewish ritual. The senior youth group will also be focused on fun youth-driven activities. Cohen says he is looking forward to assisting them with planning high-energy programs that may involve off-site outings.

To form the youth group, Temple Sinai has turned to  the National Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY), which allows students to celebrate their Judaism with peers from all over the United States. During the course of the year, NFTY offers regional events that include interactive services and hands-on programs. The NFTY regional board is driven by teen leaders. Teens plan and organize their activities and events with the help of the adviser. This allows the students to create programs they are interested in. For the senior youth group, the concept of “peer leadership” will be important. Discovering shared interests among the students will allow fun and effective programming. 

To learn more about the Temple Sinai Youth Group, contact Adam Cohen at ACohen01@wildcats.jwu.edu.