Come join us for exciting virtual programming all summer long! #MyUSYfiSummer is open to all Jewish youth entering 5th grade through the Class of 2020.

Juggling 101

Have you ever wanted to learn how to juggle, but could never find the time? Well, fortunately for us, we have come into an abundance of time and juggling could be in your future! Yes, even over Zoom, I can guarantee that after our session (and some practicing on your own) you, too, will be able to juggle! To participate, all you will need, besides a tiny bit of patience, are three spherical objects — obviously, juggling balls are preferable, but tennis balls, handballs, rolled-up T-shirts, or pairs of socks can also be wonderfully creative home remedies. While the majority of the session will be practice-based, we will also be discussing our lives — how juggling could serve as a metaphor for the many commitments that we balance each and every day. Juggling, while at the surface, is a challenging hobby to master, it is also a meditative art-form through which we can find balance in a complex, dynamic existence.

For 5th grade through the Class of 2020 – bring positivity, patience, and enthusiasm to learn something new! See you there!

Program Date(s):
Thursday July 9 and July 23rd, 3-4 PM

IsraAID

Israel’s leading humanitarian aid organization – IsraAID – invites you to an interactive workshop that puts teens in the driver’s seat during a unique disaster response simulation. Participants will experience the intensity of being an IsraAID first responder as they are faced with a deluge of unfolding challenges in a dynamic, ever-changing environment. Students will gain an overview of the sector-specific interventions that IsraAID uses in the field, including in the mental health, water, and medical fields; and the varied roles first responders assume. For teens in 7th grade through the Class of 2020 who interested in international development, Israeli contributions to the world, tikun olam, and/or disaster response, we invite you to engage with these themes firsthand through this stimulating simulation.

Program Date(s):
Tuesday, July 21, 3-4 PM

Meditation and Mindfulness: Changing our Internal State

During this crazy time, it can be incredibly rewarding to develop a sense of inner peace, even when the outside world is a little crazy! Through this 6-Week program, we will introduce and discuss various types of meditation and then work through a process based on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)–a scientifically proven approach. Through various interactive activities, we will attempt to learn more about ourselves, explore different traditions, and cultivate a sense of inner stillness and joy.

Program Date(s):
Mondays (July 6, 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10) from 1-2 PM

Introduction to Digital Illustration

Laying out the fundamental elements of digital illustration. From hardware to software, research to final drawings, and the techniques to get you there. I will cover the basic illustration approach that I take with most of my pieces from start to finish. I will discuss the positives and negatives of social media in illustration. I will also cover careers as a digital illustrator. This program will be for teens in grades 8-Class of 2020. Click here for a list of supplies!

Program Date(s):
Wednesdays - July 8, 15, 22, 29 - 4-5 PM

Micrography

Micrography, or microcalligraphy, is an ancient Jewish art form in which passages and words are formed into figurative designs and shapes, such as animals, people, and symbols, etc. We will be exploring the basics of this practice, and creating our own pieces based upon chosen biblical passages. No prior experience necessary! Teens in grades 5-Class of 2020 are invited to participate.

Program Date(s):
Wednesdays - July 29, August 5th, August 12th - 4-5 PM

Watercolor Painting

In this program, we will be exploring different watercolor painting techniques, with a focus on painting nature and landscape. If the weather is nice, we could even paint outside! Click here for a list of supplies. No prior experience necessary! Teens in grades 5-Class of 2020 are all invited to participate!

Program Date(s):
Mondays - July 6, 13, 20 - 2-3 PM

Ulpan Ivrit

Always wanted to know how to communicate with Israelis in the way they communicate – speaking Hebrew? Join us on this weekly Ulpan Ivrit Chug, where you will learn the most useful Hebrew that you need, in a fun and interactive way, from a Young Professional Israeli Hebrew teacher. Basics of reading are required, as well as committing to all six classes.

Program Date(s):
Wednesdays (July 8, 15, 22, 29, August 5, 12) 1-2 PM

Learning to Read Torah

Always wanted to get more confidant with your Torah reading? This is your opportunity to learn and practice in the best way possible! We will take it from the basics all the way to the less known/advanced tropes, in a safe and fun environment for all. Every week will get more advanced, so beginners should join from the first session, and if you feel more comfortable with the basics, you can join us from Session 3.

Program Date(s):
Thursdays - July 23rd, July 30th, August 6th - 1-2 PM

Strengths in Leadership

For USYers in 8th grade through the Class of 2020 – come find your top five strengths and how to utilize them in leadership positions and situations! There will be two sessions and you must attend both in order to participate.

Program Date(s):
Wednesday, July 15 and 22, 2-3 PM

Ethics in Sports

Let’s look at everyday issues brought up in sports through an ethical lens. Is it okay to kneel during the National Anthem? Who let the Houston Astros cheat? Do other MLB teams cheat and just not get caught? Why can’t I dance to my heart’s content in the end zone? Now that we know about brain injuries caused by football, can I still be a fan? Do sports teams really help cities and the public or is it just one more business making the rich, richer?

Program Date(s):
Tuesdays July 14th, 21st, 28th, August 4th 1-2 PM