On Shabbat, July 26-27, a wave of excitement swept through Tel Aviv Yafo as 50 students from various JLIC summer programs gathered for a transformative experience: the Yavneh Summer Shabbaton. This vibrant gathering was more than just a weekend retreat; it was a celebration of community, leadership, and Jewish learning. Co-led by passionate Yavneh student fellows and dedicated staff, the shabbaton was a massive success, blending fun, inspiration, and education into an unforgettable experience.
The goal of the shabbaton was clear: to strengthen the year-round Yavneh network, engage current fellows, and recruit new ones. Through thoughtfully planned sessions led by the fellows, with the invaluable support of educators Tal Attia, Jeremy Tibbetts, Sarah Smart, and Miriam Pinchas Gold, participants delved deep into discussions and activities that highlighted the essence of Yavneh.
Bailey Spitz, a student from the University of Maryland, participant in the SIJ Harova program, and a Yavneh National Board Co-President captured the spirit of the weekend perfectly:
“On the Yavneh TLV shabbaton, we had the opportunity to reflect on our experiences on SIJ so far. We explored our community desires and goals, and discussed how we can turn them into opportunities for growth on our campuses with the help of Yavneh. The weekend also developed our relationships with our network as we met students from all JLIC Summer programs within the intentional context of Yavneh content.”
The impact of the shabbaton was felt not only by the participants but also by the Yavneh staff. Current fellows expressed how the experience built on their passion for Yavneh, leaving them eager to return to their campuses to make an impact in their communities and develop their leadership skills. The weekend’s activities and discussions helped many students truly understand the essence of Yavneh, filling them with inspiration and excitement to apply for the fellowship.
This shabbaton was not just a gathering; it was a moment of growth and connection, a catalyst for the future leaders of the Jewish community. As the students departed, they carried with them new friendships, strengthened commitments, and a renewed sense of purpose. The Yavneh Summer Shabbaton in Tel Aviv was a reminder of the power of community and the potential for growth when young leaders come together with a shared vision.
Reach out to any of our Directors to learn more about and to support JLIC and our programming.
Related Posts
JLIC Yavneh Partners with JNF-USA’s Alternative Break Trip to Israel
Empowering Jewish Student Leaders: A Recap of Yavneh’s Spring 2024 Regional Shabbaton
Nurturing Community and Spirituality: The JLIC West Talmud Group Journey
From Campus to Courtroom: JLIC Empowers Jewish Law School Students