Youth Groups

SHORASHIM

(Birth-preschool)

Shorashim is open to all community members, whether or not they are members of Beth Shalom Congregation. We host various programs, such as Zoom into Shabbat and sign language. Post-COVID, we will resume our other Shabbat programming, including Tot Shabbat, generally held on the 4th Saturday of the month at Beth Shalom, and Shorashim In-Home Shabbat Dinners, which are held at a family’s house on the 2nd Friday of the month. We offer tot services for other holidays including the High Holidays and Purim as well as other programs throughout the year. Shorashim is a great way to meet other Jewish families and members of the Beth Shalom community before your child begins religious school!

Beth Shalom Young Families Group logo

Mischpacha

(K-5th Grade)

Our Mishpacha group brings children in grades K – 5 together to strengthen both the individual and familial connection to Judaism and our community here at Beth Shalom. We welcome both older and younger siblings to join us. These programs are generally held once a month after religious school on Sundays and during some holidays. Previous events have included an indoor snow day, bowling, and a chocolate Seder. During non-COVID times, we host one overnight program every year for upper-elementary school students.

Kadima

(5th-8th Grade)

Kadima meets once a month on Sunday afternoons for social programming. During non-COVID times, we host one overnight program a year, which includes a trip to places like ShadowLand or SkyZone. Kadima is affiliated with United Synagogue Youth, so members are eligible to attend Regional Kadima events such as Kadima Kallah (overnight Shabbat trips) and Kings Dominion Day once those programs resume. Kadima membership is $35 and includes regional membership dues. You can register for Kadima through religious school registration or by contacting the synagogue office. 8th graders will have the option to attend Kadima and USY programs.

USY

(9th-12th Grade)

High school students at Beth Shalom participate in our USY youth group. Programs include aspects of Israel education, social action, and social programs, creating fun and interesting experiences for everyone involved. Most recently, USY donated home-made apple pies and helped engage our elementary school families at the Chocolate Seder. USY members have the option of participating in regional and international events and conventions and amazing summer trips around North America, Europe and Israel. USY welcomes 8th grade members in the spring semester. The USY yearly membership is $45, which includes regional and international dues. You can register for USY through Hebrew High registration or by contacting the synagogue office.

In addition to USY programs, our high schoolers also have the opportunity to participate in the Howard County Teen Interfaith Initiative (HoCo TII). Teens from various faith backgrounds in Columbia meet to discuss what their faith believes in, answer the “big” questions, and participate in social action projects. This group meets once a month at different religious institutions.

Follow Youth Programming for Updates:
For Kadima & USY, contact: Lily Glushakow-Smith