St. Louis’ Reform synagogues have joined forces to launch a new initiative to engage teens in Jewish life. Known as the Reform Teen Initiative, the partnership hopes to create new entry points to Jewish life and strengthen existing opportunities for teens. 

“This collaboration will enable us to more effectively reach teens across diverse social networks and different affiliations with opportunities that connect with their personal interests,” said Rabbi Jonah Zinn of Congregation Shaare Emeth, who helped initiate the project. “Working together,” Zinn continued, “will enable us to reach teens on an entirely different scale, helping them to explore the diverse constituencies and programs available to teens in our Jewish community and providing them with opportunities to grow and thrive.”

Initial offerings will include a peer engagement internship program where teens will receive specialized training and ongoing supervision as they work to engage their peers in meaningful and relevant Jewish opportunities.  It will also institute a range of immersive experience, including an alternative break service-learning program and expanded community-wide programming for middle and high school students through NFTY 678 and other avenues. The initiative is funded in part through a grant from the Jewish Federation of St. Louis. 

Stacy Bernstein will serve as the project’s coordinator, working closely with congregational youth professionals, clergy, other synagogue staff and teens to help ensure that the Reform Teen Initiative be successful. Bernstein brings extensive educational and community building experience to the position from her time as a public school teacher, supervisor at Goldman Union Camp Institute (GUCI), and student leader and intern at KU Hillel. 

“Stacy has great enthusiasm, a wealth of experience and great ideas that will be very beneficial to our community. She has hit the ground running and we are in the midst of planning some awesome opportunities,” said Jody Gerth, Temple Israel’s Youth Group Advisor. 

Individuals interested in learning more about the initiative are encouraged to contact their congregational youth professional or Stacy Bernstein at [email protected].