Community Corner

Join ATID Hadassah for the exciting story of their own Irene Lewis, who was refused permission to leave the USSR for 5 years before successfully making it out. Find out why Irene began to embrace her identity as she was being punished for being Jewish. Learn how she entered the US with her son, her suitcase, and $300 and became one of the top one percent of women earners, 10 years later.

As teens head back to school, many are feeling anxious—not just about everyday adolescence, but also rising antisemitism, political division, and events in Israel and Gaza. How can parents support them?

Join Moving Traditions on September 11 for a free Raising Up Teens webinar with clinical psychologist Dr. Yoni Schwab, Assistant Head of School at Shefa School, facilitated by Rabbi Daniel Brenner.

Topics include:

• Helping teens cope with stress and anxiety

• Building resilience to manage challenges

• Using Jewish wisdom and community support

• Recognizing when professional help is needed

A teen panel will also share their experiences and advice for adults supporting Jewish youth. Participants will leave with actionable strategies and resources for teens.

University Synagogue is partnering with Jewish Family & Children's Service to offer a hands-on way to help refugee families in our community.

Join a Support Team
Volunteer 3–4 hours a week to assist with:

• Rides, tutoring & forms
• Cultural support & mentoring

Especially needed now as agencies face budget cuts.

Get Started
Join or form a team (5–8 people), attend an info session, complete brief training and a background check.

Learn More
To learn more about this impactful opportunity and to express your interest, please contact Kaitlyn Siegel, Volunteer & Engagement Coordinator, at ksiegel@jfcslobc.org or call 714.881.8835 Ext. 2238 or visit https://jfcslboc.org/refugee/support-teams/.

This program is partially funded by the Jewish Community Foundation Orange County.

Join a powerful 8-day journey blending cultural exploration and community service. Connect with Cuba's vibrant Jewish community, support local programs, and enjoy unforgettable experiences. Brought to you by Escapes Unlimited.

Highlights include:

• Meet Cuban Jewish leaders and learn about Jewish life in Cuba
• Deliver aid to senior centers and engage in hands-on service
• Celebrate Shabbat at Beth Shalom Synagogue and Patronato
• Tour historic Havana, visit the Jewish Cemetery, and explore Trinidad

Upcoming Trip Dates:

• Dec 4–12, 2025
• Jan 22–29, 2026
• Feb 19–26, 2026

Price includes luxury lodging, most meals, tours, and visa. Please note: Space is limited to 22 participants.

Be part of this meaningful mitzvah experience. Travel with heart, give back, and discover the resilience of Jewish life in Cuba.

In response to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the New Israel Fund (NIF) has launched a global campaign to provide urgent relief. Partnering with trusted organizations—including World Central Kitchen, Clean Shelter, and Standing Together—NIF is helping to deliver food, clean water, shelter, and protection for aid convoys.

While NIF typically funds work within Israel, this exceptional campaign reflects a commitment to Jewish values of compassion, justice, and the sanctity of human life. Learn more or contribute at nif.org.

As you may be aware, ICE has begun deportation efforts in Santa Ana. While educational institutions have not yet been directly targeted, El Sol Science and Arts Academy—an organization with a long and meaningful partnership with University Synagogue—is concerned that schools may soon be affected.

In response, Marshall Kaplan, a longtime advisor to El Sol and a member of our congregation, has assembled a group of pro bono attorneys with immigration law experience to assist El Sol families and students who are living in fear. However, additional legal support is urgently needed.

Your support can make a real difference in protecting vulnerable members of our extended community.

In the latest episode of his podcast First Generation American, University Synagogue member Jeff Toporek sits down with fellow member Bonita Jaros for a rich and engaging conversation about her Ladino heritage. Bonita shares memories of growing up in a vibrant Ladino-speaking community in New York and reflects on the language, culture, and traditions that helped shape her identity.

You can listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.

Have a first-generation American story to share? Reach out to Jeff to get involved.

Stay tuned for upcoming episodes featuring Rabbi George and more—coming soon!