CATE+Meeting+December+2009

Anne W - we happen to have more NFTY involvement this year than we have in a long time. I link this to the number of seniors that have been camp kids a long time, were in Avodah last year and will be Machon this year. A large group of connected kids. Makes a huge difference. Judy S - It is the link to the reform movement, keeping us informed about various opportunities from the RAC to HUC weekends to camp. Otherwise, there isn’t much of a connection. Judi B- We are still in the process of building our Youth Program. Rabbi Sommer is doing a GREAT job in getting our teens involved in NIFTY. The parents who grew up in NIFTY are very pleased. Alissa-We have a very active youth group due to our youth director Helen and the current group of seniors that have grown with the group since freshman year and each year getting more students involved. Anne W - too many other outside activities; not sure they will like it; parents don't see it as a priority Judy S - Two factors come to mind. First of all, our own TYG has a full schedule of activities during the year, and when we add other opportunities around the synagogue (mahonicking, other volunteering) on top of our students already being over-committed, there’s little chance for them to add yet another thing to their plate. For many of them, being a part of our synagogue’s TYG is the result of many years of connection to different people and events around NSCI and it’s those personal relationships that keeps them linked in. Second, there is the perception that NFTY-CAR is largely an extension of OSRUI. The people who have been to NFTY events from NSCI have been almost entirely camp kids who want to continue those bonds, and NFTY is an excellent way to do that during the year. We’ve sent several students to NFTY events over the years, and those who weren’t connected to camp felt largely unwelcomed. Judi B-Like everyone else, our kids are too busy other outsidde interests. David Sandmel - we have a decent youth group, but the connection to NFTY is weak. Would love to strengthen that connection. (May not be able to be at the meeting). Alissa- Very busy lives that keep them from connecting to their temple life. VME: I agree with what has been said, kids today are overprogrammed and don't have much free time. Also living on the North Shore, they have plenty of exposure to other Jewish kids.
 * Beth Avner will be coming to our December meeting to talk about NFTY. She asked that we answer the following questions in preparation for the meeting. Please type your answers below.**
 * · ** **What is the best thing that NFTY is doing for your congregation right now?**
 * · ** **What is the biggest obstacle for the teens in your congregation when it comes to joining NFTY?**

Anne W - perhaps come visit with the advisors/board - onsite visit Judy S - Nothing in particular comes to mind. We’re certainly always happy to have visitors and to connect with other synagogues, but again, the factors in the first answer come into play. Judi B.-We follow the lead of Rabbi Phyllis Sommer who I believe is still on the Board. Alissa- I will ask Helen VME: I think that a calendar at least 2 years out would help us publicize events as well as be able to attend or staff some events. I know more PR may not reach all the kids but it may reach more.
 * · How can I/NFTY/Regional Board better support the youth group at your synagogue?**