Over the years more than 11,000 Jewish teenagers from across the former Soviet Union, transformed their connection and sense of belonging to Judaism through active participation in the EnerJew youth movement. Currently, EnerJew, operates within the framework of the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC) in 10 countries and 73 branches * This year, six new branches were established in festive ceremonies.

A new surge of activity, accompanied by a new module of activity and new innovative and engaging program content, characterizes EnerJew’s new season of activity – made possible thanks to the generosity of the Finger Family Foundation – that was launched with great enthusiasm at numerous festive ceremonies, attended by thousands of Jewish teens in all 73 branches of the energetic youth movement.

The sound of the shofar was heard loud and clear, and words of Torah and blessings were delivered by the local community rabbis and Chabad emissaries, who are actively involved throughout the year, guiding and leading the activities.

This year’s theme, led by a professional and skilled team, will revolve around the slogan “Be a Player!”—harnessing the youth’s love for sports to strengthen their connection to Judaism and the Jewish community. As is the tradition, weekly meetings will take place at the movement’s clubs, along with local and regional Shabbatons, leadership seminars, counselor training programs, the Bar and Bat Mitzvah project, trips, and a wide variety of exciting attractions.

Six new branches have been added this year to the youth movement, with prominent new locations in Dnipro of Ukraine, Grodno of Belarus, Vladivostok in Russia, and more. At the opening ceremonies, hundreds of excited teens enthusiastically joined the large EnerJew family, which will now become an integral part of their meaningful connection to vibrant and uplifting Judaism.

“The effect EnerJew has on FSU’s future Jewish generation,” says Rabbi Moshe Rochlin, “is truly miraculous. For over ten years now, the lives of thousands of teenagers have been transformed. They are reclaiming what was stolen from their grandparents and discovering the greatness and joy of their Jewish roots. Thanks to EnerJew’s efforts, they are living Jewish.”