Teens
Make sure you’re subscribed to the weekly teen newsletter, sent every Thursday, for the latest updates on all IKAR teen programs.
2026–2027
There’s a place for every teen at IKAR. Whether you’re looking to lead, learn, connect, or give back, our 2026–2027 teen programs offer something for every interest and schedule, from paid leadership roles to social justice trips to a standing space just to talk. Explore what’s available below.
Questions about any of our programs? Reach out to Tamara Joseph, Director of Youth Engagement, at [email protected].
Ready to sign up for our programs? Fill out your information here.
Grades 8–12
IKAR’s teen leadership program. Teens start as CITs and grow into paid leadership roles supporting Limudim on Saturdays and/or Tuesdays, with opportunities to lead at High Holy Days, Purim Carnival, and more.
New for 2026–2027 · Grades 8–12, not part of Hadrakha
A new pilot program offering two fellowship paths for teens who want to build leadership skills and give back on Saturdays.
IKAR Climate Action Fellowship (unpaid)
- Work with the IKAR Green Action Committee on environmental justice awareness and action.
- Meets one Saturday a month, plus one additional day depending on the project.
IKAR Preschool Program Fellowship (paid)
- Saturday mornings, 9:30 AM–12:00 PM, working with IKAR’s youngest kids.
- Support childcare and help facilitate a family activity; paid the same as our Madrikhim.
- Two spots available.
Grades 9–12
A year-long fellowship blending Jewish learning, Jewish values, and hands-on social justice action, in partnership with Minyan Tzedek. This year’s theme is environmental justice and social/economic equity, culminating in a trip to Nayarit, Mexico with Tivnu (Presidents’ Day Weekend, February 11–15, 2027) to volunteer on an organic farm and explore how food, land, and community connect. Open to all Jewish teens, not just IKAR members.
Cost is $1,400 plus airfare (~$500), with a $200 deposit to enroll; scholarships and fundraising support are available. Participants who complete the program receive a certificate of completion.
Last Sunday of every month, 5:00–8:00 PM · Dinner included
A safe, confidential, judgment-free space for teens to talk about what’s really going on. Whether it’s current events, teen life, or whatever’s on their mind. No agenda, no pressure, just real conversation and connection.
Follow @ikarbbyo on Instagram!
IKAR’s official BBYO chapter! A teen leadership board plans Shabbat dinners, beach days, bowling nights, movie nights, and more. We have at least two events a month aimed at connecting IKAR teens to a global Jewish teen network.
Tuesdays, 5:00–6:30 PM · $1,400 (scholarship up to $400 available)
Grades 9–12
Earn college credit for Jewish learning. In partnership with American Jewish University’s Jewish Learning Experience, IKAR teens can take Contemporary Halacha: Jewish Ethics, taught by Rabbi Deborah Silver, Rebecca, and Jacob, exploring Jewish ethics.
Three ways for teens to take part in leading ritual and prayer:
Torah Teens: A small group learns to read Torah and lead a portion of the Shabbat service with Hillel; shares their learning on February 27th and May 22nd, 2027.
Davening Teens: Musically inclined teens join the Davening team, singing as part of the prayer experience on February 27th and May 22nd, 2027.
Megillah Reading: Teens learn chapters of the Megillah with Deborah Musher and Rabbi Deborah Silver to read at the IKAR Purim Celebration.
Save the date: February 20th, 2027
A full Shabbat experience dedicated entirely to IKAR teens. More details coming soon!