Words From Your Vice President of Jewish Life 
- Akiva Olitzky

Finding Joy on the Journey to Simchat Torah

At the start of Simchat Torah, we close out our Torah reading cycle and complete the Torah. As we do so, this year, I am thinking about Moshe. For almost his entire life, Moshe had to navigate leading an entire people on their trek while enduring their constant complaining. Moshe never completes the journey and passes away after giving one final emotional speech.

Introducing - Study with a Buddy!

The JBC Aspiring Author Award

Young Jewish writers! The Jewish Book Council is now accepting submissions for its Aspiring Author Award, open to Jewish writers ages 13–22. Submit a poem (2 pages max), personal essay, or short fiction piece (1,000 words or less) that reflects aspects of Jewish identity, culture, or experience. Winning entries will be published on PB Daily, and winners will receive an invitation to the JBC network conference and a publication profile. Submissions open October 5th and are due December 4th at 11:59 PM.

Chidush Yisrael Registration Still Open!

Register now! USA | CAN

December 22-30, 2026
Grades 9-12

Back by popular demand — registration is STILL OPEN for USY's Chidush Yisrael trip this December 2026, but spots are limited! The only Israel winter break trip for teens. 🇮🇱✨

This is your chance to:



🌟Walk the land of our ancestors and experience Israel in a way you never have before

🌟Connect with the people, places, and stories that make Israel come alive

🌟Build deep, lasting friendships with fellow USYers from across North America

🌟Return home inspired, transformed, and more connected to your Jewish identity than ever

USY Winter Convention

Register now! USA | CAN

January 15-18, 2027

Grades 8-12

USY is hosting a three-night convention in Atlanta! Mark your calendars for January 15-18, 2027.

Here's what's waiting for you in the ATL:

🏨 Three nights of nonstop Ruach

🕯️ Rockin' Kabbalat Shabbat and Havdalah you'll be singing for weeks

🍽️ Way too many snacks at Oneg

🤝 Social action projects that actually make a difference

🎉 Special programs, surprise guests, and memories you’ll treasure forever

👫 Your USY friends from across North America, all in one place

Whether it's your first convention or your fifth, Winter Convention in Atlanta is shaping up to be one for the books. Three nights means more time to bond, more time to dance, and more time to make this the highlight of your winter.

Spots (and scholarships!) go fast, so don't sleep on this one.

Questions? Learn more here!

See you in Atlanta! 

Ruchot - Advocacy in Washington, D.C.

Register now! USA | CAN

March 5-8, 2027

Grades 9-12

Join USY’s third annual Ruchot delegation in Washington, D.C., where you’ll meet with national legislators, connect with Jewish activists, and learn to lobby for the issues you care about most — from climate justice to reproductive rights, immigration, and more.

No prior experience? No problem. Ruchot (meaning “winds” in Hebrew) is designed for high school students who want to learn, lead, and create real change — guided by Jewish values that call us to act.

 You’ll learn to:

• Organize and advocate for meaningful causes
• Meet elected officials and make your voice heard
• Explore how Judaism guides our response to the world’s biggest challenges

 Where: Washington, D.C.

 When: March 5-8 2027

 Who: High school students ready to lead

USY Summer 2027 Launched!

~$150 off* through the end of November!~

Adventures, friendships, and Jewish experiences that stay with you

Summer 2027 is your chance to travel, explore, connect, and grow with USY.

Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip, meaningful service, or an immersive experience in Israel, USY’s summer programs bring Jewish teens together for adventures designed to create lasting friendships, deepen Jewish connection, and make memories you’ll carry home. 

*Only USY on Wheels and Impact DR are eligible for discounts.

Click the image to learn more!

Nativ is back and better than ever! Starting September 2027, you can spend a full year in Israel with friends, exploring, learning, and growing as a leader in the Conservative/Masorti community.

Visit the USY Merch Store!

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