What’s happening now...
The number of organizations seeking to engage young Jewish adults has proliferated in recent years, and these organizations want to welcome and include people with disabilities in their events and activities. To participate, use the registration link which will take you to the organization's website.
AND don't forget to contact TOV to request a Peer. A Peer is a similarly aged community member with inclusion training who is available to attend the event with you and provide whatever level of support is needed. For more information, contact Jodi Newmark, JodiNewmark@juf.org.
Upcoming Events
YLD LEARN: Living the Jewish Calendar
Wednesday, January 21, 2026 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
How does the Jewish holiday cycle work? What are the animating ideas, themes, and visions of its practice? What is the basic grammar of a Jewish celebration, and how do we carry it out if we are not yet experts? Together, we will explore these questions and more, with snacks to nosh on as we learn. Each weekly session will explore a different Jewish holiday. All are welcome, whether you've learned Jewish text before or not! Address and details provided the evening before the program. Base Logan Square is proudly a part of Silverstein Base Chicago.
This event is for young adults ages 22-39. If you are not 22-39 years old, please email YLD@juf.org to learn about opportunities that may be right for you!
Location:
Location to be Provided
Location to be Provided
Chicago, IL 60647
Contact:
Gordon Brode
GordonBrode@juf.org
312-357-4502
Web Page
RSJ Whirlyball
Thursday, January 22, 2026 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Join YLD’s Russian Speaking Jews for Whirlyball! This game combines bumper cars with lacrosse and hockey. Each player drives a bumper car and uses a scoop to shoot a plastic ball at a target. Cost includes one hour of Whirlyball games (10 minutes each), a drink ticket and heavy hors d'oeuvres.
This event is for young adults ages 22-39. If you are not 22-39 years old, please email YLD@juf.org to learn about opportunities that may be right for you!
Location:
Chicago Whirly, Inc.
1825 W Webster Ave
Chicago, IL 60614
Contact:
Gordon Brode
gordonbrode@juf.org
312-357-4502
Register Online
MLK Shabbat Dinner, Discussion, & Service
Friday, January 23, 2026 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Join YLD, TOV, and Repair the World Chicago for a meaningful MLK Shabbat as we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with an evening of reflection, community, and action. Together, we’ll welcome Shabbat with a festive meal, explore what it means to stand up for justice in our communities, and discuss how we can build a more equitable world.
Following dinner, we'll dive into an interactive discussion on how Jewish values inspire us to pursue justice, support marginalized communities, and act in solidarity with our neighbors. To further our commitment to those in need, we’ll end the night by packing hygiene kits for The Night Ministry. Address will be provided before the event.
This event is for young adults ages 22-39. If you are not 22-39 years old, please email YLD@juf.org to learn about opportunities that may be right for you!
To request a Peer*, other assistance, or accommodations, please contact yld@juf.org.
Location:
Location to be Provided
Contact:
Gordon Brode
GordoneBrode@juf.org
312-357-4735
Register Online
Grandparents of Children with Disabilities
Wednesday, January 28, 2026 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Join JCFS Chicago Clinical Psychology intern Rachel Weisbecker and Occupational Therapist Ari Buslovich for a discussion about grandparenting a child who is neurodivergent or has a developmental delay or disability. Learn about the different types of professionals who may be supporting your family; receive tips and strategies that can be useful when giving care, and gain meaningful connections and helpful resources to support your grandparent journey.
This event is free and open to the public. Continuing education credits are available for QIDP's.
*Session may be recorded
You will receive a Zoom link to participate via email the day prior to the session.
For help with registration, and for any accommodations, please contact
Kathryn Dougherty.
Location:
Online
Zoom, IL 60606
Contact:
Kathryn Dougherty
KathrynDougherty@JCFS.org
773-765-3158
Register Online
YLD Pride Shabbat
Friday, January 30, 2026 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Join YLD Pride for a Shabbat dinner at the home of Rav Sarah Mulhern and Rav William Friedman. Bring in Shabbat with yummy food and great company!
This event is for young adults ages 22-39. If you are not 22-39 years old, please email YLD@juf.org to learn about opportunities that may be right for you!
COST: $18
Location:
Silverstein Base Lincoln Park
Address to be Provided before Event
Chicago, IL 60606
Contact:
Izzy Goldman
izzygoldman@juf.org
312-357-4553
Register Online
30s Happy Hour
Thursday, February 19, 2026 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Join YLD for a 30s Happy Hour with drinks, conversation, and a chance to meet other Jewish young adults in their 30s!
This event is for young adults who are 30-39. If you are not 30-39, please email YLD@juf.org to learn about opportunities that may be right for you!
Location:
Olive Black
3032 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
Contact:
Nicole Kovitz
NicoleKovitz@juf.org
312-357-4539
Register Online
First Friends
Monday, March 16, 2026 9:30 AM - Monday, May 18, 2026 10:30 AM
Welcome to First Friends, Keshet’s program for families of infants with disabilities or complex medical needs. Through gentle play, music and sensory experiences, babies enjoy meaningful early learning while parents connect with others who truly understand. Guided by caring experts, First Friends offers more than a class—it’s a supportive, judgment-free community built on trust and shared experiences.
Location:
Keshet
799 Central Ave Ste 250
Highland Park, IL 60035
Contact:
jBaby Chicago
jbabychicago@juf.org
312-357-4907
Web Page Register Online
