Connecting young adults

Growing up in the former Soviet Union, Bertha Rakhunov’s parents were forced to hide their Jewish identities. So, when they fled the FSU and came to the United States where they could freely practice their religion, they promised themselves to instill in their future children a love for Judaism.

“When they came to the States, it was very important to them that we were never afraid to be a Jew and to be who we are,” Bertha said.

Their dream was fulfilled when she and her sister were born, and Bertha dove into Jewish life in her native Boston. While attending college in Rhode Island, Bertha and the handful of other Jewish students helped start their own Hillel chapter.

Almost a decade after graduating, Bertha, an electrical engineer, wanted to explore a new locale and a thriving Jewish community with “big city vibes,” so she relocated to the Windy City. Moving to Chicago less than two months before October 7 only punctuated her desire to connect Jewishly.

Bertha signed up for JUF’s Young Leadership Division’s (YLD) LEADS program, a series that provides Jewish young adults with an introductory exploration of the Jewish community in a social setting. After LEADS, she joined Gesher, the YLD’s training program in volunteer leadership. When YLD was looking for a co-chair of RSJ Committee–serving Russian-speaking Jews–Bertha jumped at the opportunity.

Recently, the committee teamed up with Russian-speaking Moishe House to host a Shabbat and the demand was so high that they needed to turn some away.

As Bertha puts it, “people are craving that sense of community.”

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In 2024, you made it possible to–

-Engage a record 14,000 young adults in programs provided by JUF and its agencies.

-Offer 3,200 young adult programs to ensure continual touchpoints.

-Provide mental health services and wellness programs for 48,000 community members-including many young adults.

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“I’m passionate about hosting because it’s my way of building connections and creating a sense of belonging. Sharing Shabbat dinners has always been about more than just the food-it’s about bringing people together, fostering community, and celebrating traditions in meaningful and creative ways.” 

~Joshua Baim, Chicago OneTable host