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YLD Programs

JUF’s Young Leadership Division aims to build a better Jewish community in Chicago, Israel and beyond through diverse programs for young adults aged 22–39. To get on the waitlist for any of our programs, email [email protected].

Featured Events

Four young adults smiling holding wine glasses and beer bottles in a bar networking event including two men and two women.

Blue and White Bar Night

Celebrate Israel’s Independence Day at one of YLD’s biggest parties of the year! The evening will feature Israeli Snacks, dancing, and more to ring in Israel’s 78th birthday on Thursday, April 23.

Register now
Two shabbat candles, one prayer book and one kiddush cup on display.

Passover Seders

Join YLD in partnership with Silverstein Base Chicago, OneTable, synagogues and more for Passover Seders on April 1 and April 2.

Register now
A group of Young Leadership Division participants at a cubs game in the bleachers.

YLD x YAD Cubs Game

Join us on May 19 at at the Cubs Game! Tailgate starts at 6pm at Gallagher Way.

Register now
A group of young adults wearing green t shirts posing as a dodgeball team.

Sports Leagues

YLD offers seasonal sports leagues for young Jewish adults, providing an opportunity to come together and engage in friendly competition.

Learn more
See all YLD Events

Jewish Chicago 101: LEADS

This unique series attracts hundreds of young adults each year by offering an introductory exploration of the Chicago Jewish community and contemporary issues in a relaxed, social setting. Small groups organized by age and location meet in several areas of the city and all LEADS participants come together following most sessions. The LEADS program runs twice a year—fall and spring. 

Registration is now closed. Come back in the fall!

Two people sitting cross legged with a pencil and paper taking notes.

Leadership, Development, Training, and Education Series: Gesher

This program offers participants a unique opportunity to advance their leadership skills, develop relationships with fellow community leaders, explore the inner workings and operations of JUF, make a difference in the Chicago Jewish community and map out their own Jewish leadership journey.

Email [email protected] to join the interest list.

A group of people sitting on couches and chairs in a circle having a discussion with a rabbi in his house.

Tackle life’s tricky questions in small-group sessions: LEARN 

An ongoing program presented in partnership by Silverstein Base Chicago and YLD. A cohort of young professionals meets twice per month over dinner with a Rabbinic couple to explore what Judaism has to say about life’s big questions while creating a new community as they learn together.

Stay tuned for the Summer 2026 LEARN Program.

36 under 36 group photo with all award winners smiling in business clothes in two rows each wearing a large blue ribbon on their chest.

36 Under 36

Check out this year’s 12th annual Double Chai in the Chi: Chicago’s Jewish 36 Under 36 list of talented, difference-making Jewish young adults in our city, presented by YLD and Jewish Chicago: The JUF Magazine.

Nominations for 36 Under 36 2026 opening April 13!

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