Programs
YLD strengthens the community by offering opportunities for Jewish involvement and we are proud to offer a wide selection of programs including: happy hours, networking events, volunteer opportunities, sports leagues, etc., and, our signature event, YLD’s Big Event Fundraiser. Find your fit below!
See below for more details on YLD programming:
LEADS
A unique series that 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. Groups meet in several areas of the city and are separated by age. All LEADS participants come together following most sessions. The LEADS program runs twice a year-- fall and spring.
Mensches in Motion
An ongoing volunteer program that gives young adults the opportunity to make a difference at a variety of organizations with the same group of peers over a three-month period. Through this six-session program, participants learn about and volunteer at various JUF-supported agencies and see firsthand the impact the JUF has on those in need.
LEARN
An ongoing program presented in partnership by Silverstein Base Hillel and YLD. A cohort of young professionals meets twice per month over dinner with Rabbi Megan and Paige GoldMarche to explore what Judaism has to say about life's big questions while creating a new community as they learn together.
Jewish Engagement
This provides various programming throughout the year based on Jewish traditions and holidays, as well as, materials and content for the Jewish calendar.
Newish and Jewish
Whether you’re new to Chicago or have lived here your whole life, YLD offers a unique set of events that appeal to all different types of people.
Grab coffee with a YLD staff member or board
member who can tell you more about the variety of programs and events we offer.
Email yld@juf.org to set up a meeting.
Business Professional Network (BPN)
This initiative provides an outlet for young professionals from around the city to connect, socialize, and network on a professional level. BPN aims to provide networking opportunities, workshops, and speaker engagements for individuals with a professional prospective.
Gesher
Gesher is a training program in volunteer leadership and advocacy for the Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago (“JUF”). Participants learn and discuss the inner workings of JUF/Federation agencies, allocations process and fundraising strategies; advance their leadership skills through interactive training; and explore areas of future involvement and volunteerism within JUF/Federation.
Phonothons
Want to help be a part of JUF's transformational work, which impacts every aspect of local and global Jewish life, providing human services, creating Jewish experiences and strengthening Jewish community connections? Help make calls and do a mitzvah with other young adults.
YLD Pride
YLD Pride offers a place for LGBTQIA+ Jews in Chicago to connect. As a group of JUF and YLD, we aim to build and support a stronger, more vibrant Jewish LGBTQIA+ young adult community in Chicagoland. Learn More
YLD Community Affairs
This initiative provides a slate of programming and resources about current civic issues and events, concerns addressing our community, and interfaith and interracial programs.
