YLD Programs
JUF 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].
Upcoming Event:
New to Chicago? Join us for our Newish and Jewish Happy Hour on September 17. Whether you’re new to the city or just looking for a fun night out, it’s the perfect opportunity to meet and mingle with young adults. Register now!
Featured Events
WYLD
YLD’s most epic summer party is back on August 27! Enjoy a night of music, drinks and connecting with other Jewish young adults in Chicago.
YLD Sundae Stroll
Join YLD for a sundae stroll on August 30! Enjoy a walk with other Jewish young adults and end the walk with a sweet treat from Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams.
Register now
Happy Hour
Meet new people at YLD’s upcoming happy hours:
Class of 2026 Happy Hour Thursday, September 10
LEADS
LEADS brings together young Jewish adults for eight engaging sessions of meaningful conversations, authentic connections, and personal exploration of Jewish life and identity. This program begins October 1.
36 Under 36 Honorees are Here!
Take a look at this year’s 15th annual Double Chai in the Chi: Chicago’s Jewish 36 Under 36 list, celebrating talented and impactful Jewish young adults in our city, presented by YLD and Jewish Chicago: The JUF Magazine.
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.
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.
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.
Connect with Us
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