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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].

Featured Events

Overview of a dinner table filled with plates and hands passing food.

Party of 8

Let YLD schedule a reservation at a restaurant for you and seven others on Thursday, May 28!

Register now
Two challah loaves on a challah plate being blessed with two hands.

RSJ Shabbat and Cocktails

Join Silverstein Base Chicago and YLD’s Russian Speaking Jews for Shabbat dinner and cocktails at Base Logan Square on May 29.

Register now
A young woman doing zumba wearing a white tank top with a high ponytail.

Zumba

Come meet new people while you dance and get moving. No experience needed‍—just bring your energy and get ready for a fun workout on Tuesday, June 2!

Register now
People clinking glasses together in cheers.

Summer Kickoff Bash

Celebrate summertime in Chicago with YLD and Silverstein Base Chicago at Base Logan Square on June 18.

Register now
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.

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.