Even though the location changes, the connection back to the institution remains.

There are many opportunities for social connection at synagogue or on the Max & Mae Simon Jewish Community Campus. Some organizations are now branching out into the community at-large for common interests and a variety of experiences.

Discover the unique opportunities to get out in the community through NEXTGen, Chabad’s Young Jewish Professionals (YJP) group, Congregation Beth-El Zedeck (BEZ), and Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation’s (IHC) circles.

Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation
Fourteen different IHC Circles (small groups) have been formed by congregants around interests, geography, life stage, or profession.

Patti Freeman Dorson says IHC’s engagement initiatives are intentional opportunities to connect people to the synagogue, Jewish life, the community, and each other. A few years ago, the synagogue adopted a strategic plan that centered engagement as a priority. Dorson proposed offering small groups which sparked the formation of IHC Circles.

“There is something for everyone and if you don’t resonate with something that already exists, bring us the idea and we will help you launch a new circle,” she said.

Existing circles include a board game circle, an LGBTQ+ circle, a euchre circle, community volunteers, one for young
families, hiking and more! You don’t have to be Jewish or a member of IHC to join a circle.

Paula Reiss is the founder of the Newish to Jewish circle, having completed the process of converting to Judaism. She created this circle in late 2022 to support others who might be traveling a similar journey or want to learn more about Judaism. The group has met to learn about Chanukah, gone to Shapiros Deli for a meal, and prepared and participated together in a Passover Seder.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn about a holiday in a safe space with the freedom to do it your own way with those walking the same or similar journey,” Reiss said. “This is an opportunity to experience the inclusiveness of Judaism. Everyone is welcome.”

Visit https://ihcindy.org/ihc-circles/ to learn more about IHC Circles.

Congregation Beth-El Zedeck
Rabbi Hal Schevitz is developing programming at the synagogue and off campus for people to find social groups
through synagogue again.

“In previous generations, people found their friends through synagogue and they socialized through Jewish communal experiences,” he said. “Many now find social groups through work or similar interests, on the internet, or through childhood and college friends.”

To bring the connection back to BEZ, Schevitz leads Torah on Tap and Cocktail Judaism groups. They both encourage socialization with Jewish context for a more meaningful experience. Torah on Tap is held at a bar and is geared toward young adults in their 20s and 30s. Cocktail Judaism is much of the same for those in their 40s and 50s. He says the goal is to connect people with the Rabbi and synagogue while creating a space and group that speaks directly to them.

“We provide a point of connection and purpose with fellow Jews no matter the location,” he said. “We live in a great
community and we should take advantage of those great places. People want diversity in activity and we provide a
variety of experiences.”

BEZ is currently going through a leadership transition and will soon look at additional ways to engage with its members and the community.

Visit https://bez613.org/ for more information on the synagogue and its programming.

Chabad Young Jewish Professionals
Dovid and Chana Grossbaum champion the young adult programming for Chabad. Dovid is from Indianapolis, and left for schooling and other experiences. Chana is from London. The two met in New York and as newlyweds moved back to Indianapolis. Now, they lead shul, summer camp, young adult programs (YJP) and family programs.

YJP has been their main focus and the program immediately picked up steam.

“From very humble beginnings, YJP now has hundreds of young Jews attending events regularly,” Dovid said. “These events can range from intimate Torah classes and Kiddush clubs to massive Purim and Chanukah parties.”

This spring, YJP purchased a space in Downtown Indianapolis to expand their event offerings. The Downtown location allows them to meet Jews where they are and provide a lounge for young Jews to grab a coffee or use as a workspace.

A regular ‘Ess & Bentch’ (lunch and learn) offers Jews of all ages to enjoy a Kosher lunch while delving into the Torah’s wisdom.

The Grossbaum’s have dedicated their life to providing opportunities to celebrate Judaism in a genuine and dynamic
way, which was inspired by the Rebbe Menachem Mendel Schneerson of blessed memory's teachings.

Visit www.youngjewishindianapolis.com/ to learn more about YJP.

Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis’ NEXTGen
NEXTGen offers programs to engage people from their early 20s through age 40. A committee holds monthly meetings to plan upcoming opportunities. They host Happy Hours, community service programs, and other social events throughout Indianapolis. NextGen connects young people to the Jewish community through collaborations with other community organizations and leadership development programs. The group also encourages these young leaders to support community efforts through the Federation’s annual campaign.

“The Federation has almost always had an effort that engages younger members of the Jewish community,” said Margo Fox, Senior Director of Engagement at the Federation. “It is important that we continue to engage the next generation in Federation to develop continued leadership and connection.”

Fox says it is important that NEXTGen offers engagement opportunities through the Federation lens because as one of the central organizations in the Jewish community, Federation is an entry point to community involvement, philanthropic engagement, and leadership.

Visit www.jewishindianapolis.org/whatwe-do/nextgen for more information.