Youth Department

Step into the vibrant and dynamic world of the OZ Youth Department, where a warm welcome awaits you. Immerse yourself in a community that thrives on our shared Jewish values and connection as you and your family embark on a journey filled with engaging Shabbat morning groups, thrilling events, and abundant, exciting,  chesed opportunities. Our dedicated youth directors are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where you can participate in various enriching activities and forge lasting friendships. Come and be a part of something extraordinary! Experience the joy of belonging in the OZ community, the thrill of exciting events, and the fulfillment of personal growth. Join us at the OZ Youth Department, where every moment is a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Here is a sampling of what we offer:

• Weekly Shabbat Morning Youth Groups
• Weekly Shabbat Afternoon Meetup in the Park
• Seasonal and Holiday Events
• Ongoing Teen Programming
• Parent-Child Learning
• Occasional Family Shabbat Dinner
• Youth Tutoring
• And More!

Yehuda, originally from West Rogers Park, Chicago, moved to NYC in December 2022, bringing with him his enthusiasm for experiential Jewish learning. After attending Arie Crown Hebrew Day School and Fasman Yeshiva in Chicago, he spent two years at Yeshivat Shaalvim in Israel before obtaining his bachelors degree in Management Information Systems from Yeshiva University. In the past, he has served as a counselor at NCSY, Camp Simcha, and Camp Yagilu. Yehuda spent eight years volunteering as the National Coordinator for Shabbat Tent. Professionally, Yehuda works in the field of Information Technology as a project manager. As a former mashgiach, eruv-technician and high holiday chazzan, Yehuda is enthusiastic to bring his diverse skill-set to the OZ Community!

Suzanne, a Scarsdale, NY native and a UWS resident for nine years, works full time as a dedicated pediatric social worker at Mount Sinai Hospital. As a young student, she attended Westchester Day School, Ramaz Upper School, and Midreshet Harova. She received her Bachelors degree in Social Work at New York University and her Masters degree in Social Work from Columbia University. She served as a group leader at the Young Israel of Scarsdale, a camp counselor at Moshava IO and the President of Shalhevet (the Orthodox Jewish Student group at NYU’s Hillel). She is passionate about Jewish community building and her expertise in counseling and childhood development brings a unique perspective to the Youth Director role.

Yehuda and Suzanne’s shared ability to connect with young individuals, build community, and develop programming will help them as they strive to create a warm and welcoming Shabbat youth experience at OZ. They are eager to facilitate engaging, educational, and meaningful experiences for the OZ youth. Please take a moment to introduce yourselves – they are here to connect, engage, and support you and your family on your Jewish journey.