United Synagogue Youth Chapters in Affiliated Congregations (1993)

WHEREAS, Kadima and United Synagogue Youth, sponsored by THE UNITED SYNAGOGUE OF CONSERVATIVE JUDAISM through its Department of Youth Activities, are the sole synagogue-based youth groups on the Conservative Movement; and

WHEREAS, a solid structure of international and regional support exists within The United Synagogue to promote the development and growth of synagogue youth groups in the Kadima and USY frameworks; and

WHEREAS, an important goal of a synagogue youth group affiliated with or sponsored by an affiliated synagogue should be to educate young people about Conservative Jewish lifestyles, values and theology, and perpetuate the Conservative Movement; and

WHEREAS, a strong youth group experience has been shown by studies to result in higher Jewish commitment and lower rates of intermarriage.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that THE UNITED SYNAGOGUE OF CONSERVATIVE JUDAISM calls upon its affiliated synagogues to:

1. establish and maintain chapters affiliated with USY and Kadima, as preferable to programs not affiliated with the Conservative Movement;
2. strengthen the relationship between Kadima (pre-teen) youth groups and the USY chapter; and
3. budget adequate funding and resources to allow for high quality Kadima and USY chapters, including funding for a youth director, advisors, social, religious, social action, educational, cultural, and athletic programs, and scholarship assistance for regional and international programs.