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Erie USY and Kadima's Sukkah Building, September 30, 2001
USY stands for United Synagogue Youth and is the high school youth group affiliated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Kids in USY are involved in three levels: first, on a chapter level, second, on a regional level, and third, on an international level. USY chapters are found all over the United States and Canada and USY even has a European and Israeli sister organization called No'ar Masorti. The chapter board plans programs for its members, revolved around the three building blocks of Conservative Judaism and USY---t'fillah (prayer), social action and tikun olam (fixing the world), and Israel awareness. Throughout the year there are a number of regional events in host cities within the region. Erie USY is a member of Central Region USY (CRUSY), which is comprised of Western Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Michigan, and Indiana. Internationally, there is one large convention that takes place during winter vacation, and the main publications are distributed at this level. USY is a great organization for high school kids to meet other Jewish teens from across the United States while growing spiritually.
Kadima is the middle school youth group, mostly run by selected USY board members in charge of the Kadima program. The Hebrew word "kadima" means "forward," as these students are moving forward in their lives spiritually and learning what USY is all about. Most Kadima programs are held at the chapter level, but most regions have an annual Kadima convention for members.
Created by Lianna Levine