CTeen Becomes Shluchim’s Fast Favorite

CTeen’s meteoric rise in popularity is the stuff of legend. The Brooklyn-based organization, with chapters across the country, has become the fastest growing Jewish teen club. Registration for the upcoming year is up by more than fifty percent.

“Shluchim spoke; we listened,” says Rabbi Mendel Perlstein, CTeen’s director. “We’ve implemented numerous changes and made drastic improvements to our program based on the feedback received from Shluchim.”

Among the changes are the highly flexible program guides, with Shluchim being able to choose from monthly, bi monthly or weekly programs, in addition to being offered in depth packages for teens already more knowledgeable about Judaism. Says Rabbi Perlstein, “Whatever your Chabad House style, we’ve worked hard to ensure there is a package that suits your needs.”

Rabbi Hillel Scop’s Chabad of Mill Valley, CA, is one of dozens of new CTeen chapters. “Joining CTeen was a no-brainer,” he says. “Their resources are phenomenal.” Having worked with youth and teens for more than ten years, Scop says CTeen provides ready-made materials and programs he would never have time to create on his own.

Rabbi Chaim Ozer Metal of Los Vegas concurs. “I’m often caught up in arranging so many other programs. Having the material prepared in advance with access to fun and meaningful Shabbatons and events allows me the time and freedom to properly manage many more Chabad activities.”

Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch says the global network is a key component to the club’s success. “It’s imperative for the youngsters to feel connected to their peers in other areas of the country. Their interaction with fellow Jewish teens at the regional events is both beautiful to see and vital in strengthening the wider Jewish community.”

CTeen’s famous Shabbatons earn high acclaim from Shluchim and teenagers alike. As Rabbi Metal attests, “My teens are eagerly awaiting the next national Shabbaton.” The get-togethers help develop a sense of belonging and community, which are especially important for kids who live in areas with minimal Jewish activity.

“There are no such teen clubs in my area,” says Scop. “Parents have already expressed excitement before our first session has even begun.” Being part of a Bay Area community where tremendous emphasis is placed on social activism, Scop says CTeen strike a perfect balance:

“Teens are able to enjoy and learn about their Judaism, while at the same time be part of communal projects. This unique blend is appealing to both teens and parents alike, and has already helped draw people to our Chabad House.”

CTeen – The Chabad Teen Network – is a division of Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch’s Suite 302, dedicated to building and growing a worldwide Jewish teen network with roots in every Chabad House. CTeen delivers systemized programming, flexible solutions, and professional resources, to help Shluchim establish a thriving teen club in their community. The power of Jewish youth is unleashed in the vast and powerful CTeen network. Tap into the energy at www.cteen.com.