You are doubtless aware that Young Judaea marked its 100th anniversary on June 10, 2009, and that the anniversary celebrations will continue through the entire forthcoming program year. Recent weeks saw two noteworthy highlights:

•         Over 700 Young Judaea alumni, friends and family came to YJ’s leadership center at Camp Tel Yehudah on Sunday, August 16 to celebrate. The day was filled with memories and renewed friendships, shira (song) and rikud (dance), a tekes (ceremony) outlining the highlights and accomplishments of YJ's 100 years, a special concert by David Broza, a performance by the Tsofim Caravan, and much more.  From the younger generation of Judaeans to alumni who have been a part of YJ for decades, everyone enjoyed being at TY and sharing this once-in-a-lifetime milestone. 

A special portion of the day was dedicated to honoring Mel Reisfield. A leading presence in YJ for more than 50 years, Mel has been a club leader, TY faculty member, Year Course teacher, and much more. Today at age 82, he continues as a valued member of the Year Course faculty. As an educator, leader and mentor, Mel continues to inspire Judaeans to lives dedicated to social responsibility, filled with Jewish traditions and connected to the land of Israel, its language and culture.  A $100,000 campaign was launched to honor Mel and YJ's 100th anniversary.

•         Across the country, 130 people attended a YJ alumni reunion held August 30 at a synagogue in San Francisco. Alumni hugged, kissed, jumped up and down, sang songs, beat YJ camp rhythms, cried, and made their former advisors feel like a million dollars when they thanked them for their past support.  Israeli Consul General Akiva Tor brought greetings from the State of Israel and offered his support.  Liz Alpert, president of Hadassah’s Central Pacific Coast Region, brought greetings from YJ’s sponsor.  Then the alums described their love for the movement, the lifelong friendships they’d made, the life-changing experiences Young Judaea gave them.  Two UC Berkeley students spoke: a young man who was a counselor at this year’s CYJ West, then a young woman who had just returned from Year Course.  Alumni pledged their financial support towards enabling YJ’s continuation in the West.