We are excited to launch Shorashim, ACI’s new B’nai Mitzvah Program developed and led by Rabbi Noa Rubin!
Shorashim (שורשים) means “roots” in Hebrew is a beautiful reflection of what the Jewish journey is all about. Just like the unique branches of a tree share roots, we are all connected by shared history, traditions, and community, even as each of us grows and blossoms. Shorashim embraces the many ways we connect with our multifaceted tradition to discover our identities, and find our place and voice in the Jewish community. The program celebrates that all learners have their own story, strengths, questions, and experiences, and that there is no single path to becoming a B’nai Mitzvah.
This program, funded by a grant from UJA in partnership with Matan (https://mataninc.org/) a Jewish disability inclusion organization, is open to all interested individuals ages 10 and up, with ACI family membership. Shorashim brings together Jewish tradition and innovation in an inclusive, supportive, and fun learning environment. With excellent tutors, dedicated mentors, and a welcoming community of peers, learners of all abilities and Jewish backgrounds will explore Jewish identity, meaning, and literacy.
Shorashim is about so much more than tutoring. Through social gatherings, educational programs, and meaningful opportunities to connect, students will build relationships with one another and develop a lasting connection to Jewish community and practice, each according to a tailored curriculum. The program celebrates the fun and joy of rigorous learning and preparation as part of a cohort, while emphasizing family involvement, personal growth, and the many ways one can reach this milestone.
We look forward to growing this program together and creating a space where every student can put down roots, find their own path, and flourish as part of our Jewish community.
What’s next?
We will have two upcoming kick off sessions with Rabbi Noa Rubin at ACI on Tuesday, November 10th at 5:45 pm and Sunday, November 22nd at 2 pm, where we’ll share more about the program and invite your questions, ideas, and feedback. The meeting will be geared toward families planning a B’nai Mitzvah in the next two years, but everyone is welcome! Note the sessions will have the same content offered on two different dates. Please RSVP to Lizanne ([email protected]) so that we can make sure there are enough snacks and refreshments.
Interested in learning more? Please fill out this form. If you have friends or family in the area who may be interested but are not yet ACI members, please feel free to share our non-member interest form with them. Feel free to email [email protected] if you have any questions.
We can’t wait to grow together with you!
