Winter break was a time of relaxation and inspiration for dedicated Emet Outreach students. Over the span of a month, the Women’s Division led three memorable trips to Miami and California. These visits were not simply vacations, but each featured a full schedule of motivational speakers, impactful learning, scenic excursions, comfortable accommodations, an uplifting Shabbos, and the opportunity for friendship.
“The Miami and California trips are really impactful, and so many of our students have expressed that their experiences were turning points for their spiritual growth,” said Ms. Adina Fendel, Women’s Director. “Students are able to disconnect from their everyday environment and immerse themselves in living like a Torah Jew. They see that while they may have associated Torah with restrictions, they can actually still have a great time within the realm of Torah u’mitzvos.” In addition to Ms. Fendel, students were accompanied on the various trips by Emet mentors Sara Blatt, Chava Zaretsky, Nayomi Matayev, Sharona Katayev, Chanie Lindenbaum, Tzippy Max, as well as other dedicated volunteers.
While all three trips this season were energizing experiences, they were each geared to students at different stages of learning. The first foray was to Miami in late December. This trip was for 18 beginner students who are part of the Emet Leaders Fellowship, which provides an introduction to Judaism. “Each day, we heard from interesting speakers who shared their own amazing stories and divrei Torah. There was never a dull moment because Emet filled the time with fun activities like spending the afternoon on a yacht, segwaying, biking on the boardwalk, karaoke, and going out for breakfasts and suppers,” Ilana Masheyev explained. “When Shabbos rolled around, we got to sit back, unwind, and reflect on our impactful week. All the girls became close, and it felt like we knew each other forever.”
California followed in early January for 12 intermediate girls who have completed at least two Fellowships. Estey Babayev shared, “This trip was necessary for my soul, to disconnect from my day-to-day life and just be around the best chevrah! From the daily lectures at Olami West with Rabbi Quinn, Rabbi Denbo, and Sarah Pachter, to our delightful and generous Shabbos hosts, it was just wonderful vibes all around. I got to know so many amazing souls and hang out with and be uplifted by the best staff. The beautiful Jewish community in LA was so amazing to experience.”
A second visit to Miami rounded out the list for 20 students who are part of the more advanced Stepping Higher program. Michele Katanova said, “The Miami trip impacted me in many ways, but what really made it memorable was the people. I got to connect deeply with both my fellow participants and madrichos. It was so refreshing to be with girls who shared similar values and goals. The best part of the trip was Shabbos and the conversations and connections that ensued.”
Danielle Abraham summed it up: “Apart from all the amazing activities and learning, to me the most memorable part of the trip was the relationships I built with the incredible girls I had the privilege of getting to know. The trip was meaningful because it enabled us to go outside of our comfort zones by instilling growth, ruach, and overall presence of mind as it pertains to Judaism. The second I came home, my only thought was, When’s the next Emet trip?”
