Congregation Shaarey Zedek will be hosting two Israeli youth ambassadors for the year, starting this Fall. Host Families are wanted! See details below.
 
Dear Congregants,

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I’m thrilled to share some exciting and meaningful news for Congregation Shaarey Zedek and the wider Winnipeg Jewish community.

Beginning this Fall, Congregation Shaarey Zedek will have the honour of welcoming two inspiring young leaders from Israel to our community as part of the Shnat Sherut (Year of Service) program through The Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI). Known as Shinshinim, these remarkable 18-year-olds have chosen to defer their mandatory army service for a year to volunteer in Jewish communities around the world. Their presence is part of a collaboration between JAFI and Congregation Shaarey Zedek, extending its impact to our city in partnership with other local Jewish organizations, including schools, and youth programs.

This exciting initiative reflects Shaarey Zedek’s deep commitment to Israel, Zionism, and to nurturing meaningful connections between our community and the global Jewish people.

The ShinShinim bring with them tremendous energy and enthusiasm, and they will be actively involved in our synagogue and throughout Winnipeg’s Jewish community. Through their involvement in the arts, culture, sports, music, and holiday celebrations, they will bring Israeli culture to life in vibrant and personal ways. Whether they’re leading a song with children, sharing traditions during Shabbat and festivals, or offering their perspectives on life in Israel at schools, they will spark meaningful conversations and connections across all generations.

These exceptional teens are more than educators; they are storytellers, cultural ambassadors, and living bridges between Israel and the Diaspora. While they come to teach and inspire, they are equally eager to learn from us, about Jewish life outside of Israel, our community’s values, and what unites us as one global people.

The success of the ShinShinim program relies not only on their passion, but also on the generosity of local families. Each Shinshin will stay with two different host families over the course of their year, for approximately 4–5 months each. These hosting experiences are incredibly impactful. Hosting a Shinshin involves opening your heart and home, providing a private bedroom, daily meals, and a warm, supportive environment. We encourage families in our community to consider taking part in this unique opportunity. 

Feel like you have a bit of extra room in your heart and home? Please contact Tali Millo at tali@szwinnipeg.ca or 204-287-5132. We welcome all those who would consider hosting a shaliach to reach out, but please note that we will not be able to accept every offer. We will work to place the ShinShinim in an environment that is best suited for their specific needs.

We look forward to introducing our ShinShinim to you soon, and to the many ways they will enrich the life of our congregation and community. Together, let’s give them the warm Shaarey Zedek and Winnipeg welcome they deserve!

With gratitude, 

Fanny Levy
President
president@szwinnipeg.ca