Jewish International Connection
Good News Planet visits the Jewish Connection International.
Moving to a new country can be intimidating and the frantic pace of New York makes the move even more challenging. People come to our great city looking for a career move, all the social life that New York has to offer, perhaps that perfect soul mate and of course participation in what the larges and most vibrant Diaspora Jewish Community in the world has to offer. Jewish International Connection (JICNY) is a hub for internationals from all over the world. It is a place to meet, find out about what is going on in the City and connect to the one thing that unites us from all corners of the world – our Jewish heritage.
Jewish International Connection
In December 2000 we had our first Shabbat dinner for Australians and South Africans living in the New York. From this event our community has grown to over 5,000 people over the past six years. With an emphasis on high-quality programming and wide scale affiliation, JICNY is a United Nations of sorts, with people from all over the world gathering on a regular basis for social, cultural and religious events.
Our programs include a highly successful weekly Torah class, led by Steve Eisenberg, on the Upper West Side, followed by a unique second class, held in multiple languages which typically include English, Spanish, French and Russian. Other events include lectures, tours of the Lower East Side, picnics, Shabattons and retreats. We host a film club that raises money each month for a different charity. We also plan an annual learning mission to Israel that has enjoyed great success.
Our monthly Shabbat dinners feature guest speakers from around the world. We have less formal Shabbat meals and social events throughout the month, as well. Founder, Steve Eisenberg sets hundreds of young professionals up with welcoming places to have the Shabbat meal every year. Over the years founders, Gavin and Jodi Samuels have had over 6000 people attend meals in their home. We recognize the interest and value of the Jewish international community in New York through all of our successes and for this reason we have created the JICNY Networking Group in order to expand on what we have previously been able to offer in the way of networking.
Living in a foreign country that is so diverse and independent, it is comforting to know that there is a place you can go where you will always be welcome; you will be able to explore your heritage and spirituality; and you will be supported by the community that surrounds you.
