Youth and Teens
Temple Sinai strives to provide quality, Jewishly-rich social opportunities for our young congregants. As a congregation affiliated with the Union for Reform Judaism, we are also affiliated with the North American Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY).
We are committed to the following:
- To help strengthen Jewish identity and connections,
- To create an environment that is accepting and open,
- To build strong relationships among our youth and teens, and
- To provide opportunities for leadership development.
SAFETY (Sarasota Area Federation of Exemplary Temple Youth)
8th grade to High school students meet once a month for student-organized and student-led programs. SAFETY members may participate in NFTY-STR events called Kallahs, attend Camp Jenny, and have opportunities to run for board positions and take on leadership roles. Download the SAFETY Constitution here.
Youth group members always join in and help with synagogue and community-wide events. Whether it is Temple Sinai’s Annual Food Festival or Temple Sinai’s Annual Mitzvah Day, youth group members pitch in – but ALWAYS have fun!
Whether it is other gatherings, such as Escape Rooms or going bowling, Temple Sinai’s SAFETY youth groups welcome all Jewish teens in grades 8 – 12. Come check us out!
SAFETY Board - 2023-2024 School Year
President - Lucy Thomas
Communications VP - Ella Collier
Religious & Cultural VP - Alix Leinweber
Social Action VP - Marty Gomien
Song Leader - Jack Fletcher
Historian - Madeline Gersh
Joshua Leinweber has years of experience with all aspects of education. He has taught 4th grade at Temple Sinai’s Religious School and confirmation class. Josh holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Miami and a Master of Educational Leadership degree from Nova Southeastern located in Davie, Florida. Joshua has served as the Assistant Principal at Booker High School. His three children, Noah, Sage and Alix, have gone through Temple Sinai’s religious school and are active in the youth group. His wife, Bethany, serves as Director of Youth Education, Outreach & Engagement at Temple Sinai.
