Junior Chai
OVERVIEW
Our Junior Chai program is one of our longest-standing programs. Students in 6th-8th grades meet regularly in a relaxed atmosphere where they individually work toward being called to the Torah and becoming B Mitzvah. Not every B Mitzvah service looks the same, so neither will their journey. After their B Mitzvah, students integrate into the JCo community through their talents, passions, and interests.
Planning a B Mitzvah can be a daunting task, but fortunately at JCo we have families who have been there and are willing to share their wisdom. JCo has a Facebook Group dedicated to the topic of B Mitzvahs and a Google Sheet with numerous tabs, such as, Venues, Food, Photos/Videos, Judaica, Rentals, Music, Invitations, etc. JCo families are happy to share their knowledge and experience with those just getting started.
For access to the Facebook page. please contact Ilene or Debbie at JCoYouthPrograms@gmail.com
The Rabbi will work with each family to make it the experience that they want it to be. Some of our students choose to lead the entire service chanting each prayer and Torah portion while many others focus on a particular project or service that they present during the ceremony. And while some students prepare a d’rash or a speech, others present their Torah portion in more creative ways. At a recent B Mitzvah, Noa, our Rabbi’s daughter, chanted her Joseph portion to the tune of the Broadway Musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Some of our B Mitzvah students choose to share their special day with the whole congregation during a traditional Saturday morning service at JCo, others opt for a more private service with just their invited guests - either way, it is a special experience celebrating at our Jewish home away from home. Others have chosen to have their service and/or celebrations at one of the many amazing locations available to us here in San Diego. Wherever you decide to host your Mitzvah, the spirit of our community will follow, making your child's experience one you will treasure and remember forever.
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COST
JCo Membership includes both Junior Chai, Hebrew Lab and LOMED programs.
Additional for B Mitzvah preparation there is a $500 charge per child. This covers the cost of Gabi’s time in preparation for the service, the theme and tutoring. Additional $200 is charged for the cost to cover the cleaning fee. Lastly, we ask each family to make a $500 refundable security deposit.
Membership is required for all families enrolled in our B Mitzvah preparation and needs to be up to date six months prior to the ceremony.
For more information, please contact Admin@JCoSD.com.


