Over 100 Jewish teens from non-yeshiva day schools will be treated to a highly subsidized weekend of adventure with NCSY, January 13-15th. Participants from 9 states will gather in North Miami Beach for a Shabbat experience, complete with traditional meals hosted by the welcoming community, learning sessions dedicated to the relevancy of Judaism in the teen world and a day trip to Orlando Theme Parks on Sunday.

"What I find most exciting about the Hahn Family Shabbaton is the community excitement and involvement it always generates,” says Rabbi Benjamin Gonsher, Director of Institutional Advancement for Southern NCSY.

“Typically, our conventions are held in hotels throughout the South, and although luxurious, they don't allow for the symbiotic enthusiasm between the kids and the community to add to the program. Nothing is more inspiring than seeing our kids connect to the role models in North Miami Beach, the professionals and the lay leaders, and especially the wonderful families. That can really change a kid's life," added Gonsher.

Rena Stern, a 10th grader at McFatter High School says she "is looking forward to the Hahn Family Shabbaton because it ignites within me a spark of Jewish pride. Last year, I returned home, super happy, with aura of spiritual connectivity and confidence after having connected with so many other Jewish teens in South Florida, just like me."

Once a year, Elliot and Lilian Hahn partner with Southern NCSY to host this Shabbaton. For the past five years, the Hahn’s have been the backbone of this program. They not only give of themselves financially, but also devote their time and effort to coordinate this Shabbaton, spending time with the teens and harnessing community support.

NCSY is committed to provide a safe space where teens can celebrate their Jewish heritage; embrace Torah and Tradition; develop a positive Jewish identity; acquire invaluable leadership skills; connect with dedicated Jewish role models; and learn to live passionately Jewish lives.

For more information on the Hahn Family Weekend of Adventure or Southern NCSY, please visit www.southernncsy.org or email gonsherb@ncsy.org