On Sunday, May 19, 200 people gathered for a community symposium at Congregation Beth Sholom. “When Our Children Date: The Complex Role of Parents” covered a wide array of topics from financial independence to building resiliency to sensible tips on networking for children.
“I would have been happy if the program lasted for another hour,” said one mother after listening to the insights of noted speakers Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz, Rebbetzin Elisheva Kaminetsky, and Mindy Eisenman.
Moderated by Rebbetzin Marjorie Glatt, the special projects coordinator at YUConnects, the attendees had an opportunity to learn more about the YUConnects organization, meet matchmakers, and learn what was new in the dating world.
“Everyone in the room showed up because they cared about someone … it was heartwarming,” noted Dr. Efrat Sobolofsky, director of YUConnects. “The turnout demonstrates the need for further educational panels and forums on this topic.” The event was sponsored and supported by local families and institutions; funds raised will fund future programming to assist singles.
Handouts on dating resources and genetic-screening options were available to those who attended. Inspired by the closing words of Rabbi Dr. Aaron Glatt, numerous parents spoke to each other after the symposium while brainstorming on match suggestions together.
In a new initiative, YUConnects publicized the appointment of Malky Galler as the Long Island Regional Connector, focusing her matchmaking on singles from this area. A kindhearted and experienced matchmaker, Malky is available for local meetings and appointments. She can be reached at yuconnectsli@gmail.com.
YUConnects, together with SawYouAtSinai and the Young Israel of Woodmere, is also running the Linda Mitgang, a’h, Shabbos in Woodmere, on May 31–June 1. As in prior years, the young professionals will have an opportunity to meet each other in a comfortable atmosphere, enjoying an interactive program and delicious food. Linda Mitgang, a’h, was a Woodmere resident who loved matchmaking and bringing people together; her family is happy to contribute to the Shabbos in her memory. Learn more by emailing yuconnects@yu.edu or visiting YUConnects.com.
