NYC Gazette

Simchat Torah offers an opportunity for renewal, inviting a fresh perspective on familiar teachings. This year, over 90 Yeshiva University (YU) students participated in the Aaron and Blanche Schreiber Torah Tours program, visiting 25 Jewish congregations across North America. Volunteer Brandon Melamed described the experience as "a 'wow' experience," emphasizing the bonds formed with strangers who shared a common purpose.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Torah Tours program sends YU students to various communities during Simchat Torah and Shavuot. These students engage with host communities by leading discussions, organizing learning programs, dancing during hakafot, and initiating kumzitzim. This year's tours coincided with a somber anniversary on October 7th, adding emotional depth to their mission.

Avraham Frohlich from Toronto's Mishkan Avraham noted the importance of community strength: "I think we are best suited to engage with the rest of the world if we are confident in our own community." Zachary Srulovich shared his emotional experience at Ahavas Sholom in Columbus, Ohio: "I will never forget the rabbi calling upon us to remember those who were killed on that day."

Rabbi Tuvia Brander from Young Israel of West Hartford highlighted the mutual benefits of Torah Tours: "Each year, our congregation gets to meet students who embody the values... Through their energy and commitment... they serve as powerful role models." He added that student volunteers also learn about sustaining thriving Jewish communities.

First-time participant Tamara Yeshurun felt uncertain about celebrating Simchat Torah away from home but found inspiration at Kehillat Shaarei Torah in Toronto: "By the end of the holiday, the congregation began to feel like home."

Rabbi Ari Rockoff praised YU students' contributions: “They are a powerful example of our strength, resilience, and continuity.”