Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel
432 Scotland Road, South Orange, NJ 07079
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Iris Family Matters

Initiated by the generosity of the Iris Family, this committee has two missions.

  • Create opportunities for families to have quality time together within an informal Jewish milieu.
  • Develop special events that use creative programming to address challenging issues.  Interactive Theater Programs--- Educational theater company addresses real issues faced by teens today.  The objectives of this program are to:
    • Develop creative problem solving skills.
    • Exercise communication skills.
    • Foster an appreciation for a range of viewpoints.
    • Create a forum for the exchange of ideas.
    • Challenge the “easy” answers and encourage thinking on deeper levels.
    • Prepare students to deal with difficult situations through the vicarious experience of a dramatization.
This year’s topics:
  • College Preparation: A Family Systems Approach
  • Discussions about college, Jewish values and adult responsibilities. All programs will be incorporated into the Hebrew High schedule.
  • Students – Stressing and the SAT.
  • Looking at basic family roles and dynamics: What role do I play in my family?
  • Dealing with feelings of separation: Exploring family values and traditions.
  • What will I take with me and what will I leave behind when I go to college? What are my expectations?
  • Family dynamics:
  • Students: Revisiting the role I play in my family. What does it mean when I leave my family circle? What does it mean when I come back? These are the things I want my parents to know as I prepare to leave for college.
  • Part I: Where does my Judaism fit in College? Exploring Hillel, Jewish Student Unions and Local Synagogues. Keeping My Eyes Open: Facing Racism and Bigotry, Anti Israel propaganda and Cults on Campus.
  • Part II: Staying Safe at College: Remembering the buddy system, sexual activity and condom safety, alcohol binging and parties, gambling and credit card debt. Who can I call for help?
Programs Pending:
  • Grief Support groups for Children, Adolescents and Adults
  • Divorce Support groups for Children, Adolescents and Adults
  • Support group for survivors of heart injuries
  • Staying in touch with my child in a technologically advanced worldt.
Please let us know if you or someone you know is interested in participating in these support group opportunities. We want to thank Congregation members who provided the feedback that assisted in the creation of the schedule that addresses the issues currently facing our youth and the community. If you, your family or a friend would like to suggest a topic or issue that Temple Sharey Tefilo-Israel should address or would like to join this innovative committee, please email Tracy Horwitz.