They flew in from the coasts and drove for hours from cities where Jewish life exists—but rarely with people their age. In Atlanta, for one weekend, that changed. These young Jewish professionals found themselves in a space where the conversations felt familiar, the questions ran deep, and the people around them understood what it means to be a young Jew in today’s world.
The inaugural CYP Encounter Southeast, hosted by Rabbi Eliyahu and Dena Schusterman and Rabbi Leivy and Shelbelle Lapidus of Chabad Intown Atlanta, brought together participants from Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and the Carolinas for a weekend of soulful inspiration and electric energy.
“In a time when young Jews are searching for meaning, identity, and real community, these gatherings matter more than ever,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “The Rebbe emphasized the power of these experiences to spark long-term growth. Our goal is that every participant returns home not just inspired—but more empowered, more connected, and more ready to build Jewish life wherever they are.”
From the first l’chaim at Friday night farbrengen to the Met@Chabad Compatibility Symposium on Motzai Shabbos, the Shabbaton delivered on its promise: deep conversations, Torah learning, and real friendships. Dozens of participants traveled from cities like Charlotte, Huntsville, and Birmingham—places where it can be difficult to find a consistent circle of peers who share your values and challenges.
“Spending Shabbat with fellow Jewish brothers and sisters, and hearing their stories—it was empowering,” said Allen Golden, who traveled from the Sunny Isles CYP chapter, led by Rabbi Eitan and Sonya Shilov. “Especially today, that sense of unity is so needed.”
“It’s a reminder that we’re not alone,” said Elizabeth from Los Angeles. “You meet someone from Alabama or North Carolina and realize you’re on the same journey. That’s powerful.”
The weekend was part of the broader Encounter initiative led by Rabbi Nissi Lepkivker at Merkos 302’s CYP International. While international gatherings like the CYP Encounter in Crown Heights broaden perspective—showing participants the vastness and diversity of the Jewish world—regional Encounters do something different. They connect young Jews facing similar questions in similar places, building relationships rooted in shared experience.
“Bringing young Jews together in their region means they can keep in touch,” said Rabbi Beryl Frankel, Director of CYP International at Merkos 302. “It builds community—not just a one-time experience.”
The program included spirited davening at Chabad Intown’s Beltline location, an open-floor “Crossfire” Q&A, Jewish thought discussions, a powerful lecture from Mrs. Shusterman on the power of storytelling, and a compatibility workshop that had participants rethinking relationships—with others and with themselves. The weekend culminated in a dynamic Havdala Social event.
Shluchim from across the region attended and led sessions, including Rabbi Motti and Chaya Groner of Charlotte, Rabbi Moshe and Mushky Cohen of Huntsville, Rabbi Levi and Mushka Weinbaum of Birmingham, and Rabbi Eitan and Sonya Shilov of Sunny Isles. Each brought a delegation, creating a powerful weekend of stories, accents, and aspirations.
“Atlanta is the original hub of the Southeast,” said Rabbi Lapidus. “It’s where the main rails used to meet. Now it’s where Jewish journeys converge.”
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To learn more about upcoming CYP Encounters or to bring a regional event to your area, visit chabadyoung.com or email [email protected].
