Around the world, Shluchim are observing the same shift: young Jewish professionals aren’t looking for just another event. They’re seeking real community, meaningful Jewish experiences, genuine relationships, and Torah’s insights that speak to their everyday lives.
That momentum is driving unprecedented turnout for CYP Encounter Crown Heights, taking place January 16–18, 2026 – 27–29 Teves 5786.
“We spend much of our time creating programs,” shared Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff of YJP Houston, who brings a group annually. “But this is different. When people experience Shabbos with their peers from across the globe in Crown Heights, something powerful clicks for them.”
Already, 100+ communities worldwide have registered, booking flights and rallying to ensure their friends don’t miss what has become a flagship weekend for the next generation.
“Over the years, we’ve seen what a single weekend can spark,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302. “Participants return home empowered to lead, to build, to take ownership of their Yiddishkeit in a real way. The weekend’s growth and excitement is a natural extension of that.”
In a world of surface-level connections, today’s young professionals are looking for depth. They’re navigating relationships, career pressure, and so much more, and they want answers that feel real.
“Encounter is an immersive deep dive into the heart of authentic Yiddishkeit built for especially for this demographic,” said Rabbi Nissi Lepkivker, director of CYP Encounters at Merkos 302. “Rather than programming for spectators, the weekend places participants inside lived Jewish life, davening at 770, the Ohel, Shabbos meals with local families, and legendary farbrengens.”
“The schedule is packed, and every piece is designed to uplift and inspire,” said Rabbi Beryl Frankel, Director of Chabad Young Professionals at Merkos 302. “Participants go home with new energy and a stronger, more practical connection to Yiddishkeit.”
For Shluchim, bringing a group is powerful. They’ve seen the “post-Encounter” effect: participants return home with pride, clarity, and tools to build Jewish life into their daily routine.
What stands out most, they say, is not excitement, but continuity.
“It’s an incredible experience, it’s been a transformative Shabbos in the past,” said Rabbi Zalmy Dubinski
Another added, “We consistently see people return with new clarity about how Judaism fits into their daily lives as a young jewish professional living in today’s world.”
That impact compounds over time. Communities that have brought groups once often return year after year, not out of habit, but because of what they continue to see.
“This is our fourth year bringing a group,” shared Rabbi Levi Deren from Stamford, CT. “We keep coming back because we see the long-term impact.”
In some communities, that impact is driving rapid growth.
“Last year we brought a small group,” said Rabbi Tzemach Lerman from Northern Virginia. “This year we’re tripling it, because participants told their friends how meaningful it was, and we are still seeing the ripple effects a year later.”
CYP Encounter: Crown Heights
27–29 Teves 5786
January 16–18, 2026 (MLK Weekend)
Visit: cypshabbat.nyc
my young adults go every year and they love it!