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Durham Regional Temple Youth

What is Durham Regional Temple Youth (DRTY)? Our mission is to promote engagement in social action, creative worship experiences, dynamic youth leadership, and open environments that nurture lifelong friendships! We bring together all the reform Jewish teens (9th-12th graders) in the greater Durham/Chapel Hill area. We are affiliated with NFTY-MAR, and part of the Southernsub-region.  Click Here for a Guide to DRTY Vocab

What is the North American Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY)? NFTY is a Movement that builds strong, welcoming, inspired communities through teen-powered engagement. Together, we pursue tikkun olam, personal growth, youth empowerment, and deep connections, all rooted in Reform Judaism. For over 80 years, NFTY has offered thousands of young people the opportunity to explore and live Reform Judaism. Through programs that are offered by nearly 500 Reform congregations, 19 geographic NFTY regions, and on a North American level, teens are encouraged to forge Jewish identities in consonance with the values of Reform Judaism. Participation in NFTY helps teens build confidence, friendships and leadership skills through experiential youth-led educational programming including social justice projects, worship, and community-building initiatives. NFTY is open to teens in grades 9 to 12. Click here to browse the NFTY website.


Why Should YOU be a Member of DRTY? DRTY creates a welcoming and fun community for reform Jewish youth. DRTY provides a safe space for teens to explore Judaism, find their stance on social justice topics and discover about themselves. We hope to foster leadership skills and create lasting friendships. Not to mention it is super FUN! 

What Does a DRTY Membership Get You? A DRTY membership gets you full access to all things happening at DRTY. You will also receive a discounted price at events that have program fees. And to top it all off you will receive a brand new DRTY vinyl sticker, great for water bottles! Members will also receive discounts on all DRTY merch. 

Review our DRTY Brit (Agreements) and Click Here to Join Today!


 

Who's Who of DRTY at JRC

Ezra O'Mansky: President - Hi my name is Ezra O'Mansky, I'm a junior at Jordan high school and I'm excited to be your DRTY president for the 2023-24 school year. I've been a part of DRTY since my 9th grade year when I was recruited to be a part of board and I've enjoyed every moment since. In my free time I like to play basketball, video or really anything that isn't school related. I'm super excited to be your president this coming year and can't wait to meet all of you.
 
Ruby Morphis: Programming VP - Hi! I’m Ruby Morphis, this year's PVP. This will be my first year on board. I’ll be a sophomore this year at Durham School of the Arts. I’m outdoorsy and love to travel. I’m super excited to meet new people and be a part of DRTY! 
 
Shana Gordon: Communication VP - Hey! I’m Shana Gordon, the Communications Vice President for DRTY this year. This is my second year as a part of DRTY and my first year on Board. I’m currently a sophomore at Riverside High School. I am in the RHS engineering program, and I also run track and cross country for my school. I can’t wait to be the CVP this year!!
 
Gaby Goodman: Membership VP - Hi! I’m Gaby, and I’m a sophomore in high school. I’m a singer-songwriter, boxer, and I love hanging out with friends. I started going to DRTY events last year, and I’m so excited to be DRTY’s Membership VP this year!
 
Jack Fishkin: General Board Member - Hi my name is Jack Fishkin. I am a junior at Chapel Hill High School. This is my third year with DRTY and I am a general board member. I am very excited to be a part of DRTY this year and can’t wait for all the fun events!
 
Leah Lipstitch: General Board Member - 
Hey, I am Leah Lipsitch! I am a Junior at Durham Academy. I am the Social Action VP of NFTY-MAR, and I am a general board member of DRTY. I enjoy playing field hockey, backpacking, and listening to music.
 
Clare James: DRTY Advisor - Hi! I'm Clare James, the DRTY advisor. I grew up in Durham and was an active DRTY member while in high school. I graduated from App State in 2019 and currently teach Special Education Pre-K in Wake County. I love Taylor Swift and house plants. Can't wait to meet you! 

Jewish Teen Resources


THE COLLAB: Did you know that The Collab is coming up in less than 2 months? This incredible event is being held November 10-13 at URJ OSRUI in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin for 9-12 gradersDid you know that Reform Jewish teens from all over North America will be there? Most importantly, did you know that registration for The Collab ends on October 18? That is in less than one month!

Fellowships and Immersive Experiences

Bronfman Fellowship - Applications Due December 2023.

Sat, April 27 2024 19 Nisan 5784