Built by teens. Fueled by pizza.
Guided by Jewish educator-advisors and led by students, Jewish Student Connection clubs celebrate the intersection between Jewish and American culture, tradition, and values and nurture understanding and allyship among Jewish and non-Jewish students alike.
Each week, at high schools across metro Denver, hundreds of teens meet to explore Jewish and Israeli culture. Some students are just beginning their Jewish journeys; others are continuing to explore what it means to be Jewish today. Together, those teens are building the kind of Jewish social networks that studies have shown are strongly related to future engagement in and leadership of Jewish communal life.
Perhaps the best kept secret of Jewish Student Connection is its mentorship program. In one-on-one and small group meetings, JSC advisors lead by example, providing living models of how to live by Jewish values and why the choice to do so is so important, now more than ever.
For more information about a Jewish Student Connection club in your area, please email JSC@JEWISHcolorado.org.
Our Clubs
Don’t take it from us. Take it from the teens.
“I’ve met many new many friends and grown so much as a leader—and especially as a Jewish leader. I’ve learned how to inspire others and to stand up for what I believe in. My high school experience would be drastically different without JSC.”
“I love the JSC vibe. It’s a safe place, a place where I can learn about Jewish traditions and culture and where I can connect with other Jewish teens. I’ve discovered that there are so many ways to be Jewish, and that’s made me more comfortable and even proud of being Jewish.”
“I mean, I was Jewish before I joined, but I’ve learned so much about Judaism, the Jewish culture, and Israel. Honestly, I didn’t really enjoy Hebrew school, but JSC isn’t that. It’s comfortable and interesting and really, really fun.”
“I woke up this morning feeling sad, and then I remembered it was Thursday, and I had JSC today, my whole day changed for the better.”
Common Questions
Does my high school have a Jewish Student Connection Club?
Look at our website to see if your high school currently has a Jewish club. If you do not see your school on the list, reach out to jsc@jewishcolorado.org.
How do I start a Jewish Student Connection Club at my high school?
If you are a current high school student and would like to start a Jewish club at your school, email jsc@jewishcolorado.org. Jewish clubs are teen-led and must be initiated by current students.
What are the requirements to starting a club at my school?
Every school has different requirements for clubs. We will work with you, the activities director, and any other administrators to help start a club. Most clubs need a teacher sponsor and a handful of interested students.
Do I have to be Jewish to attend club?
NO! Jewish Student Connections welcomes all students who are interested in creating a safe community to explore the Jewish culture, values, traditions, holidays, and Israel.
Since my club is at lunch, will I be given food?
YES! Every club has some type of food. Usually, pizza and sometimes bagels.
How do you get money to feed all these teens?
We are funded and supported by generous donations to JEWISHcolorado and Jewish Student Connection.
If I come to club once, do I have to come every time?
No. We are a low-barrier way to experience a Jewish community at your school. Come as many times as it is right for you. After you come once, we know you will want to keep coming back!Â
How do I become a leader of my Jewish club?
Talk to the current leaders of your club and to the JSC Educators in the room. They will let you know the responsibilities and requirements for leading club.