Orthodox Union
Experience & Explore
Experience your impact firsthand.
Ready to see your impact up close?
Exclusively for our Board and Benefactor Circle, OU Experience and Explore is your chance to visit our programs in action, meet the communities we serve, and witness the tangible results of our collective efforts.
Current Programs
In Israel?
let us know!
We have lots of special programs, gatherings, and events happening. Inquire below to receive news about these unique opportunities.
Torah and Halacha Initiatives Presents
Chevra Kadisha Conference
April 27, 2026 | Edison, NJ
Join leaders and administrators from across North America for the Orthodox Union’s Men's Chevra Kadisha Leadership Conference. This one day, in person gathering offers a meaningful opportunity for those engaged in the sacred work of kavod hameis to come together for learning, networking, and chizuk. Participants will take part in expert-led sessions, practical demonstrations, and facilitated peer discussions designed to strengthen both halachic knowledge and operational leadership. Attendees will hear from leading rabbinic authorities and experienced Chevra Kadisha professionals, explore best practices in areas such as training, fundraising, and community education, and build relationships with colleagues in similar roles. Participants will leave with actionable tools, renewed clarity, and a strengthened sense of purpose to guide their Chevra Kadisha with confidence and care.
Synagogue Initiatives Presents
OU Shul Professional Programming: Event Planning
April 28, 2026 | Toronto, Canada
Join synagogue professionals and lay leaders from across North America for the fifth installment of the OU’s 2025–2026 Shul Professional Programming series. This one-day, in-person conference will explore best practices for planning and executing meaningful, well-run synagogue programs that engage communities and mobilize volunteers. Participants will hear from experienced practitioners, share ideas with peers, and gain practical tools for designing impactful programs—from concept and logistics to execution and follow-up—that strengthen communal connection and participation. This program is part of a yearlong arc of professional development culminating in the National Shul Professionals Conference in Baltimore in November 2026.
Women's Initiative Presents
Ignite
April 19, 2026 | USA
Discover Ignite, a program from the OU Women’s Initiative and ECP that invites you to come together with other women for inspiration and meaningful learning during Sefiras HaOmer. Through the theme “Count and Cultivate: Count the Days, Cultivate the Character,” you’ll explore how the days of Sefirah can become a powerful opportunity to grow in your middos and deepen your personal growth. Ignite is part of an ongoing series of gatherings throughout the Jewish year, offering meaningful moments to connect, reflect, and grow together. The featured locations during this round of programming will be Teaneck, Manhattan, Los Angeles, Toronto, and South Florida.
Yachad Presents
Thursday Night Mishmar Learning
Visits Arranged By Request| Teaneck, NJ
Yachad New Jersey invites you to join us for our Thursday Night Mishmar Program. Come partake in an evening of singing, learning, and inspiration at the Mendel Balk Yachad Center.
OU Israel Presents
Jerusalem Shiurim
Visits Arranged By Request | Jerusalem, Israel
Looking for something meaningful and familiar to anchor your week while you’re in Israel? OU Israel offers high-level shiurim in English that are warm, accessible, and easy to drop into, whether you’re here for a few days or a few months. Learn with inspiring teachers like Shira Smiles at Torah Tuesdays, a powerful women’s shiur that blends depth, inspiration, and practical takeaways, and take part in the Community Beit Midrash, a consistent and welcoming space for serious learning offered three days a week. Join once or make it your weekly rhythm. Check the weekly schedule for times, topics, and locations, and drop in while you’re in Israel.
JLIC PRESENTS
Coffee and connect
Visits Arranged By Request
Get to know our dynamic JLIC directors! Whether in the U.S., Israel, or Canada, gain a deeper understanding of how JLIC fosters vibrant Jewish life among emerging adults aged 18 to 30. These intimate conversations offer insight into how each couple brings JLIC’s educational approach to life within their communities, empowering the next generation of Jewish leaders through meaningful engagement, leadership development, and innovative programming.
OU Relief Missions Presents
Volunteer Trips
Visits Arranged By Request
OU Relief Missions arranges domestic and international trips. Groups range from high school, young professionals, families, and over 60s population. Domestic trips are three to five days. The work that our volunteers do can include house building, environmental work, and community help. Our international trips are around a week long and they include Romania, Rwanda, and Mumbai. Travel on a Relief Mission to repair the world and be an ambassador to the Jewish people.
OU Israel Presents
Beit Gojo
Visits Arranged By Request | Kiryat Gat, Israel
Ethiopian Jewish heritage comes to life at Beit Gojo, OU Israel’s Ethiopian Heritage Cultural Center in Kiryat Gat. Created by teens from OU Israel Teen Centers, Beit Gojo offers an immersive, interactive experience rooted in pride, tradition, and belonging. Visitors step into a traditional Ethiopian home, take part in an authentic coffee ceremony, and enjoy hands-on pita making, all guided by those who live this culture every day. Your visit supports at-risk teens in Israel’s periphery, strengthening identity and community while offering a meaningful and unforgettable Israel experience. We invite you to experience Beit Gojo in Kiryat Gat on your next Israel trip.
OU Israel presents
ZUla centers
Visits Arranged By Request
At-risk Israeli teens have a place to call home at OU Israel’s Zula drop in centers, where they are greeted with love, acceptance, music and food. Our counselors and staff have helped thousands find a healing and strong path to a bright future. We invite you to visit our Zula’s in Jerusalem, Tsfat, or the Kimberley this summer.
Learn About Our Past Programs
Join synagogue professionals and lay leaders from across North America for the fourth installment of the OU’s 2025–2026 Shul Professional Programming series. This one-day, in-person conference will focus on skill-building, leadership development, and long-term professional growth for synagogue professionals seeking to elevate their impact. Participants will hear from experienced leaders and practitioners, engage in reflective and practical learning, and gain tools to strengthen their leadership presence, expand their capabilities, and grow sustainably within the evolving landscape of synagogue life. This program is part of a yearlong arc of professional development culminating in the National Shul Professionals Conference in Baltimore in November 2026.
Join the experts from OU Kosher, in conjunction with ORB, for an enjoyable and engaging evening, diving into the depths of kashrus through live bird and fish demonstrations followed by an interactive Q & A session. The program is open to men and women.
Hosted in Phoenix, participants will gather in community to rejoice in the accomplishment of daily Torah learning, share meaningful reflections, and connect with fellow learners and educators in an atmosphere filled with inspiration, spiritual growth, and heartfelt connection. Included in the festivities are shiurim, opportunities to meet Nach Yomi ‘sisters’ from near and far, and the uplifting energy of thousands of women united by their commitment to Jewish learning. Each attendee will leave feeling enriched, encouraged, and part of a global network of Torah-minded women.
Adar B’Yachad is a celebration bringing women and girls in the community together to celebrate the spirit of Purim. This vibrant program creates a welcoming, inclusive space where participants from across the community can celebrate together. This event reflects Yachad’s commitment to fostering belonging and joy, ensuring that every participant can experience the excitement and warmth of a true Purim chagigah.
Hosted in Boca Raton, participants will gather in community to rejoice in the accomplishment of daily Torah learning, share meaningful reflections, and connect with fellow learners and educators in an atmosphere filled with inspiration, spiritual growth, and heartfelt connection. Included in the festivities are shiurim, opportunities to meet Nach Yomi ‘sisters’ from near and far, and the uplifting energy of thousands of women united by their commitment to Jewish learning. Each attendee will leave feeling enriched, encouraged, and part of a global network of Torah-minded women.
Hosted in Jerusalem, participants will gather in community to rejoice in the accomplishment of daily Torah learning, share meaningful reflections, and connect with fellow learners and educators in an atmosphere filled with inspiration, spiritual growth, and heartfelt connection. Included in the festivities are shiurim, opportunities to meet Nach Yomi ‘sisters’ from near and far, and the uplifting energy of thousands of women united by their commitment to Jewish learning. Each attendee will leave feeling enriched, encouraged, and part of a global network of Torah-minded women.
Join synagogue professionals and lay leaders from across North America for the third installment of the OU’s 2025–2026 Shul Professional Programming series. This one-day, in-person conference will focus on learning how to prioritize effectively, manage competing demands, and create sustainable workflows that bring greater clarity, efficiency, and balance to professional life. Participants will hear from experienced professionals, engage in practical skill-building and peer learning, and leave with actionable tools to better manage their time and responsibilities in the unique, fast-paced environment of synagogue leadership. This program is part of a yearlong arc of professional development culminating in the National Shul Professionals Conference in Baltimore in November 2026.
Hosted in Woodmere, the Siddur Party is a girls’ night experience for Jewish women who are looking to reconnect with the power and beauty of prayer in a creative and meaningful way. At the Siddur Party, participants will take part in a guided learning and note-taking session led by Eve’s Gardeners while bedazzling, decorating, and personalizing their own siddur to take home as a lasting keepsake. Each participant will leave feeling inspired, connected, and uplifted through a night of spirituality, creativity, and community, featuring music, food, wine, and a fun, welcoming girls’ night atmosphere.
Hosted in Teaneck, the Siddur Party is a girls’ night experience for Jewish women who are looking to reconnect with the power and beauty of prayer in a creative and meaningful way. At the Siddur Party, participants will take part in a guided learning and note-taking session led by Eve’s Gardeners while bedazzling, decorating, and personalizing their own siddur to take home as a lasting keepsake. Each participant will leave feeling inspired, connected, and uplifted through a night of spirituality, creativity, and community, featuring music, food, wine, and a fun, welcoming girls’ night atmosphere.
Hosted in Woodmere, participants will gather in community to rejoice in the accomplishment of daily Torah learning, share meaningful reflections, and connect with fellow learners and educators in an atmosphere filled with inspiration, spiritual growth, and heartfelt connection. Included in the festivities are shiurim, opportunities to meet Nach Yomi ‘sisters’ from near and far, and the uplifting energy of thousands of women united by their commitment to Jewish learning. Each attendee will leave feeling enriched, encouraged, and part of a global network of Torah-minded women.
In partnership with Boca Raton Synagogue, this empowering and practical evening is designed for emerging career professionals looking to build confidence and clarity around their finances. Led by Stacey Zrihen, CFP, participants will explore the fundamentals of personal money management, gain actionable tips to strengthen their financial future, and engage in an open, approachable Q&A. Drawing on her experience working with over 1,200 families through OU’s Living Smarter Jewish initiative, Stacey brings real-world insight and guidance that feels relevant, supportive, and achievable. Attendees will leave feeling informed, motivated, and equipped with tools to make smarter financial decisions, while also learning about opportunities for free financial coaching through OU’s Living Smarter Jewish.
Hosted in Chicago, participants will gather in community to rejoice in the accomplishment of daily Torah learning, share meaningful reflections, and connect with fellow learners and educators in an atmosphere filled with inspiration, spiritual growth, and heartfelt connection. Included in the festivities are shiurim, opportunities to meet Nach Yomi ‘sisters’ from near and far, and the uplifting energy of thousands of women united by their commitment to Jewish learning. Each attendee will leave feeling enriched, encouraged, and part of a global network of Torah-minded women.
Hosted in Boston, participants will gather in community to rejoice in the accomplishment of daily Torah learning, share meaningful reflections, and connect with fellow learners and educators in an atmosphere filled with inspiration, spiritual growth, and heartfelt connection. Included in the festivities are shiurim, opportunities to meet Nach Yomi ‘sisters’ from near and far, and the uplifting energy of thousands of women united by their commitment to Jewish learning. Each attendee will leave feeling enriched, encouraged, and part of a global network of Torah-minded women.
Join synagogue professionals and lay leaders from across North America for the second installment of the OU’s 2025–2026 Shul Professional Programming series. This one-day, in-person conference will focus on building stronger teams through effective hiring, supervision, evaluation, and compliance, offering practical tools for managing people while navigating legal, ethical, and cultural challenges unique to synagogue life. Participants will hear from leading legal experts, rabbinic authorities, and experienced professionals, engage in meaningful peer learning, and leave with actionable strategies to strengthen their institutions. This program is part of a yearlong arc of professional development culminating in the National Shul Professionals Conference in Baltimore in November 2026.
Join Rabbi Yisroel Bendelstein and Rabbi Eli Eleff of OU Kosher for a behind-the-scenes look at how the humble doughnut becomes a kosher delight. Learn about the intricate kashrus process, discover the small miracles that make Jewish life simpler, and take part in a live Q&A with our OU experts.
An engaging evening of practical kashrus insight comes to the Minneapolis community, exploring how kashrus functions from local kitchens to global systems. The program will feature a live, hands-on demonstration of the kashrus of fish, followed by an interactive Q&A with leading OU Kosher rabbonim. Featuring Rabbi Moshe Elefant, Chief Operating Officer of OU Kosher; Rabbi Eli Eleff, Managing Director of OU Kosher; and Rabbi Chaim Goldberg, Rabbinic Coordinator of OU Kosher.
The JSU Presidents Conference brings together 275 Jewish teen leaders from across North America for three transformative days of leadership development, hands-on workshops, and immersive experiences. This unique gathering empowers teens with the skills, confidence, and inspiration to return home and lead their local JSU communities with renewed energy and purpose.
It’s more than a conference, it’s an opportunity to witness and support the next generation of Jewish leaders who are shaping a vibrant Jewish future every single day.
The Orthodox Union and the National Eruv Initiative proudly present the Fourth Annual City Eruv Conference, a premier gathering designed for eruv builders, supervisors, and halachic authorities. This immersive event offers in-depth learning on the application of hilchos eruvin in contemporary urban environments, with sessions led by leading poskim and field experts. Explore best practices in construction and supervision, receive hands-on training with tools and safety protocols, and learn strategies for public education, fundraising, legal permitting, and the latest eruv management software. This is a unique opportunity to connect with a national network of professionals dedicated to sustaining and enhancing eruv infrastructure across North America.
Yachad New Jersey invites you to join us for our Thursday Night Mishmar Program. Come partake in an evening of singing, learning, and inspiration at the Mendel Balk Yachad Center.
Israel's Anglo teens are having a incredible summer of connecting to Torah, Zionism, and each other in a packed schedule of fun activities and events. The enthusiastic and professional staff specialize in building ruach, relationships, and meaning. Located in the northern Golan, our boys and girls meet new and old friends from around Israel and the world for a summer to remember. This year, they are joined by campers from the OU's Yachad and NSCY's Chai camps for a full immersive Anglos in Israel experience. You are invited to visit Camp Dror to experience the simcha, ruach and power yourself.
OU Israel’s Legacy Camp gives Israeli teens from disadvantaged areas a summer camp experience so they can heal and strengthen from the ongoing fears, anxiety, and disruption that started Oct 7. Experience the joy and comraderie of Israel’s most deserving teens.
Yachad Summer Programs all along the east coast get together for a fun day to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate their Yachad Summer experience!
Camp Morasha was the first mainstream camp to partner with Yachad 25 years ago! Join us as we celebrate with dinner followed by the annual Morasha Shiria dedicated in honor of Yachad’s 25th summer at Camp Morasha!
GIVE Nation is a 5 week Israel summer program where extraordinary high school girls are given the opportunity to experience hands-on Judaism through the art of giving back. Participants visit an array of chesed organizations and experience firsthand what it means to be a responsible member of the Jewish people by helping those in need. From soup kitchens to medical clowning, greeting a Nefesh B’Nefesh flight to painting kindergartens in underprivileged communities, GIVErs are able to contribute to the many needs of those Jews living in Israel. While GIVE Nations’s primary focus is volunteer work, touring and exposure to the land of Israel continues to be a major piece of the summer. When not engaged in chesed activities, GIVE Nations takes you to many of the major tourist attractions throughout Israel. Some highlights include spending Shabbat in Tzfat, banana boating on the Kineret, hiking in the Judean desert and the Golan, and mountain rappelling and floating in the Dead Sea. GIVE Nation is an opportunity for girls to give back some of the good that they have received in their lives to those less fortunate.
Hatzalah Rescue is a co-ed travel program for teens who are looking to learn CPR, Hemorrhage Control, and how to be a First Responder. On Hatzalah Rescue, participants will volunteer on an ambulance, assist in the logistics center, and learn the intricacies about Hatzalah’s dispatch center. Each participant will be able to make an impact on the Israeli people through their willingness to give back. Activities include: Water sports in the Kineret with Hatzalah’s state of the art rescue vehicles, Jeep in the desert on sand vehicles, Rappel off Israel’s cliffs with Hatzalah’s search and rescue unit, and more.
Camp Chaverim Yachad is a self-contained sleepaway camp for over 120 boys and young adults with developmental disabilities. Last summer the shul we use at camp burned down, destroying 120 pairs of tefillin, seforim, lots of equipment, and the only space for our whole group to get together for tefillah and activities. It was a miracle that no one was hurt and that the sefer Torah was moved unexpectedly the night before! While the shell of the building was covered by insurance, the items inside were not. We ran a fundraiser to cover the tefillin replacement costs and are in the midst of a second fundraiser to help replace items from inside the shul- tables, chairs, Aron Kodesh, seforim, sound equipment, etc. We are fortunate that the building itself was rebuilt in time for our use this summer, and we’ve been able to turn the empty shell into a space that resonates with davening and Torah learning. Join us in our Chanukas Habayis event to celebrate the miracles that happened during the fire and to celebrate the rebuilding of the shul!