Valley Beth Shalom's chapter of United Synagogue Youth is a member of the Far West Region of USY, which is part of the Pacific Southwest Region of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.   VBS USY provides educational, spiritual, religious and social opportunities and activities for its members and the community.

MEMBERSHIP

Eligibility:
To be a member of VBS USY, you must be in grades 4-12.   Grades 4-6 are considered Kadimaniks, who have activities a few times a month and have a regional kinnus toward the end of the year.   Grades 7-8 are considered Junior USY, and they attend events geared for "All" and "Jr."   They may go to regional dances, kinnusim and all regional activities for Junior USYers.   Grades 9-12 are considered Senior USY.  Sr. USY may go to events for "All" and "Sr.", and often they have special events.

Cost:
$85.00 for Valley Beth Shalom Members
$110.00 for Non-Members of VBS

Benefits:
What does membership get me???   It entitles you to go to all chapter events at a discounted rate, regional and national programs (i.e. L.E.A.D., Regional Convention, Regional Dances, Kinnusim, etc.), and financial aid for major events for those who need it.

RESERVATIONS

RSVP's are requested for each and every event.   For some events, RSVPs are mandatory.   Please RSVP by the date that is requested on the flyer or the calendar.   If a reservation is not made, we won't have enough staff, buses, food, etc.   Many events are limited in space, and the earlier one RSVPs, the better chance he/she has of reserving a space.   You may RSVP to the VBS Youth Office at (818) 530-4026.

FRIENDS

We welcome and hope you will bring your Jewish friends to events even if they do not belong to VBS.   They may attend our activities up to two times at an additional charge of $5.00.   After the 2nd time we ask that they become a member.

WE MUST HAVE A COMPLETED PERMISSION SLIP AND LIABILITY RELEASE ON FILE BEFORE ANY ACTIVITY MAY BE ATTENDED.

POLICIES

Kashrut:
Since VBS USY is part of Valley Beth Shalom, an affiliated Conservative Congregation.   When you are at any USY event, you must adhere to the rules of Kashrut.   We do not eat meat or poultry when we are on an outing; pretty much only dairy and vegetarian.   If you are asked to bring a sack lunch, make sure it is dairy, and all ingredients are acceptable.   If you have any questions, the staff is always willing to help.

Do the right thing:
VBS USY and Kadima take time to help other people.   Once a month we lead Friday night Shabbat services at the Jewish Home for the Aging, and then celebrate Shabbat together with a traditional dinner.   Also, always use the best judgement when out on a USY outing.