| The Lubavitch-Chabad Jewish Student & Community Center of Alachua County – Gainesville, FL was founded on the principle that every Jew is equal & deserving of a Jewish experience regardless of affiliation or level of observance. The center has become a home to Alachua County Jewry, opening its arms and hearts to Jews from all walks of life without a membership requirement. We don’t merely wait for the people to come to us; we go out and bring the joys of Judaism and the gifts of friendship to them. We are dedicated to enhancing the beauty of our heritage, for any child, woman or man, through blending traditional values with contemporary techniques. Treasuring each individual for his or her unique qualities is the hallmark of our center, highlighting our philosophy that a Jew is a Jew is a Jew. The center strives to continuously connect with the Gainesville Jewish community, and help them connect to their roots as they discover meaning in living Jewishly. With a wide range of educational programs, services, holiday events, lectures series, and Camp Gan Israel, the center offers Judaism on every level, thus ensuring Jewish pride, continuity and identity in our community.
As a home away from home for all Jewish students at the University of Florida, the Lubavitch-Chabad Student Center has found the modern formula to develop a rapport with thousands of students from a myriad of backgrounds thus enhancing their outlook and assisting them on a path to appreciate their roots and identify with their Judaism with pride. We offer a non-judgmental, open and friendly beacon of light amidst an array of political agendas, counter-cultures, missionaries and isms all vying for the student’s body and mind. Our aim is to revitalize their spirit and deepen their knowledge and commitment to G-d and humanity. Lubavitch is the one address where every Jewish student can turn to for everything from a homemade bowl of chicken soup on Friday night to a Torah class or philosophical discussion during the week. On a personal level, Rabbi Berl, Chanie and their family are available 24/7 for counseling or just a welcoming friendly chat. Our commitment is to touch the heart of each boy and girl, thus tapping into their soul and deepest sense of self. The ‘make or break’ times are the years spent away in college. Lubavitch is at the University of Florida to make Judaism a tangible reality and enjoyable experience to each student on their level. Whether a student joins a Shabbat dinner among 200 peers one a year, once a month, or attends classes throughout the week, we are rekindling the Jewish spark and ultimately changing lives and making a difference.
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