This past January, our chapter held our annual overnight event, which became our most successful program of the year. We had created the script for this event with the intention of making it meaningful and unforgettable for all of our members. As N’siah, with many younger new members and two new prospects, I had been worried that the rituals and traditions we decided to incorporate would scare our members away. To a new member, the more ritual-based aspects of BBYO can seem foreign, and I hoped that we could make all of our new members feel included and would walk out the next day with long-lasting memories. Despite my worries, every single BBG there had an incredible time! Here are the three rituals we included in our event, plus two more to consider adding to future programs:
A classic, of course, and one of the most exciting activities for both board members and general members! Our board prepared for weeks for our separates, and we were so happy to be able to share all of our stories and experiences with the people we love most! Once I was passing out supplies for the group activity, every single BBG in the circle was crying (happy tears, I promise). It was such a meaningful experience to be able to make such a big impact on all of our younger members!
Honestly, I was the most excited for this part of the night. After spending so long with all of our new members, I was so thrilled to be able officially welcome them in as members of the chapter, region, and order. My Aym Ha Chaverot and I worked so hard to prepare for our inductions, making sure to give each and every member a personal experience that made them feel appreciated. It was seriously the CUTEST thing! I highly encourage every chapter to make installs as personal as possible—the hard work seriously pays off.
I know technically every chapter is required to have a business meeting, but I don’t think my chapter has held one in years before our event. At our business meeting, we were able to pass real constitutional legislation to better the future of our chapter, while simultaneously incorporating funny moments by choosing our new chapter sweetheart. It was so important to teach parliamentary procedure to our younger members, while still having fun throughout!
Obviously, we didn’t hold a life ceremony at this event (because it’s January), but it still stands as one of my favorite traditions in BBYO. BBYO Lives gives chapters the opportunity to honor both their seniors and their underclassmen. Giving life really makes each BBYO journey so special!
Judaic programming doesn’t just keep our Jewish heritage alive in BBYO, it carries long-lasting BBYO traditions. From melodies to dances, Shabbat and Havdalah services keep all members engaged and having a good time. Each prayer holds a piece of BBYO tradition from your chapter, region, and the international order. Although services sound deterring, they always end up being SO. MUCH. FUN.
Rylie Birnbaum is a BBG from L'chaim BBG #2418 in Nassau Suffolk Region and is from Melville, NY.
All views expressed on content written for The Shofar represent the opinions and thoughts of the individual authors. The author biography represents the author at the time in which they were in BBYO.
