The Next Generation of Jewish Richmond
Connecting Jewish young adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s through friendships, travel experiences, leadership opportunities, and a welcoming community for all.
If you are interested in getting involved or learning more, please contact Avi Remetz at aremetz@jewishrichmond.org
Events - Building Community Through Meaningful Gatherings
NextGen hosts signature events throughout the year that bring Jewish adults together to celebrate, connect, and build community.
Quarterly Community Shabbat Dinners
Each quarter, NextGen hosts Community Shabbat Dinners that bring together Jewish adults from across Richmond for an evening of connection, conversation, and celebration. Held in partnership with local synagogues, community organizations, and hosts, these gatherings provide a welcoming entry point for both longtime community members and those new to Jewish life.
Annual Community Hanukkah Celebration (Menorah Madness)
Each year, NextGen hosts a community-wide Hanukkah celebration called Menorah Madness that brings together young adults, families, and community members from across Richmond. As one of our largest annual events, the celebration unites the community through holiday traditions, food, entertainment, and the shared joy of Hanukkah.
NextGen Microgrants – Plan Your Own Activity
NextGen Micro-Grants empower young adults in Greater Richmond to create meaningful Jewish experiences and events to foster Jewish connection amongst peers. Grants provide up to $180 for activities with less than 10 participants, and $250 for programs with more than 10 participants to help bring your ideas to life.
These grants are designed to support grassroots initiatives, including (but not limited to) group Shabbat dinners, social outings, arts & culture programs, wellness events, and Jewish learning experiences. Funding cannot be used for private family functions or celebrations.
Ready to make a difference? Please click here to review the requirements and apply today and help shape the future of Jewish Richmond.
Leadership – Forging Future Jewish Leaders
Community Leadership Institute (CLI) - Develop the Skills to Lead
The Community Leadership Institute (CLI) empowers emerging Jewish leaders to strengthen their connection to the Richmond Jewish community while developing the skills, relationships, and knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact. Through interactive learning, conversations with community leaders, and hands-on experiences, participants gain a deeper understanding of Jewish Richmond and the opportunity to help shape its future.
Travel Opportunities - Explore the World
Through a Jewish Lens
NextGen offers transformational travel experiences for young adults that strengthen Jewish identity, build lasting relationships, and connect participants to vibrant Jewish communities around the globe. To maximize impact and reach different audiences, we rotate between our flagship travel opportunities on an annual basis.
Honeymoon Israel RVA
Honeymoon Israel RVA brings together local couples with at least one Jewish partner for a highly subsidized group trip to Israel. Participants explore Israel’s history, culture, diversity, and people while building meaningful connections with other Richmond-area couples. The experience is designed to help couples deepen their connection to Jewish life, regardless of their background, level of observance, or family structure. Through shared travel, conversations, and immersive experiences, participants form lasting friendships and become part of a supportive local network. Following the trip, couples continue to engage through holiday celebrations, social gatherings, volunteer opportunities, and community programs, helping to strengthen Jewish life in Richmond and create a sense of belonging for the next generation.
Sisisky Fellows Travel Experiences
The Sisisky Fellows program provides emerging Jewish leaders with immersive educational travel opportunities designed to deepen their understanding of Jewish history, peoplehood, and global issues. Fellows travel with peers from across Richmond, engaging with Jewish communities, historical sites, and contemporary challenges while developing leadership skills and lifelong connections. Past Sisisky Fellows journeys have taken participants to destinations including Greece, Georgia, Ukraine, and Japan. These experiences encourage participants to examine leadership through Jewish values while fostering meaningful discussions about identity, responsibility, and community.
