Far West Programs
Below are some of the major Far West programs that occur each year. The description and a little history is written for each programs but for updates on the program check the flyers, applications, and calendar pages.
Far West on Wheels
It used to be that to start each year, there was a summer encampment known as Camp Far West. This encampment was held at Camp Ramah in Ojai, California. The purpose of this program was to bring together the USYers at the end of the summer to generate Ruach (spirit) and excitement for the coming USY year. Far West on Wheels developed almost by accident when the Region was unable to use Camp Ramah for Camp Far West. The decision to take the camp “on wheels‘
paid off handsomely; the excitement of travel combined with the programming of a Regional Kinnus made this program one of the highlights of the year for many USYers.
Quite a few USYers became active because of their positive experiences on Wheels. The Camp on Wheels was such a success that it evolved into “Far West on Wheels.‘
We have traveled not only to all of the cities in our Region, but also to New Frontier, Pinwheel, and Emtza for programming and sightseeing. It is important to note that this program is quite different in focus from International USY on Wheels. The itinerary changes yearly, enabling USYers to participate numerous times, seeing different areas of the country each year. The Cabinet appointees “Wheels‘
chair people who, together with the Regional Youth Director, plan and coordinate the entire trip. Far West on Wheels is quality USY program, comparable to the summer camp experience in its positive Jewish influence on our youth.
To sign up for Far West on Wheels keep an eye on the Applications Page. For dates of when Far West on Wheels is, you can check the Calendar or it will be posted on an application one the Applications Page.
Leadership, Education, And Development (L.E.A.D.)
We have tried different setting for this program, including hotels, synagogues, the University of Judaism, and a camp. Presently, our four-day Leadership, Education, And Development (LEAD) takes place at Camp Ramah over the Veteran’s Day weekend.
The heart of LEAD is the workshops led by the Regional Cabinet. This program, more than any other, belongs to them. It is their chance to develop the year. LEAD brings the leaders and potential leaders of the chapters together to learn how to become effective leaders of their chapter and the Region. It is a time for chapter leaders to meet with their Regional Cabinet counterparts.
LEAD is an opportunity for the Regional Board to spend time together and discuss the year ahead. Through discussion with other USYers and staff, the youth are able to get new ideas and insights, and new approaches toward the leadership of the chapter. LEAD is the beginning of the process of developing new leaders – a process that should continue throughout the year.
To sign up for LEAD keep an eye on the Applications Page. LEAD always occurs on Veteran’s Day weekend.
Regional Convention
The final annual program is the Regional Convention, which used to be held at Camp Ramah, then Las Vegas, then in the Hyatt in Irvine, and now at Brandeis. Over the past decade, Convention has traditionally held over the Memorial Day weekend at a Convention Hotel.
Elections of the new Cabinet members for the following year are held during the Convention. Awards are presented during the Convention to chapters, selected USYers, and adult lay leaders who are recognized for their outstanding service and accomplishment in Far West Region. With over 200 USYers, the program reflects the natural Ruach that results when such a large group gets together in one place - lots of singing, and many opportunities to cheer and vent energy.
To sign up for Convention keep an eye on the Applications Page. Convention always occurs on Memorial Day weekend.
Madrichim
A Madrich is the Hebrew term for the word guide, or counselor. In the context of a Youth Group, a Madrich (masculine Hebrew) or Madricha (feminine Hebrew) serves as counselors and mentors for the younger age groups (in our case, Kadima and Jr. USY). The idea is that it is much easier for an 8-13 year old to identify and look up to a teen, not much older than themselves. Obviously, Madrichim need training – everything from how to talk to little kids, to how to create a program, to how to help encourage kids to love Judaism. We have had some truly wonderful Far West USYers participate in this program and we are proud to say that they have done outstanding work as our Madrichim.
The purpose of the Regional Madrichim Program is to teach USYers how to be good role models and youth advisors. After a year of training, we believe that the Madrichim in training are ready to be staff for Kadimaniks and Jr. USYers at events and can also help program events.
To be a part of the Madrichim program your youth director will speak to you and give you the application. Madrichim usually occurs in the beginning of the year around October.