Dec. 2025
Melissa Dubinsky

The amazing time I’ve had with BBYO over the past four years inspired me to volunteer to run “BBYO Connect:” our new program for kids in Grades 6-8. In Hamilton and Oakville there is a big Jewish community, with a lot of kids of a variety of ages. I believe that those kids should get an opportunity to meet each other and have fun together, like my friends and I do at BBYO.

Our first “BBYO Connect” event this year was a limo scavenger hunt. Throughout the event we gave the kids envelopes that contained clues that led to destinations around Hamilton. For some they had to unscramble words or pictures, then we hopped into limousines once they solved each clue.

At each location we had an activity to complete. For example, at Mastermind Toys, they had to find a toy that resembled them and explain why. It was a very fun time. There were so many kids from different schools and different areas, including Oakville, Hamilton, Dundas, and even St Catherines! Some already knew each other and stuck together, while others were nervous and didn’t know anyone. My role was to be like a camp counselor and bring people together. I was supposed to make this event exciting, while ensuring each kid felt welcomed and included. 

Throughout the day, I made sure to facilitate group conversations to encourage them to talk to each other, leading some games, asking some questions, and just keeping up an overall positive vibe. By the end of the trip the kids were laughing, talking like long-time friends, and were so eager for the next event!
Events like these are so important for our community.I’m proud that I created a safe space where Jewish middle schoolers could simply just hang out with each other — a  space where they only needed to worry about having fun. 

Any Jewish kid in Grade 6-8 is welcomed to come to “BBYO Connect!” Our next event is a snow tubing trip on Jan. 18. Check out all the details at bbyo.ca/connect. We would love to have you there! For more information, email [email protected].