Our Story

Chayeinu was founded by a group of people who were concerned about the alarming increase in alcohol and drug use in the Jewish community. After meeting and interviewing a wide range of rabbis, school principals, guidance counselors and concerned parents, we discovered a combination of, concern, confusion, contradiction, denial, resignation, hope and despair. In many instances, community leaders told us that they were addressing these issues on a case-by-basis (after symptoms and problems were recognized), which led us to conclude that there was and is a need for more education and awareness. Our goal is to focus on wellness, addiction prevention and support. This will require concerted efforts and cooperation among families, community leaders, rabbis, shuls, principals, schools, guidance counselors and educators.