Rabbi Menachem and Mrs. Chaya Cadaner, along with their children, have taken on an important mission in New Haven, Connecticut. Originally, they aimed to establish the first permanent Chabad house in Cuba, but their plans shifted when they received guidance from the Rebbe that their focus should be on educating American youth.
After working hard to secure their visas for Cuba, they opened a letter from the Rebbe that surprisingly praised their educational efforts—but it was directed to a community member in New Haven. This prompted the Cadaners to reconsider their mission, ultimately deciding to prioritize the needs of the youth in their new community instead of heading to Cuba.
Rabbi Menachem has a rich background in Jewish education. He has served in various yeshivas and has been a mentor to countless students. He studied under Rabbi Y. Lustig at Yeshivas Beis Dovid Shlomo, where his dedication to learning culminated in the completion of the entire Talmud. His involvement continues in New Haven, where he leads classes that connect students to Jewish teachings.
Chaya brings her experience from her upbringing in Beverly Hills, where she worked with public school students and held leadership roles in Jewish education. She has a degree in Child Psychology and spent ten years working with Tzivos Hashem, emphasizing youth engagement and nurturing the next generation.
Now in New Haven, the Cadaners are focused on creating a welcoming environment for local youth. They recently collaborated with community leaders and professionals to understand the greatest needs in their area. They aim to develop a safe, fun space for children, where they can grow and embrace their Jewish identity.
Their goal is to establish a preventive approach that fosters healthy development for all children, rather than just addressing issues for those at risk. With various programs in place, such as the Ahavas Yisroel Chesed Club, children learn to support their peers and engage positively within their community.
This initiative is about empowerment and leadership, inviting children to actively participate in the unfolding events of the Jewish future. The Cadaners believe that today’s youth are the key to ushering in a brighter, more connected world.
Research supports the idea that engaging youth in community activities can significantly improve their well-being and sense of belonging. A study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services showed that youth involved in community service and youth programs demonstrated lower dropout rates and better social skills. This aligns with the Cadaners’ vision of providing a supportive environment for growth and connection.
Ultimately, the Cadaners are inspired to see a Moshiach Youth home in every community worldwide. Their mission is ambitious but rooted in a strong belief in the potential of today’s youth. With the right support, they can make a lasting impact on their community and beyond.
For more information about their initiative, you can visit Moshiach Youth to learn how to get involved or support their cause.