Chabad of Wilmette

The Chai Center is your local branch of Chabad International.

Acceptance of every Jew, regardless of background, affiliation, age or financial status, is the guiding force of the Chabad movement. Chabad helps Jews appreciate their roots and identify proudly with their Judaism.

We would like to introduce you to the Chai Center - Chabad of Wilmette and our community programs.

A Synagogue for Every Jew

At Chabad every Jew is a member. We conduct services in a warm and casual atmosphere. Many of those who attend our services do not read Hebrew, yet everyone feels at home. The prayers are sincere and inspiring, enhanced by the special spirit of joy and song.

Children play an integral role at the Chai Center, and have their own special children's service.

Learning for Every Jew

The Chai Center is a learning center for Jews coming from all walks of life and of all denominations. Indeed, everyone feels comfortable with the style and approach. The programs do not require any synagogue affiliation.

Our adult education program includes weekly ongoing Torah classes, guest speakers and renowned lecturers.

The Chai Center offers its own Hebrew School and Hebrew High School - The Wilmette Community Hebrew School - a place where the joys, values and traditions of Judaism are brought vividly to life. This experience represents a positive, cheerful and enjoyable chapter of the child's and young adult’s maturing process. Our goal is for the children to be left with deeply rooted feelings of pride and affection for their Jewish heritage.

The Chai Center is a founding affiliate of the world’s largest Adult Education Network, the JLI - Jewish Learning Institute. The JLI is a unique adult education program where one can acquire the essentials of Jewish literacy, regardless of one’s background or level of observance. It is accepting, interactive, practical, and academically stimulating. The JLI courses uncover timeless wisdom, equipped with the modern tools of today - comprehensive textbooks &materials, streamlined curriculum and a professional multi-media presentation - prepared by international experts in the field of adult Jewish education. Real learning for real life.

Tomorrow's Leaders

Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders. At Chabad we place a great emphasis on nurturing the idealism, energy and creativity within youth to foster a brighter tomorrow.

Bat Mitzvah Club - Instead of getting caught up with the theme, the clothing and the party favors, the Bat Mitzvah Club shows girls why a Bat Mitzvah is much more than a party. They learn what it really means to be a Jewish woman in the modern world. Girls get to know their Jewish self through art, hands-on-projects, creative writing and community outreach. These are the Bat Mitzvah gifts that last a lifetime.

JLI Teens — We follow our teenagers with excitement (and some trepidation!) as they all too quickly pass through their formidable years of development and race into adulthood – searching for identity, direction and their “place” in life.

JLI Teens is more than another after school program; it's a life-changing experience. Our sessions are built on a strong Jewish academic framework that is relevant, exciting and engaging – promoting lively discussion and debate! At JLI Teens, your teenager will be motivated to voice his or her opinion, developing and strengthening communication and leadership skills, and gaining a well-rounded base of wisdom, experience, and confidence. The JLI Teens experience will help your child face life's challenges proactively and positively – now that’sa recipe for success!

Our Unique Rabbi & Rebbetzin

Rabbi Dovid and Rivke Flinkenstein came to Wilmette in the summer of 1992 and established the Chai Center imbued with Chabad’s warm, enthusiastic and non-judgmental approach to all Jews.

They are a team, husband and wife. Dovid and Rivke offer an open and sincere setting to discuss, explore and experience Judaism and all of life's dynamics.

By taking a personal interest in every Jewish man, woman and child, the Flinkensteins' warmth and vitality adds a special dimension to the North Shore Community.

Come and Meet Us

There are no prerequisites for being involved with the Chai Center. Whether you are affiliated or not, have much Jewish training or none, you are always welcome to try one or all of our programs. We are here to serve and help you and your family.

Stop in and meet us.