The Polak Shabbat Program

Inspiring teenage boys to keep Shabbat and a Meaningful Jewish Life

The Polak Shabbat Program works with post-high school young men, primarily from New York, London, and Miami, who come to Israel for a year of yeshiva study. Many of them arrive with little background in Jewish observance, and even those who grew up religious may be struggling after having “fallen off the path.”

At the same time, they face the many challenges of today’s world: addictions to phones, social media, vaping, and especially marijuana, which has sadly become normalized in modern youth culture.

 The Challenge of Shabbat

In such an environment, keeping Shabbat becomes a real challenge.
Those who come from non-observant homes struggle to disconnect from all the distractions and connect to the deeper meaning of the day.
But even young men from religious backgrounds who’ve drifted away often find it hard to reconnect, especially without a supportive and inspiring structure.

This program offers exactly that — a warm, safe, non-judgmental space to rediscover not only Shabbat, but themselves.

 Daily Learning – Building Real Connection

Each day, the boys learn practical halachot (Jewish laws) of Shabbat in clear, accessible English. When a person understands what’s truly allowed and what’s not, Shabbat becomes clear, manageable, and meaningful — not a vague list of “don’ts.”

Every Shabbat, we host a two-hour learning session, where the boys are actively engaged. The class is always accompanied by special foods and treats, which help draw them in, add joy and flavor to the experience, and make Shabbat something they look forward to.

 Guest Speakers, Trips & Growth

Twice a month, we host guest rabbis, educators, and motivational speakers, offering real inspiration, Torah perspectives, and emotional guidance.

Throughout the program, the boys also enjoy trips, social bonding events, and incentives, which help build motivation, friendships, and a real sense of belonging.

At the end of each several-month cycle, the participants join in a beautiful Shabbaton together with their rabbis and mentors, celebrating their personal growth and spiritual journey.

 Tools for the Future

Each student receives a clear, easy-to-understand halacha book in English, which becomes a practical tool for continued growth — even after returning home to their communities abroad.
The goal is not just to keep Shabbat while in Israel, but to give them the tools to live meaningful Jewish lives for years to come.

 Voices from the Boys

“Now I look forward to Shabbat all week.”
“I never knew Shabbat could be so enjoyable.”
“If I can disconnect from all my addictions once a week, I know I can beat them for good.”
“This was my gateway into the religious world.”
“Since I started keeping Shabbat, my entire week feels better.”

Parents also report seeing dramatic changes. Some even begin keeping Shabbat themselves after seeing the transformation in their sons.
Years later, many of these boys go on to build strong Jewish homes, grounded in Torah, warmth, and Shabbat.

 A Great Merit – A Lasting Impact

The Polak Shabbat Program is more than just a class — it’s a life-changing experience.
In a generation full of noise, confusion, and distraction, this program gives young men one day of peace, depth, and connection.
From there, they build a foundation for a life of meaning, direction, and Jewish pride.

The Polak Shabbat program Fund is a program of Rekonect, a 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Nonprofit Organization.