ShinShinim
Each year, we welcome two young Israelis to the Paul Penna DJDS community through a partnership with UJA Federation and The First Narayever Congregation.
Our ShinShinim are Israeli high school graduates who defer army service for a year of service in Jewish communities abroad. They bring contemporary Israel to life through weekly classroom visits, engaging activities and special programs.
Through these meaningful relationships, our students experience Israel through the eyes of Israeli teens, while our ShinShinim gain a deeper understanding of Jewish life in Toronto. The connections often continue long after their year with us ends.
Community Partners
The Miles Nadal Jewish Community Centre is a vibrant focal point of Toronto’s downtown. In addition to being the bricks and mortar in which we are housed, it provides fitness and social activities for our school’s children and their families. We enjoy fantastic access to the MNjcc’s gymnasium, fitness centre, pool, chapel, and theatre. Our collaborative programs with the Thomas & Marjorie Schwartz Preschool enrich our school’s curriculum and sense of community. In addition, our partnership helps us enjoy and take advantage of the MNjcc’s extra-curricular activities and programming, including their aftercare and ‘schools out’ programs.
The Downtown Jewish Community Council brings together over 45 downtown Jewish institutions, including schools, youth groups, prayer communities, congregations, social service agencies, and cultural and recreational programs.
PJ Library sends free Jewish children’s books to families across the world every month. We know that something magical happens when parents sit down together to read with their children. PJ Library shares Jewish stories that can help your family talk together about values and traditions that are important to you. Paul Penna DJDS is proud and excited to have PJ Library as a partner and major supporter of our Groove series of events.
One of the world’s most distinguished museums of natural history and world culture, the Royal Ontario Museum’s permanent and temporary exhibits allow us to explore the global intertwined experience of natural science, civilization and humanity through its collections and programs. Due to the museum’s proximity to our school, our students are able to access this world class facility throughout the year.
First Narayever Congregation is a warm and welcoming Jewish traditional egalitarian synagogue located a short walk from our school. Our classes visit their sukkah every year and we often co-partner on educational community events celebrating Jewish life in the downtown core.