Orthodox Youth Not Immune To High Risk Lifestyles

Many teenage boys growing up in Los Angeles’ Orthodox Jewish community are faced with overwhelming struggles that may lead to self-destructive patterns. In programs like Aleinu’s Issues Anonymous, these boys are given the opportunity to channel their energy into productive and creative outlets. Community member, Joel Bess, a former troubled youth himself, meets weekly with boys to hold discussions in a safe environment. Other programs catering to at-risk youth in the community include JETS – Jewish Educational Trade School, and Aish Tamid.

JETS, a vocational boarding school for boys who don’t fit into the mold of yeshiva academics, melds high school equivalency and Torah studies with chosen trade skills for teens who can use their education to pursue their careers. Despite cultural prejudices that eschew employment in fields like carpentry or plumbing, the school gives the boys the hope of success.

Rabbi Avi Leibovic is another leader who has developed organizations to welcome and support wayward teen boys- Aish Tamid, in its 6th year of offering informative programs to both teens and their parents, and Pardes/Plan B, where religious and state education is enhanced with outdoor adventure trips. With such positive choices available to them, these young men can find help and inspiration to turn around their lapsed lives.

Since the article has been written – Issues Anonymous has become a school program often requested by Rabbis and Principals as a mandatory workshop for matriculating students, and their parents.