Grand Opening of New $18M Jewish Youth Center in Toronto

After years of anticipation and hard work, the Jewish Youth Network (JYN) in Toronto has officially opened the doors to its vibrant and inclusive new world class center, the Robbins Family Campus. Full Story, Photos, Video

November 21, 2024 – 20 Heshvan 5785

By COLlive staff

After years of anticipation and hard work, the Jewish Youth Network (JYN) has officially opened the doors to its vibrant and inclusive new home, the Robbins Family Campus in Toronto, Ontario.

This groundbreaking new space promises to be a hub of Jewish culture, education, and community for young people, providing them with the tools they need to thrive—both as individuals and as leaders of tomorrow.

The campus offers a wealth of activities and services, and also provides vital resources like career guidance and mental health counseling, recognizing the holistic needs of today’s youth. Designed to be a welcoming, inclusive environment, the building’s modern architecture is enhanced by elements that tell the story of the Jewish people—its history, culture, and values. Multi-colored stairwells adorned with graphics of historical Jewish milestones invite students to connect with the rich narrative of their heritage as they walk through the halls.

“The road has been long, but we are home at last!” said Rabbi Shmuli Nachlas, who directs JYN along with his wife, Chani. “An extraordinary, vibrant, and inclusive home for all our community youth. In this hub of Jewish synergy, our kids will learn and mentor; study and play; question and grow; interact and introspect. And, when ready to lead, they will show us the way!

“That’s why there is no greater investment than in the youth—especially in these challenging times. At the Jewish Youth Network–Robbins Family Campus, nothing has been spared to engage the next generation and strengthen their collective Jewish identity while recognizing individual diversity,” Nachlas says.

The new Centre offers almost every amenity possible—from sports to music, education to art, from socializing to food options, in addition to career guidance and mental health counseling. All in the most conducive and welcoming state-of-the-art environment possible, boasting an ultra-sophisticated basketball court, fully-equipped music room, art room, event space, student lounge with multiple HD screens, and private study pods. Not to mention the wildly popular “tefillin corner” and trendy Manna Cafe.

The grand opening event was a historic moment, attended by over 1,000 people, including dignitaries such as Premier Doug Ford, Councillor Karen Cilevitz, and Mayor David West of Richmond Hill, who also addressed the audience along with MP Melissa Lantsman. Additional attendees included MPP Laura Smith, Councillors Joe DiPaola and Gila Martow, as well as Daisy Wai, MPP.

The highlight of the event was the ribbon-cutting ceremony, where Mr. Larry Robbins, the lead supporter, was honored to cut the ribbon alongside his children Monty, Denise, and Eliezer, marking the culmination of years of dedication and vision.

Greetings were also delivered by Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, representing Chabad World Headquarters, Rabbi Zalman Aaron Grossbaum, Executive Director and Head Shliach of Chabad of Southern Ontario, and Rabbi Yosef Gansburg, Director of Education at Chabad of Southern Ontario. Their words highlighted the significance of this momentous occasion and the impact the campus will have on the next generation.

This landmark structure, crafted from the talents of some of the foremost designers and architects in the construction industry, chronicles the heart and soul of the Jewish people within its very walls. Every detail tells a tale of the Jewish story. Every hallway conveys an axiom of Jewish faith and fortitude. The stairwells outline, in multi-color graphics and dates, the history of the Jewish people from time immemorial. The overall immersive experience aims to achieve one goal: to instill in the hearts of our budding youth a taste of Jewish affiliation and a love for their heritage.

A unique feature of this campus–to the exclusion of all else–is the students’ signatures on virtually every detail of the building. JYN teens and ambassadors were consulted during the decision-making process, and their feedback was incorporated wherever possible. “Their constant input was a discerning factor throughout the construction, because it is their home,” says Rabbi Nachlas.

The entire project, with a cost exceeding $18 million, is a meticulous collaboration of sagely guidance, laborious research, and professional expertise. It was brought to life as the brainchild of JYN Executive Director, Rabbi Shmuli and Chani Nachlas.

“With clear blessings from the Lubavitcher Rebbe and endless hours—nay, years—of dedicated, relentless work, we believe we have succeeded in constructing an edifice of bricks and mortar infused with a life of its own,” Rabbi Nachlas says proudly. “This center is a vision realized. Truly, it would be a challenge to find a similar facility of this caliber anywhere in the world.”

“The visionary and lead supporter behind this incredible structure is a man of integrity, humility, and sagely wisdom,” says Nachlas. “Together with Monty, Denise, Eliezer, and the Robbins family, their legacy will be everlasting.”

“If I can contribute to the continuity of the Jewish people by helping the younger generation find their way together, mingle together, and ultimately set up future Jewish homes and families, I will have made my mark,” says Mr. Larry Robbins.

To learn more about the Jewish Youth Network visit www.jewishyouth.ca
To book a tour or inquire about JYN programs, please call the office at 905-889-7582, or email judy@jewishyouth.ca.