Yeshivas Hashluchim, an exclusive Semicha program for post-Shlichus Bochurim, is concluding its academic year on a high note. Founded by Rabbi Shmuel Plotkin and now entering its ninth year, Yeshivas Hashluchim remains an outstanding program for Bochurim seeking high-level Semicha training while enhancing their Shlichus skills during non-study hours.
Rabbi Plotkin envisioned a yeshiva where this specific age group could not only focus on personal growth and receive top-tier Semicha education but also engage with the community. The program partners with local Shluchim to enable Bochurim to teach and inspire community members through one-on-one learning and various other activities.
After spending valuable time at various host Chabad Houses in NYC, including Chabad of Chelsea with Rabbi Naftoli Rotenstreich and Chabad of Hamilton Heights with Rabbi Yudi Shmotkin, Yeshivas Hashluchim has now established itself firmly in its fifth year at Chabad of the West Side under the leadership of Rabbi Shlomo Kugel.
The Bochurim reside in beautifully renovated apartments provided by Chabad of the West Side. The Yeshiva generously covers all their basic necessities, including food. Mornings begin under the guidance of Rabbi Yanky Blasberg, the Menahel and morning Maggid Shiur. Besides preparing a curriculum of Chassidus and additional Semicha topics, Rabbi Blasberg also attends to the Bochurim’s material needs.
After lunch, the Bochurim are joined by their main Magid Shiur, Rabbi Yossi Barber. Drawing on his extensive knowledge and experience, Rabbi Barber guides the students through the complexities of Semicha. His nearly daily Shiurim, delivered clearly and systematically, go beyond the basic requirements of Semicha, introducing many of the Poskim from across the Halachic spectrum. This thorough approach ensures that the learning is comprehensive and applicable to Halacha L’maaseh. Thanks to his meticulously planned schedule, the Bochurim complete their Semicha within the year while maintaining an unparalleled level of learning.
In the evenings and on weekends, the Bochurim engage with community members at various Chabad centers on the Upper West Side, learning and Farbrenging together.
“The Yeshiva Bochurim are an absolute pleasure; they infuse the community with youthful energy and profound insights. My favorite part of the week is learning with my Chavrusa on Tuesday nights,” says a community member.
To date, Yeshivas Hashluchim has ordained over 60 rabbis from around the world, including Australia, Italy, Ukraine, France, England, and across the US.
For the past two years, Chabad of the West Side has leased a new storefront for their Young Leadership Shabbos Minyan, led by Rabbis Yisrael and Mendel Kugel. During the week, half the space serves as a Beis Medrash and Shul where the Bochurim learn, and the other half is an upscale kosher café managed by the renowned Patis Bakery. This space, situated in the heart of the Upper West Side, immerses the Bochurim in the community, with breakfast and lunch provided by the café.
As the Bochurim prepare for their final Semicha tests, the community eagerly anticipates the Chag Hasmicha, which will take place on Sunday, 17 Sivan – June 23rd.
For inquiries about the Yeshiva, please email Rabbi Yanky Blasberg at yeshivashashluchim@gmail.com.
