USY stands for United Synagogue Youth, and it is the youth group associated with the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. USY is divided into three layers: chapter, regional, and international USY. Our chapter is affiliated with Congregation B’nai Amoona. We are part of the EMTZA region, which is composed of chapters from all over the Midwest (including Colorado, Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska). The third layer, international USY, is made up of all the regions from across the United States and Canada. In total, there are seventeen regions. USY is an organization for Jewish teens across the country to meet each other, have Jewish experiences together, and make lifelong friendships.

As 2008-2009 Emtza Region Chapter of the Year, BAUSY offers a unique opportunity for teens from around the area to participate in exciting and interesting activities with other Jewish teens. We offer varied programming that incorporates all areas of USY: Israel Affairs, Religion, Education, Social Action, and Tikun Olam. Our award-winning programs range from lounge and theme nights to community service opportunities, to pool parties, educational programs and religious services. In addition to weekly programming, we periodically join the other St. Louis USY chapters for Tri-Chapter events, as well as for regional conventions, which are held in cities around the Emtza region.  Anyone and everyone in 9th – 12th grades can participate in BAUSY programs and new members are always welcome!

In addition to BAUSY, we also offer programming for 5th – 8th graders. Atid Amoona, our youth group for 5th and 6th graders, meets approximately 4 times a year, and gives kids a taste of what Jewish youth groups are all about. 7th and 8th graders participate in Kadima, which meets about monthly throughout the school year. Kadima programs are planned by the BAUSY Executive Board, so activities are fun, engaging, and encourage members to join USY when they enter 9th grade.

We encourage you to check us out, participate in the amazing experience that is BAUSY, and “come join the bunch!”