CTeen Launches Several New Programs

CTeen directors Rabbi Dovid and Talya Goldshmidt are pleased with the momentum and progress of their multi-focused efforts.

Rabbi Goldshmidt said, “This is a watershed year for us in a new home, with new programs, and new momentum resulting in real growth and impact.”

Amid a climate where Jewish identity is under pressure, CTeen of Atlanta, a free-standing teen organization under Chabad of Georgia, offers hundreds of teens a vibrant space to connect, lead, and thrive. Now with the launch of two new programs and the acquisition of a dedicated teen center, CTeen is cementing its place as a positive force in Atlanta Jewish teen life.

The new CTeen Center, in the Goldshmidt’s home in Sandy Springs, now has an updated configuration where teens enter through their own entrance to the terrace level which serves as a dedicated teen lounge, complete with a game room, music room, classrooms, and small gym. The main floor of the home is used for classes, Shabbat dinners, and leadership programs.

Rabbi Goldshmidt stated, “We believe Judaism doesn’t just belong in the synagogue. It’s something we live and celebrate in our home — in our day-to-day, mundane, life. That’s the environment we want our teens to experience. The result has been a warm, welcoming space where Jewish teens feel truly at home — often staying long after programs end to talk, laugh, or ask the questions they’re carrying with them through high school and life.”

CTeen of Atlanta launched two new flagship programs this year, each met with enthusiastic participation. The Solomon Leadership Program is a fellowship for high school juniors and seniors that combines Jewish values-based education with real-world mentorship. At bi-weekly sessions, teen fellows hear from successful Jewish leaders and are paired with a mentor to help guide them through the “Eight Pillars of Leadership.”

Sharon, whose daughter, Emmy Hanna, a recent Riverwood High graduate who joined the program, shared, “The program helped my daughter find her voice, build confidence, and develop a strong sense of purpose.”

Next, the Bat Mitzvah Club offers a joyful and meaningful approach to coming-of-age issues for sixth- and seventh-grade girls. Through weekly sessions filled with learning, creativity, and friendship, participants deepen their Jewish identity and self-confidence.

Taryn Solomon, whose daughters, Courtney and Sienna, rising seventh graders at The Epstein School, shared, “Our daughters’ minds were expanded and souls nourished through this enriching program, where they developed lifelong friendships.”

“These girls didn’t just prepare for a ceremony — they grew into proud, young Jewish women,” added co-director Talya Goldshmidt.

In addition to these new initiatives, CTeen continues to grow its core programs, including the nationally accredited CTeen U college-credit course, monthly Shabbat meals, and much-needed Teen Mental Health First Aid classes in loving memory of Manny Pargman, an 18-year-old student who took his own life in 2024 The organization has engaged more than 250 Jewish teens, representing 30 different schools from across Atlanta.

CTeen U also stood out this year for its ability to blend academic depth with real-world relevance. “You can ask him anything, and every student is engaged, which makes the discussions even better,” said Rafael Bejar, a rising junior at Pace Academy, about Rabbi Goldshmidt’s CTeen U class. Supporting this momentum is the 12-member CTeen Teen Leadership Board, an involved group of students who help shape programming, lead outreach, and model Jewish pride for their peers.

At the basis of CTeen’s success is its relationship-based approach mentorship model with the Goldshmidts’ who strive to ensure that teens feel “seen, valued, and empowered” to grow as proud Jews and compassionate leaders.

A recent Weber School graduate, Ari Gordon, said, “I feel so grateful to see how CTeen brings Jewish teens across Atlanta a newfound passion and pride for their Jewish identity. Despite the struggles of antisemitism and isolation that many teens have experienced, CTeen offers a meaningful community and a sense of belonging.”

Talya Goldshmidt concluded, “Our goal is simple but powerful. We want to inspire every Atlanta Jewish teen to feel proud of their heritage and be in a position to lead with confidence. We are shaping the future one teen at a time.”