Special to the Ledger

Rabbi Yehuda and Chaya Matusof

WEST HARTFORD – Rabbi Yehuda and Chaya Matusof have been appointed youth directors of Chabad House of Greater Hartford located in West Hartford, it was announced recently by Chabad House director Rabbi Joseph Gopin. “We are very excited to welcome the Matusofs to our community,” said Gopin.

“Chabad has always put a strong emphasis on educating the youth. This will take things to a whole new level.”

The Matusofs intend to hit the ground running. “Our first order of business is Camp Gan Izzy,” said Rabbi Matusof, referring to Chabad’s popular summer camp. “We intend to build on Gan Izzy’s record of success, ensuring that the children have an awesome and meaningful summer.”

Both Matusofs come to this position with extensive experience in the areas of education and camping. Chaya Matusof is a master teacher, specializing in the educational approach of Reggio Emelia. “I strongly believe that we must harness the natural curiosity of each child. We must maximize his or her potential fully,” she says.

In addition to leading creative educational programs in several states throughout the U.S., Yehuda Matusof has coordinated activities in several countries, including Cuba , Germany, Japan, and Russia. Trained at the National Camping School led by the Boy Scouts of America, he has developed multiple curriculums designed to hone the skill sets of individual children through hands-on activities.

In addition to the summer program, the Matusofs will be charged with increasing Chabad’s offerings for youth throughout the year.

“We know that there are many children who can benefit from a high quality, Jewish educational experience,” says Rabbi Gopin. “We intend to reach a growing number in the coming years.”