A training camp titled “Chanukah in the Shtetl” brought together young families from the Jewish community of Almaty for a program that laster for days, from December 14 to 18. This unique event, incorporating a roleplaying game, seminars by the Shoresh Project, and psychological and educational workshops, gathered 86 people – parents with their children and youth alike. The youth also took an active part in developing and holding the camp, the focus of which was a method of immersing the attendees into a shtetl's life.

“Chanukah in the Shtetl” was opened by salutations from Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Israel to the Republic of Kazakhstan Eli Tasman and EAJC Presidium Member, President of the Mitzvah Association of Jewish Organizations of Kazakhstan Alexander Baron.

The program of the camp included an educational program by the Shoresh Project, a psychological workshop titled “Family Values in a Jewish Family,” Jewish Studies lectures, a roleplaying game, a Chanukah ball, songs, and games.

The “Chanukah in the Shtetl” project became a new colorful event in Jewish life, good for every one of its participants. The light of Chanukah and the unity of the Jewish community was felt throughout the four and a half days of the project.

Summarizing the new project, Alexander Baron told the journalists that the social group at which the project is aimed is the most important for Jewish organizations not only in Kazakhstan, but in the entire region of EAJC activity. “Without young families, such as those that participated in the 'Chanukah in the Shtetl' program, the Jewish community of Kazakhstan can have no future,” the EAJC Presidium member stressed.