JLI Wraps Up Six Impactful Days at National Jewish Retreat

Shluchim and community members reflect on new perspectives and deeper connections gained over six days at JLI’s Retreat in Palm Desert, California. 

The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute wrapped up its largest-ever National Jewish Retreat, held in the luxurious JW Marriott Resort and Spa in Palm Desert, California. Over 1,200 participants from all walks of life gathered for six transformative days of Jewish learning, enrichment, and connection.

Rabbi Yosef Levin arrived at the Retreat with seven members of his Chabad of Greater South Bay (Palo Alto, California) community. “The program itself was incredible,” he says. “But the impact will last my community a lifetime; they’ve gained a stronger connection to Yiddishkeit.”

This year’s Retreat, hosted on the sprawling 450-acre resort, featured an enriching program with over 120 workshops led by 70 presenters, thought leaders, authors, and artists.

Driving home from the Retreat, Rabbi Dovber Berkowitz of Chabad of the Delta in Brentwood, California, heard from community members deeply touched by the experience. “Thank you for inviting me to the Retreat,” one community member wrote, before adding, “Thank you for turning me into a Chasid.”

Reflecting on six days of learning, connection, community, and laughter, Wendy Levenson of Agoura Hills, California, succinctly summed up her experience: “It was the best Retreat I’ve been to. It inspired me, informed me, and enlightened me.”