Nov 1, 2005 -- Students and alumni of Yeshiva University and its affiliated Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS) and the new Center for the Jewish Future enriched the holiday celebrations of Shemini Atseret and Simchat Torah in more than 80 Jewish communities around the world. As part of the annual Blanche Schreiber Torah Tours, groups of four to eight men and women visit Orthodox congregations to infuse ruach (Jewish spirit and passion) into the holiday celebrations. This year, more than 400 students and alumni chose to spend the holidays away from their families to sing, dance, and share Torah ideas with members of other Jewish communities from Irvine, CA, to Milwaukee, WI. They hosted activities for youth and delivered lectures on Jewish-themed topics. The Center for the Jewish Future (CJF) works with YU’s colleges, schools, and affiliates to shape programs that will train Jewish lay and professional leadership, develop initiatives and strengthen existing ones, as well as deliver services to its students and the broader Jewish communities. “This program engages our student body in what they do best: bringing energy and enthusiasm into communities around the world,” said Rabbi Kenneth Brander, CJF dean. “It is yet another example of how Yeshiva University is bringing wisdom to life.” Torah Tours sponsors more than 125 programs around the world and during the year, including other holidays, winter and summer breaks. To participate in future Tours contact CJF at 212-960-0041.