Every year, the impressive teens of Temple Beth Sholom’s USY chapter in Las Vegas run their annual Purim Carnival. This year, however, was different: they also raised $2,000 to donate to the USCJ Emergency Fire Relief Fund to support fellow USY communities in Southern California affected by devastating wildfires. It marked the first time in the carnival’s history that funds were directed to an outside cause, and the impact was deeply felt.
“I have been to multiple USY conventions in California where I made lots of friends and really felt like I was a part of something bigger,” said Chapter President Shira Mann. “After seeing the devastation that the fires in Southern California caused, it almost felt like a no-brainer to donate some of the funds of our annual Purim Carnival to help our friends that were affected. I am very proud to represent a youth group and community that came together to support an incredible cause.”
The teens’ initiative added a new layer of purpose to what is already a beloved tradition at Temple Beth Sholom. According to D.J. Sinai, Youth Director and Musical Director of the synagogue, the teen-led Purim Carnival has been a staple for at least the last ten years, and likely even longer. “The Far West region has a special place in the hearts of the TBS USY chapter,” said Sinai. “At one of our board meetings, the teens suggested that we donate a percentage of our earnings to the USCJ Emergency Fire Relief Fund, helping those chapters and families displaced.”
The Purim Carnival is one of the biggest events of the year, planned and executed entirely by the synagogue’s USY youth group. The USY Board handles logistics, activities, and games, while volunteers from both USY and Kadima (the synagogue’s Gesher chapter for middle schoolers) help run booths, serve food, and oversee bounce houses and other attractions. The teens also take charge of soliciting donations from families and businesses, a major factor in the event’s fundraising success.
Traditionally, proceeds from the carnival support their own chapter, ensuring that no teen is ever turned away from an event due to financial constraints. This year, the decision to share funds with communities in crisis resonated throughout the Las Vegas Valley, drawing more support than ever. Promoting the carnival as a fundraiser for fire relief helped galvanize donors and attendees alike, all eager to be part of something meaningful.
In the end, the teens did more than throw a fun and festive celebration—they mobilized their community, demonstrated compassion, and made a real difference. Their generosity and leadership are a shining example of what youth empowerment can look like in action.
