About JTConnect

JTConnect engages teens from across the Greater Hartford community in fun, interactive and thought-provoking educational and social experiences grounded in Jewish learning and values. JTConnect gives teens the opportunity to continue their Jewish education in compelling and meaningful ways. Together, teens examine religion, history and traditions through innovative, hands-on programming that includes classroom study, volunteer projects and special events.

JTConnect, offers yearlong learning at accessible partner locations in our community, where teens explore all aspects of Judaism in a relaxed, social atmosphere. Through our core programs: Jewish learning, Social Action opportunities, Social Events, and Teen Philanthropy; we provide Jewish teen programming that evolves with our community, and we thrive through our partnerships with local synagogues, educators, clergy, and community based organizations. Welcoming 8th–12th grade students from all levels of Jewish observance, affiliation and knowledge; JTConnect inspires teens to create their own Jewish identities and become passionate leaders and active participants in both their Jewish community and the world.


Our Mission

Our mission is to provide a rich educational experience and social community for Jewish teens to develop a strong Jewish identity, enhance their understanding and commitment to their Jewish heritage and traditions, and prepare them to lead meaningful Jewish lives.

Our Team

We are passionate, thoughtful and each bring a diverse expertise to the organization. Every educator who teaches with JTConnect develops their own interesting courses in the subject areas that interest and inspire them. JTConnect also works with student educators from local universities who gain valuable teaching experience as a members of our educator team. If you are interested in teaching with JTConnect please contact us at caroline@jtconnect.org for more information.

Caroline Poland
Executive Director
Lev Kropsky
Program Coordinator

Marcus Fink
Program Coordinator
Jason Kay
Program Coordinator
Max Beede
Program Coordinator

Our Fall 2023 Educators

Lauren Abrams

Rabbi Yitzhok Adler

Marisa Beede

Erica Bloch
Rabbi Tuvia Brander
Rabbi Andi Fliegel
Rabbi Daniel Fliegel
Bob Fishman
Rabbi Bekah Goldman

Anna MacDonald

Nick McGee

Asif Peretz

Colleen Simon

Rabbi David Small

Our Board

Christine Brouillard- President
Lauren Benthien – Chairperson
Justin Kudler – Treasurer
Rebecca Chaimovitch – Secretary

Courtney Covici
Chaim Davis
Karen Dinowitz
Kim Howe
Stacy Roos
Carolyn Sorkin
Stephen Sutton
Pauline Golder-Teen Rep
Jonathan Pincus- Teen Rep