KU Chabad, in partnership with Chabad YoungKC, a project of Chabad on the Plaza, hosted a “Mega Purim Party” for young Jewish professionals in Kansas City.
The event brought together young Jews from the Kansas City area, among them many Jayhawks who attended KU Chabad. The event featured music, festive costumes and a spirited reading of the Megillah.
Alumni from various graduating classes reunited to celebrate the holiday with kosher food, including classic Purim treats like hamantaschen.
“Purim is all about bringing people together, celebrating our Jewish pride and spreading joy,” said Rabbi Zalman and Nechama Tiechtel, co-directors of KU Chabad. “Seeing so many familiar faces from different graduating years come together was truly special.”
Beyond the entertainment, the event also emphasized highlighting the power of Jewish resilience, unity and the importance of giving back. Many attendees participated in the mitzvot of the holiday, including exchanging mishloach manot (Purim gift baskets) and giving charity to support those in need.
“I’m incredibly thankful to KU Chabad and ChabadYoungKC for the chance to reconnect with old friends at the KC Purim party,” said Dr. Joel Gutovitz, KU Class of 2015. “It was such a blessing to catch up with the community that doubled as my family away from home during my time at KU. The generosity and warmth of KU Chabad are still as impactful as ever, and it was clear at this event how they’ve touched all of us in ways that last long after we leave college.”
KU Chabad’s mission includes shaping Jewish leaders for the future. Events like these are held to ensure that alumni remain engaged, connected and inspired after graduation. By continuing to provide opportunities for Jewish young professionals to come together, KU Chabad works to foster lifelong relationships and commitment to Jewish values, strengthening the Jewish future in Kansas City and beyond.
More KU Chabad alumni gatherings are in the works with the intention of keeping their Jewish connections strong.
“Purim tells the story of how the Jews overcame adversity and hatred, and being able to celebrate today shows that we, as a people, will continue to thrive no matter who tries to stop us,” said Michael Portman, KU Class of 2016, who is a leader at ChabadYoungKC and played a key role in planning this event. “Celebrating with fellow alumni and the KC Jewish community is a powerful reminder that we remain strong and persevere with our brothers and sisters by our sides.”
This Purim celebration was made possible by the generosity of donors including local philanthropists Joe Loeffler and Marc and Alicia Kulick.