In celebration of its 25th year in western Monmouth County, Chabad is focusing on the expansion of its programs for teenagers. “Teens in college are vulnerable,” said Rabbi Boruch Chazanow, director of Chabad of Western Monmouth County. “The teen years are crucial to establishing their Jewish identities.” In order to help local Jewish teenagers meet the challenges they will face, Chabad welcomes Rabbi Shmuel Menachem Volovik and his wife, Chaya Moushka, to infuse new energy into existing programs and introduce new ones, according to a press release. The couple, who have been commuting from Brooklyn, N.Y., since September 2011, have made their roles official by moving to Manalapan. In the case of Mrs. Volovik, the move marks a return to her roots. Known as Moushkie, she is the daughter of Tova and Rabbi Chazanow. In addition to the Hebrew school, which offers classes to children in second through seventh grades on Monday and Wednesday, Rabbi Volovik will direct youth programs.

The local Chabad House will be one of the first in the country to bring the Jewish Learning Institute (JLI), a popular series of courses for adults, to teenagers. Created specifically for teenage students, the first class will be “Life on the Line: You Make the Call,” which will focus on the value of human life; and “Secrets from Sinai,” which deals with the complexities of relationships from the teen years to marriage. Moushkie Volovik serves as volunteer program coordinator for the Ari Kraut Friendship Circle, which is celebrating its 10th year of offering activities and outings for children with special needs. As Friends at Home coordinator, she matches pairs of teen volunteers, known as special friends, with youngsters in the program. Preteens will also participate in volunteer programs and bar/bat mitzvah (good deed) projects. Also in charge of volunteer appreciation, which includes social and holiday events and parties, Moushkie is currently working on the upcoming Walk for Friends, the annual fundraiser, which will take place on April 29. For more information about Chabad youth and teen activities, call 732-972-3687.