About Us

Hartford Hillel is based at the University of Hartford, and serves both U of H and Central Connecticut State University (CCSU). Here at Hillel we are committed to creating and nurturing a vibrant, pluralistic Jewish community that will enable you to express yourself and make you feel at home.

Whether your interest is fun social activities, Israel, Tikkun Olam (community service), Jewish learning and religion, athletics, art, culture, or other interests, we have something going on for you!

Every year, we connect students to their peers, community and heritage through many different venues. We offer fun events on and off campus, different interest groups, free trips to Israel and many more events.

Shabbat and Holidays

At Hillel we are committed to pluralism and we celebrate Shabbat in different traditions. Every Friday night during the academic year students celebrate Shabbat with student-led services (Reform and Conservative services). Other forms of religious expression are welcomed and encouraged. Services are followed by a kosher dinner (catered by the University of Hartford's kosher counter). We also celebrate and observe all Jewish holidays.

Social Activities & Fun

Hillel is your place to meet new friends and hang out with old ones. Start your year off with Hillel's Liftoff week, and then join us throughout the year for our annual semi-formal, our study breaks, movie nights, pool tournaments, Jewish learning activities, tikkun olam projects, and much more!

Whether you are interested in finding out how Judaism applies to your daily life, discussing various Jewish traditions, learning how to make traditional Jewish food or learning about Jewish tradition, we offer a variety of Jewish learning opportunities.

Israel

Israel is very close to our hearts at Hartford Hillel. We view Israel education and awareness as vital. We offer speakers, discussion groups and innovative programs to raise awareness and educate about Israel. Interested in going to Israel? Jewish students between 18 and 26 year old who have not been on a peer trip to Israel can apply for Birthright Israel, a free 10-day trip with many other Jewish students from our campuses and other campuses around the world. (Make sure you check out our Israel section.)

Tikkun Olam

Hartford Hillel is actively involved in Tikkun Olam (repairing the world through social justice) programs in our community. Project Heat Up Hartford raised hundreds of dollars to purchase winter gear for needy children and families during the winter. In Habitat Chaverim we work with Habitat for humanity to build houses. We hold regular can drives and volunteer at soup kitchens. We encourage you to take part and become connected in our social justice programs.

The best way to get the most up-to-date information and announcements about Jewish events and opportunities on campus is to join our mailing list and receive the weekly Hillel Happenings update. To join our mailing list, please email your request to info@hartfordhillel.org