Meet the family behind Chabad at the University of Nevada, Reno

The University's Chabad offers support to the Jewish community on campus

Group of people sitting around a dinner table. Some of the men are wearing white Yamakas on their heads.

Meet the family behind Chabad at the University of Nevada, Reno

The University's Chabad offers support to the Jewish community on campus

Group of people sitting around a dinner table. Some of the men are wearing white Yamakas on their heads.

The University’s Chabad is a non-profit organization managed by Rabbi Dani and his family and various student leaders from around campus.

“The University has an incredibly vibrant Jewish community, students from all backgrounds are proud to call themselves Jews at the University. We are extremely thankful to the entire staff here from President Sandoval and every campus organization like the Associated Students of the University of Nevada and everyone else for being such incredible supporters, partners and advocates for the Jewish community at the University,” Rabbi Dani said.

“We left the comfort of our Jewish community to come here to Reno and service students and people with the understanding that we’re not looking for recognition or money. We’re just looking to serve the community,” Rabbi Dani said.

Similar to other Chabads around the globe, Chabad at the University does not charge membership fees for the community that it serves.

"Chabad at the University of Nevada, Reno is the same thing and we're here just to be able to provide, help out and assist the Jewish community here at the University,” Rabbi Dani said.

Rabbi Dani and his family have opened their home for students and other members of the Jewish community to make it easier to fulfill their mission of providing a welcoming environment for all people, but especially Jewish people, regardless of their affiliation or background.

“The way we make students at the University part of our priority is that we have an open door policy, so people can come in [to our home] and they’re always welcome, there’s always a spot for them at the table,” Rabbi Dani said. “We call ourselves the Jewish Heart of Campus and that’s because if anyone ever needs anything at any time, they know that they can turn to us and always be accepted. Our philosophy is very strongly based on loving every person unconditionally.”

Chabad is committed to meeting the unique needs of every single student and as such, has participated in fraternity and sorority events to bring Chabad directly to students.

“For people who don’t know about us or how to get involved with the Jewish community, we’d love for you to reach out! We are custom made for each person’s needs, from offering Jewish educational programs to supporting University students in studying for their exams, we really have everything,” Rabbi Dani said.

As the semester comes to an end, Chabad has various events on their calendar for all people in the community to join.

“Our events basically go together. We have social events that are also connected with Jewish practices, like our Friday night Shabbat dinners. For Jewish Heritage Month, we are having our Black Tie Shabbat Dinner on Friday, May 12. There will be elegant food and like always, we’re encouraging everyone to join us for that,” Rabbi Dani said.

Stay tuned for additional information about how to donate, get involved and to keep up with upcoming events on the Chabad website’s calendar.