In 2003, Madraigos was established by Rabbi Dov Silver with a deep desire to service the youth in our community who were being overlooked. At that time, teenagers were without an address and without advocacy to help them ‘find themselves’ in our turbulent world. Working with these precious kids one on one and in group settings from the Rabbi Silver’s living room, spiritual classes and therapeutic groups were offered to help them face their individual challenges.In 2004, Rabbi Silver along with the help of very committed community members, joined together and arranged to rent a space for a more permanent address where the youth could come freely. A spacious recreation center was created which served as a ‘home away from home’ for many teens. It was a place where young people could come and feel part of a larger group focused on supporting one another without judgmental attitudes.In 2006, Madraigos began receiving calls on a constant basis from parents, school principals and teachers looking for advice on how to best direct their youth in need. Madraigos responded by forming a team of professionals and staff, as well as volunteers, to offer guidance and support every step of the way. Eventually, the reputation grew to the point that Madraigos received calls for help from the Five Boroughs of New York and beyond.In 2008,Madraigos launched their extremely successful Rosh Hashana Retreat. The Retreat brings the disenfranchised out of their element, providing a spiritually uplifting experience in a hotel in a beautiful, scenic location. Families join our members for a warm holiday experience enhanced by stimulating lectures and gourmet cuisine. It is the perfect recipe for an inspirational Rosh Hashana.Madraigos also realized the pressing need for support groups for both parents and our members. In response, they engaged professional facilitators who were best qualified to effectively lead these groups. The positive response proved that we had successfully met a strong need in the community.In 2009, the Five Towns community rallied behind the organization to secure the funds to purchase a facility where many more of our area’s youth could be accommodated. Madraigos was able to offer nightly programming for youth; boys and girls on separate nights of the week. In addition, there was ample office space to continue our crisis intervention work with professional assessments, referrals, and case management.As Madraigos’ involvement in the community grew, it became clear that there was a growing need to help the younger siblings of our membership. When a family is in crisis, it is common that the needs of the children without issues are the last to be addressed. Therefore, support groups to support the younger siblings were started.In 2010, Madraigos recognized the strong need for prevention services in the community. So, the Madraigos team went into action and developed the School Based Services Program. Currently, Madraigos is working with many local schools, placing our professional staff and social work interns directly in the schools to support the schools in various ways. The interns work with members, fostering close professional relationships through our nightly “Lounge” program, crisis intervention office, and School Based Services Program. Due to the success of the School Based Services Program, Madraigos has developed a very strong partnership with New York University, Long Island University, Yeshiva University, and Adelphi, offering the highest quality supervision and guidance for their social work students.In 2011, Community Lecture Series was launched where professionals educate the community on a wide range of topics helping parents raise and educate their children.In 2012, Madraigos’ programs and services are a vital life-saving force within the community. Always focused on better serving youth, Madraigos is eager to help other programs and communities as the need arises.