Welcome to Oorah Staten Island!

The warm and inviting hub of the Jewish Staten Island community

Explore Our Programs

OUR
LOCATION

TorahSpot

Located at TorahSpot, 374 Ridgewood Avenue, Oorah Staten Island is the center for the Jewish community, offering educational and recreational programs, all completely free. Come on over!

Our Programs

Discover the timeless power of our Jewish heritage and values

Jewish Little Star Preschool
Free Full Day UPK/Kindergarten!

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ChillZone
Adult and Youth Study and Social Groups

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Weekly Torah Classes
With Rabbi Chaim Mintz

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Ask the Rabbi
Honest Answers to Candid Questions

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Our Staff

Rabbi Chaim Mintz
Founder and Director of Oorah

As the director and spiritual leader of Oorah, Rabbi Chaim Mintz’s vision of a close-knit community has become a reality. While the organization was founded in Staten Island, it has since expanded with a vast range of programs throughout the country.
Rabbi Mintz’s fifty years of experience in both education and community outreach, when coupled with his dynamic personality, make him the ultimate scholar in residence. He leads a weekly Torah class each Tuesday night, followed by a session of Ask the Rabbi, and is involved in all aspects of Oorah’s programs nationwide.

Rabbi Avrohom Biderman
TorahSpot Coordinator

Rabbi Avrohom Biderman’s relationship with Oorah dates back nearly forty years, even before TorahSpot began. He has a close relationship with Rabbi Chaim Mintz and is involved in running many of Oorah’s events and programs.

Rabbi Biderman is the Managing Editor of Artscroll/Mesorah Publications. He’s worked on hundreds of books and even authored his own, The Tabernacle, that has appeared in both Hebrew and English editions. Rabbi Biderman enjoys writing, meeting the wonderful people of the Staten Island community, and greeting TorahSpot participants. He moderates the Ask the Rabbi session each Tuesday night, and is also in charge of making the popcorn.

Mrs. Chaye Biderman
TorahSpot Coordinator

Mrs. Chaye Biderman is the other half of this indomitable couple. Having first been introduced to Oorah through her husband, she now assists with Oorah Shabbatons while also running workshops for women and programs for children.

Her patient and caring nature, as well as her creative side, give her the ability to develop friendships with people of all ages. She has been teaching Home Economics to high schoolers for over two decades, and currently teaches second grade. Mrs. Biderman can be counted on to make everyone feel comfortable and ensure the smooth running of every program.

Ms. Aliza Perles
Administrative Director of Little Star

As a Staten Island native, Aliza’s always had strong ties to the community. She’s been with Oorah since 2006 and has worked tirelessly to make TorahSpot the Jewish community hub that it is.

Aliza’s warmth and love of life, combined with her responsible and empathetic nature, make her the perfect director of Little Star Preschool.

Our History

Oorah’s programs and events enrich the lives of Jewish families throughout the US. And Staten Island is where it all began.
Oorah as we know it actually began with a distribution to Staten Island residents— Shabbat packages to enhance their weekly experience. Oorah has since expanded with dozens of other Jewish programs, such as ChillZone weekly learning sessions, TheZone summer camp, and holiday retreats.
Oorah Staten Island is now a program of the larger Oorah organization, and TorahSpot houses its many on-site programs and events.

Other Oorah Programs

The greater Oorah family offers many opportunities and programs!
By joining Oorah Staten Island, you’ll also join the larger Oorah family with all that is has to offer, from TheZone Camp to year round events and retreats.

Learn more about our other programs

Join the family!
Whatever your needs or stage in life, Oorah Staten Island wants to welcome you to the beautiful, enriching experience.