Eric Arthur Fernandez

Australian Rabbi Moshe Feiglin came to the U.S. twelve years ago with a vision for a place where young men with troubled backgrounds could find camaraderie and support amongst peers. In 2003, his vision became a reality as A.L.I.Y.A. (Alternative Learning Institute for Young Adults) took shape in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.

Since then, A.L.I.Y.A. has provided spiritual, educational, and emotional support to male youth in the Crown Heights Hasidic community.

Many of the young men who are members of A.L.I.Y.A. rely on Rabbi Feiglin’s guidance. Some members struggle with mental, emotional, or familial issues, substance abuse problems, or religious uncertainty.

Through shared fundamental principles rooted in love, respect, and acceptance, A.L.I.Y.A.’s Rabbis continue to provide guidance to Hasidic youth in Crown Heights.

I spent two evenings at A.L.I.Y.A., including one Fabringen, a traditional gathering for men in a Chabad Synagogue that happens on Thursday evenings.