FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Community Engagement Summit
May 29–31, 2026 | Whistler, BC
What is the Community Engagement Summit?
The Community Engagement Summit is a province-wide gathering bringing together Jews of all ages and walks of life from across British Columbia for a shared weekend of connection, learning, and community. The weekend is designed as an immersive experience that balances thoughtful programming, meaningful conversation, time in nature, and opportunities to connect with one another at a comfortable, intentional pace.
Who is the Summit for?
The Community Engagement Summit is open to members of the Jewish community of all ages and backgrounds across British Columbia who are interested in participating, strengthening or leading Jewish communities. Some participants are deeply involved in Jewish community life, while others are simply looking for a meaningful way to connect. No specific role, level of involvement, or prior experience is required.
When and where does the Summit take place?
The Summit will take place from Friday, May 29 to Sunday, May 31, 2026, in Whistler, British Columbia. Additional details about accommodations, transportation, and arrival times will be shared closer to the event.
What registration options are available?
Registration options include both full-weekend registration and a limited number of Summit Only Passes for those who do not require accommodation. The Summit Only Pass still requires you to attend the full three days.
What is included with full-weekend registration?
Full-weekend registration includes accommodations and all meals for the duration of the Summit and shuttle services when relevant, from arrival on Friday through lunch on Sunday, as well as access to all Summit programming and experiences.
What is included with a Summit Only Pass?
A Summit Only Pass includes access to Summit programming, meals and shuttles, but Summit Only Passes do not include accommodations.
How do I get to Whistler?
Transportation details within Whistler, including parking and shuttle options, will be shared closer to the event. Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel to and from Whistler, but we are happy to help connect participants coming from the same areas to share rides—we will be reaching out soon with information to arrange these options. Travel subsidies of up to 100% are also available for those who need assistance getting to Whistler; no one should miss the Summit due to cost. See the next question for more information on that.
How much does the Summit cost?
Early bird registration available until March 31:
• Individual: $360
• Child: $180
• Family (2 adults and 2 children*): $900
• Summit Only Pass (no accommodation): $120
*Additional adults or children will need to purchase additional tickets
Regular registration available April 1 – April 10:
• Individual: $432
• Child: $216
• Family (2 adults and 2 children*): $1,080
• Summit Only Pass (no accommodation): $180
* Additional adults or children will need to purchase additional tickets
Child registration covers the full cost of meals, supervised childcare, and age-appropriate programming throughout the weekend, allowing parents and caregivers to participate fully in the Summit experience.
How was the cost calculated, and are subsidies available?
The registration fee has been set to enable accessible participation for individuals and families, but it does not cover the full cost of the Summit. The difference is generously supported by donors who are committed to bringing Jewish communities from across the province together. If you are in a position to do so, please consider making a donation. Your contribution helps offset Summit costs and enables others to attend. Cost should never be a barrier to participation. Earmarked funds are available for those who need financial assistance, and travel subsidies of up to 100% are offered for participants who require support getting to Whistler. Please contact regionalcommunities@jewishvancouver.com if you would like to request financial or travel assistance.
Is childcare available?
Yes. Comprehensive childcare and age-appropriate programming will be available throughout the weekend for children and youth of all ages, allowing parents and caregivers to participate fully in the Summit. The cost of childcare is included in your child’s registration.
What kind of programming is offered for children and youth?
Children’s and youth programming is designed to be developmentally appropriate, engaging, and well supported:
Ages 0–5:
Childminding will be provided in a safe, supervised environment focused on care, play, and comfort.
Primary and intermediate ages:
Programming will be led by Shinshinim* on Saturday, offering engaging, social, and age-appropriate activities. On Sunday, programming will include a combination of Whistler Athletes Legacy activities and STEM-based classes, providing a mix of movement, creativity, and learning.
* Shinshinim are young Israeli cultural ambassadors who spend a year living in Jewish communities around the world. Recently graduated from high school and before beginning their military or national service, they share Israeli culture, language, and daily life through education, programming, and relationship-building. In our community, Shinshinim are highly regarded and play valued roles in Jewish day schools and Hebrew supplemental schools, where they bring energy, authenticity, and a direct, people-to-people connection to Israel.
Teens:
Teen programming will be based at the Whistler Teen Centre, where teens will have access to excellent facilities and a range of fun, engaging activities in a dedicated youth space.
Will children and teens be supervised at all times?
Yes. All children’s and youth programming will be supervised by trained staff and facilitators. Additional details about schedules, locations, and daily flow will be shared closer to the Summit.
Do I need to participate in all sessions?
The Summit is designed as a shared experience, and participants are expected to take part in all sessions, as being present together is foundational to building meaningful community. While the schedule intentionally offers choice and flexibility—with options between sessions that allow participants to select experiences that feel most meaningful— the gathering relies on collective participation. The schedule also includes time for rest and exploration. The registration fee does not cover the full cost of the Summit; this experience is made possible through the generosity of our donors, who support it with the expectation that participants will engage actively and fully. This is not a leisure weekend in Whistler, but a community gathering that depends on presence, intention, and shared commitment.
What kind of programming can adults expect?
Programming includes engaging speakers, plenary sessions, and small-group conversations, with a strong emphasis on learning from fellow participants from across British Columbia. Participants will explore what Jewish Federation and its local, national, and international partners can offer them and their communities—from opportunities for children and youth, summer camps, and community life, to leadership pathways, critical social services, advocacy, combating antisemitism, and meaningful connections with Israel and world Jewry. Time in nature, opportunities for movement, and moments of creativity and joy are woven throughout the weekend.
How does the Summit accommodate different levels of Jewish observance?
The Summit is thoughtfully scheduled to enable participation from Jews with a wide range of observance and practice. There is no requirement to take part in any religious activities, and participants are welcome to engage in ways that feel comfortable and meaningful to them. The weekend will include shared Shabbat culture and atmosphere, such as communal moments and meals, designed to be accessible and welcoming regardless of background or practice. All meals will be kosher, and the program is Shabbat-friendly in its structure and timing. To respect Shabbat observance, shuttle transportation will not operate between the hotel and the conference location during Shabbat; participants who wish to move between locations may walk (approximately 45 minutes, flat and scenic) or use their own transportation, though there is no need to go back and forth during Shabbat.
What accommodations are being used?
Participants with full-weekend registration will stay in various hotels in Whistler Village. Specific lodging details will be shared after registration.
What should I bring?
Closer to the Summit, participants will receive a detailed “What to Expect” guide. In general, we recommend comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear for time outdoors, and anything you need to feel at ease for a weekend away.
What if I have dietary needs or accessibility requirements?
Dietary needs and accessibility information will be collected during registration. We are committed to making the Summit as accessible and inclusive as possible and encourage participants to share their needs with us.
Are there opportunities to volunteer during the Summit?
Yes. The Community Engagement Summit is made possible through a combination of professional staff, partners, and community volunteers, and we welcome participants who would like to contribute their time and skills. Volunteer opportunities may include support during setup and takedown, assistance with registration and wayfinding, and helping during certain parts of the Summit experience. Volunteering is entirely optional and designed to fit around participation in the Summit programming. If you are interested in volunteering, you will be able to indicate this during registration, and our team will follow up with more information closer to the event.
Who can I contact with questions?
If you have questions before or after registering, please contact regionalcommunities@jewishvancouver.com.