# Ami Institute for Jewish Life

> Ami (עמי, "my people") is Chicago's Jewish community for gay and lesbian Jews. We create warm, joyful, halachically grounded spaces where Jewish identity and LGBTQ+ pride come together — built around Shabbat dinners, holidays, and meaningful gatherings.

Ami Institute for Jewish Life is a 501(c)(3)-aspiring grassroots community founded by Adam and Antonio after meeting on a JUF mission to Israel. Everyone is welcome at our table, regardless of where they are in their Jewish journey.

## Core Pages

- [Homepage](https://amijewishlife.org/): Mission, upcoming events, and how to join the community.
- [About Ami](https://amijewishlife.org/about-ami): Founders' story, mission, and values (Inclusivity, Community, Tradition, Joy).
- [Events](https://amijewishlife.org/events): Upcoming Shabbat dinners, holidays, social events, and discussions in Chicago.
- [Event Archive](https://amijewishlife.org/event-archive): Past events and gatherings.
- [Photo Galleries](https://amijewishlife.org/galleries): Photos from past Ami Institute for Jewish Life events.
- [FAQ](https://amijewishlife.org/faq): Community guidelines and frequently asked questions.
- [Contact](https://amijewishlife.org/contact): Get in touch with Ami Institute for Jewish Life.

## Programs

- [OUT! FOR ISRAEL 2026](https://amijewishlife.org/israel-trip): An 8-day volunteer trip to Israel for gay Jews during Tel Aviv Pride Week (June 7–15, 2026), in collaboration with Hebro.
- [Israel Trip Details](https://amijewishlife.org/israel-trip/details): Program dates, costs, FAQs, and itinerary.

## Stay Connected

- [Mailing List](https://amijewishlife.org/mailing-list): Subscribe to our newsletter.
- [Tell Me More](https://amijewishlife.org/tell-me-more): Share your interests and join the community.
- [Newsletter Archive](https://amijewishlife.org/newsletter): Past newsletters.

## Key Facts

- Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Audience: Jewish gay and lesbian community
- Tagline: Good Vibes • Good Challah • Good People
- Founders: Adam & Antonio
- Partner: Hebro (for Israel programming)