The Young Israel of Merrick was incorporated in 1987 by a core group of 17 families. The fundamental purpose of the Shul was; "To establish, maintain, and conduct a synagogue for religious worship and prayer in accordance with the customs and traditions of the Orthodox Hebrew faith."

Some of the founding members were themselves successful products of outreach programs and had the drive to change the status quo. The new synagogue welcomed everyone, regardless of financial position, education, or background.

From 1986 through mid 1988, services, cultural events and meetings were held in private homes with facilities being rented for the High Holidays. In mid 1988, the Young Israel purchased a home for use as a Shul.

Eventually,  The Young Israel received a variance from the Town of Hempstead to convert the home into a "synagogue building". The construction was completed in a timely manner with the help of our extended Young Israel family. Our building, though small, provided adequate seating for our members and facilities for our children.

Based on our continued growth the Young Israel in 1998 once again filed with the Town of Hempstead for a variance to once again expand the size and shape of our building. The variance hearing was held in July of 2000 and we are awaiting the results. Once we receive our approvals we will be able to comfortably hold over 200 people and provide additional facilities for our members.

The Young Israel currently supports a full program of Jewish activities, including daily minyanim, weekly shiurim, education programs featuring "scholars in residence", and of course a rich youth program for our children.