This unique program brings Jewish teens together for the purpose of learning about charitable giving and philanthropy, resulting in the group’s allocation of funds to organizations in need. To date, more than 230 participants have allocated $46,000 to local and Israel-based agencies as a result of this program.
Jewish Teen Philanthropy programs, such as H.O.P.E. (Helping Organizations Provide Essentials) are so much more than teaching youth about giving. It’s a wonderful way for students to gain leadership skills, work on their teambuilding and come together as one cohesive unit. Additionally, the organizations that have benefited from these programs are not only appreciative, but also continually update the group on how the money they donated has impacted those they serve.
Programs consist of a cohort who function as a board to allocate money to support local agencies. The group meets for 10 sessions over the course of several months, depending on the nature of the program. During the sessions, participants learn about philanthropy and local communal needs, participate in values clarification exercises, host site visits, select causes to fund, volunteer for an agency they have chosen to support, and conclude the program by celebrating their achievements.
Here are some thoughts from past participants over the years:
“I now realize the massive amount of help that people need, and how important it is to help them. I loved the feeling of making a difference and can’t wait to continue doing it throughout my life. H.O.P.E. has truly inspired me to make a change, and I can’t wait to inspire others.” – Rachel Sperber, 2011
“The H.O.P.E. Program really taught me a lot about tzedakah and different organizations in a fun way. I really feel that I was able to give something to others in my community and around the world. Thanks to Areyvut, they made chesed fun for me.” – Ora Friedman, 2012
“I learned that kids can do philanthropy too; not only adults. H.O.P.E. opened my eyes to wonderful organizations I never knew of before.” – Meira Prager, 2013
“I learned that charity is not just giving money and I hope to start helping out a lot more.” – Kayla Grunstein, 2014
“When I started H.O.P.E. I thought what an opportunity! The program taught me no matter what, you can make a difference.” – DJ Wartelsky, 2015
“By participating in H.O.P.E. I learned that everyone has the ability to make an impact, and that we actively have to make a difference in our world.” – Daniella Rothschild, 2016
“H.O.P.E. took a group of 7th graders that didn’t think they could impact a single person, and gave us the opportunity to change countless lives with one single decision. That’s something that’s going to stay with me for the rest of my life.” – Nava Forman, 2017
Areyvut can develop and implement curriculum, as well as create and facilitate all aspects of the program, and will tailor the program to your particular needs. Please contact Daniel Rothner at (201) 244-6702 or [email protected] to discuss starting a program in your community.
