Over this past year, DJS and I have been privileged to work with the high school students of TBE as on of the pilot sites for the URJ-sponsored "Teen Philanthrophy" project. Through it, our young people have been studying, exploring and implementing a variety of philanthropy-related topics from social justice and tikkun olam to fundraising and grant writing to request evaluation and donor recognition. It has been a wonderful exposure to the intricate system of philanthropy, which is much more, of course, than simply "charitable giving." And for us, as teachers, it has opened the opportunity to help cultivate a coming generation who will be more philanthropic in their endeavors that ours (my direct peers, that is) has proven to be.
After a general overview of these various items - the students chose four areas of concern that they felt are critical in our community. After putting out a call for RFPs (request for proposals), the teens vetted the applications and ended up making grants of a total of $2500 to two local worthy organizations - what a great way to culminate the initial season of the project.
Today, we attended the annual "Salute to Philanthropy" luncheon hosted by the local chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) - at which our program, known as Teen J.A.M. (Jewish Agency of Michiana) was recognized for its efforts by receiving this year's Youth Philanthropist award. I am very proud of the work our high schoolers are doing to elevate awareness about important issues, and to be involved in supporting such ideas in real terms.
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