Over 650 people joined the Jewish Community Youth Foundation’s (JCYF) annual Philanthropy Fair and Check Presentation Ceremony, held February 21 at Robbinsville High School. Over $61,000 was distributed to 27 programs by 170 area teens representing 18 Synagogues, 11 Middle Schools and 21 High Schools.
Highlights from the evening included a Bar Mitzvah celebration honoring those that have contributed to the success of JCYF during a special candle lighting ceremony. Greenwood House: Robert and Natalie Marcus Home for the Jewish Aged was the recipient of the No Small Change grant, an initiative where spare change is collected at each meeting and the pooled money goes to an organization selected by senior class representatives.
Stephanie Blitzer of East Windsor, a junior at American University and a 2013 JCYF graduate, won the sixth annual JCYF Distinguished Alumni Award for her participation in many philanthropic and community service activities. She received a $360 award which she will donate toward HIAS, an organization that protects and advocates for the most vulnerable refugees, helping them build new lives and reuniting them with their families in safety and freedom. Stephanie told the current JCYF participants: “Don’t wait until you graduate from JCYF to fully understand and appreciate the skills you developed. It is a privilege to participate in such an amazing organization.”
To see a special Bar Mitzvah video highlighting 13 years of JCYF, and message from alumni award winner Stephanie Blitzer, visit our Stories page.
For more information, visit the Jewish Community Youth Foundation page!
