More than $40,000 was distributed to 21 non-profit organizations by 149 teens representing 11 synagogues and 30 area schools during the Jewish Community Youth Foundation’s 18th annual check presentation ceremony.
JCYF is a project of JFCS of Greater Mercer County and the Ricky and Andrew J. Shechtel Philanthropic Fund.
The program has disbursed $930,618 since its inception 18 years ago, according to information provided by JCFY.
Highlights from the evening of Feb. 21 included a live trivia poll quizzing participants on their JCYF and pop culture knowledge from the past 18 years.
The annual Alumni Award was presented to Princeton resident Talia Feldman, Class of 2017, for her outstanding work at the University of Delaware. Feldman designated the University of Delaware Hillel as the recipient of her $360 award prize, according to the statement.
Eric Steinberg of Robbinsville spoke about the importance of working together to make a bigger impact for those in need, according to the statement.
This year, teens from Mercer and Bucks counties met on Zoom to discuss ways to make a difference in local, national and international communities. They interviewed agency representatives from all over the world to learn how their projects could help those in need. One participant mentioned that, “JCYF has taught me the impact of COVID-19 on a global stage and ways to fund agency needs during a pandemic,” according to the statement.
Part of this year’s curriculum included the JCYF Fun(d)raising Campaign 2020, the first-ever completely virtual initiative to make a greater impact around the world.
Shira Black, Class of 2021, said, “JCYF taught me about the importance of philanthropy and supporting organizations at the local, national, and global levels. I learned how impactful even the smallest donation of money or time could be for individuals or groups who need assistance.”
Matthew Shapiro, a member of the JCYF Senior Class and Lawrenceville resident mentioned, “JCYF has contributed to my knowledge of philanthropy and the importance of giving to others. I learned to appreciate the vast differences that come with each type of organization and their unique method to make the community a better place. My participation in JCYF has greatly helped me in becoming a more knowledgeable and philanthropic member of the community,” according to the statement.
For more information, contact Celeste Albert at 609-987-8100, ext. 210 or celestea@jfcsonline.org, or visit www.jfcsonline.org/jcyf.
