More than a cultural encounter.
A connection to
Judaism—for life.
The Katz family initiative helps JSU teens continue learning and growing beyond their public school clubs, creating deep, meaningful connections to Judaism.
Avi and Becky Katz recognized the valuable work JSU is doing for our public school teens. With their vision and generosity, they have driven JSU’s impact forward through the Katz JSU Initiative.
Here’s how: A four pronged approach
The making of passionate leaders
JSU Annual Presidents Conference
Within every JSU club, teens have stepped up to be leaders. These teens are more committed to Jewish values than their peers, and are crucial in attracting their friends to JSU. Together, at the the presidents’ conference, we create a sense of movement and belonging. Teen leaders learn how to become ‘movers and shakers’ with recruitment, fundraising, and informal education training. They work together, build a sense of collective responsibility, and become a passionate community. We provide opportunities to stay connected throughout the year and keep the momentum strong.
An investment with exponential returns
Effective TJJ Recruitment
The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ) is an incredible Israel experience offered by JSU. Most teens return home more committed to Judaism, more connected to JSU, and eager to continue our programs. We aim to get more teens registered for TJJ.
We’ll do this through:
- Building more meaningful, consistent relationships (including staff visiting their ‘teens’ in Israel during TJJ);
- Training staff on how to promote TJJ with knowledge and confidence;
- Providing modest recruitment incentives to lower the financial barrier.
Improving operations, nurturing relationships
Doubling Boots On The Ground
JSU clubs run for a limited time and often have many participants. One person can’t develop a relationship with everyone, ensure all operations run smoothly, and deliver substantial educational programming. We will add one staff member to one club in each of three demographically diverse cities. Extra staff will engage with the teens through chavrusa learning, Shabbat invitations, and recruitment towards additional programs. They will create more consistent relationships with their teens, and act as their role models.
Thinking big, doing bigger
Field Managers and Staff Support
We will promote several veteran JSU staff to the ‘Field Manager’ position. Each manager will guide one club leader at a time for six months. During this time, they will create and implement a customized growth plan to expand the club, improve retention rates, and increase transition to further NCSY programs. This initiative is projected to positively impact 1,200 teens during the first two years.