The synagogue, Kehilat Hanahar (KHN), also known as The Little Shul by the River in New Hope, is hosting an informational session about the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization (BBYO) on Wednesday, April 13, at 6:15 p.m. It is for both parents and teens. It is open to the public. One need not be a KHN member to attend and do not need to be a KHN member to join BBYO.
The organization has been around for about 90 years providing Jewish teens with leadership training, community service opportunities, and a positive environment to develop Jewish identity. It is a pluralistic organization, and their core values are: Inclusivity, Jewish identity, active leadership, and tradition. There are currently almost 600 BBYO chapters around the world. There are more than 400,000 BBYO alumni.
In our region, called Liberty Region, there are 21 chapters with approximately 700 members.
The mission statement of BBYO (www.bbyo.org) is "More Jewish teens, more meaningful Jewish experiences." According to Arielle Buxbaum, Regional Director, BBYO Liberty Region, "BBYO allows teens to cultivate leadership skills, give back to their community, and advocate for the causes they care about, all through a Jewish lens. I am inspired and motivated by the work I get to do with the BBYO community each day, and truly believe that our teens are paving the way in ensuring that the Jewish future is strong and vibrant."
Noa Rassin, Chapter President of the Chapter N'siah, Leviticeem BBG (Girls Chapter in Yardley, PA) states, "BBYO is more than just an extracurricular activity; through BBYO I learned how to be a strong Jewish leader and how to make an impact in my community. BBYO is such a welcoming environment that has given me a Jewish home away from home (Israel). Along with the amazing opportunities, I have met my best friends and have made memories that I will never forget."
For more information, visit www.bbyo.org or call Stacey Frank, KHN Education Director, at 215-285-6049.