Thanksgiving is the time of the year when we reflect on things we are grateful for. And what did I find, for the third year in a row, to be at the top of my list? BBYO! BBYO has provided me with so much: Jewish enrichment, new friends, engaging activities, a stronger Jewish identity, the list goes on. BBYO has given us so much. Now, it’s our turn to give back to this incredible organization.

Tuesday, December 2nd marks our annual #givingBBYOday. Our entire movement is going to unite to raise over one million dollars in just one day! The money we raise is extremely important, as it goes toward funding amazing BBYO experiences and leadership opportunities for BBGs and AZAs around the world. The money we raise has the opportunity to change Jewish lives.

I feel so blessed and fortunate that BBYO found me. It has truly changed my life and strengthened my Jewish identity and connection to the Jewish people. Through friends, family, and community members, I was encouraged to sign up for BBYO. What started out as one event led to two, and I was hooked. BBYO offered me the chance to meaningfully engage with the Jewish community on a deeper level, and I took it.

Last year, I attended IC (and I’m so excited for IC 26), which proved to truly be a life changing experience. There, I met countless new friends, strengthened my Jewish identity, and of course fell more and more deeply in love with BBYO.

But not everyone or every chapter has the resources to go on amazing programming or plan such involved events. That’s why we have #givingBBYOday. And that’s why we need donations. This day of donation is so important because it provides new experiences and opportunities to Jewish teens around the world, allowing them to partake in fun, exciting events and connect with their Jewish heritage.

So after this Thanksgiving, I know what I am thankful for. It’s BBYO, and all of the joy it has brought me. To give this same joy to Jewish teens around the world, donate to #givingBBYOday to make a difference!