Some BBYO journeys start with a friend’s invite, a parent’s push, or an instagram post. Mine started with some truly incredible staff. One day, I was walking into a Holocaust Education Week program, looking for some Jewish connection and a meaningful evening. The next, I woke up and found myself a Regional S’ganit. Sometimes, I forget to think back to what got me here… but I never do, and never will take any of it for granted.

The staff and advisors in BBYO are the superheroes lifting us up. They support us through every initiative and every program, while devoting themselves to our chapters and regions, including every teen within them. They share their passions for BBYO and encourage our leadership, knowing the gift it gives us before we even see it for ourselves. They help us make the most of our BBYO experience by supporting us through every board position, leadership role, and steering team.

Particularly, I want to thank our advisors. The people who volunteer their time to make BBYO the home it is for us. They make connections with their chapters and spend their own time encouraging and supporting their teens to help them achieve all their goals. They make BBYO a welcoming place for members and non-members alike. Advisors truly shape the experiences we have in BBYO, and I wish we could appreciate them more for the work they do for us every single week. Sometimes, I find myself guilty of overlooking these incredible people who dedicate so much time to us, but I hope they never forget just how much we appreciate them.

At that first ever program, I was just a shy 8th grader who didn’t know what she was looking for. Rather, I didn’t even know there WAS something to look for. Then, one of the kindest people I’ve ever met walked up to me and introduced me to the incredible world of BBYO. After that day, I spent the next 3 years falling in love with the organization that gave me a home and brought me back to life. And it was all thanks to Jack Rosenbaum. Jack — I’m endlessly grateful for you and the community you invited me into. Thank you for always believing in me and encouraging me to do the things I never thought were possible.

Part of being in a new chapter meant I’ve seen a few chapter advisors come and go over the years. However, that never stopped them from making a lasting impact and connections that stick. During my most formative BBYO year, I had the privilege of meeting Jessica Budin, an incredible chapter advisor who filled every program with joy, smiles, and laughter. Jess – I’ll never forget the night I sent you my Regional Board election candidate video, and you encouraged me with more excitement and love than I could’ve ever imagined. That day, you made me confident. Now, I wish to continue making you proud with every step I take in BBYO.

This year, I got to meet a new chapter advisor who is a true inspiration - Roark Baker. He was immediately welcomed with open arms into Mishpacha BBYO #5173, and I hope he realizes just how much we appreciate him. Roark, you are the coolest guy and you know it. Your BBYO story is unbelievable and I can only dream to accomplish as much as you did. I find it so moving to see the love you have for our chapter and the appreciation you have for its potential. We love you even more, and I’m so grateful for the year I’ve had with you as our advisor.

While serving on LOR’s 46th Regional Board, I’ve been lucky enough to work with our amazing regional staff. The knowledge they share and support they provide has made this year so unbelievably rewarding. Without them, we would not have been able to accomplish all that we have, and they deserve so much recognition and appreciation for the incredible work that they do. Thank you so much for all that you have given me.

To all advisors in LOR:

Although we may not have met yet or had the opportunity to connect personally, I hope that you know how much I appreciate you and all that you do. Every chapter in Lake Ontario Region thrives because of your dedication and effort. I admire you every day for the way you give your time to support your chapters, and I hope you realize how much of an impact you make to every teen in our region. Your chapters love you, the region loves you, and I love you. BBYO is the place I come alive, and it’s all thanks to you.

For the Alephs and BBGs:

Go to your next chapter program and thank your advisor. They’re there for you always, and you know how much they mean to you. It’s time to go make them know it!