Unique Fellowship Empowers Young Adults

By Adam Pollack, JCF Federation Fellow

I recently read an article in The Chronicle of Philanthropy entitled, "Boards Are Not Ready for the Next Generation of Trustees," by Rick Moyers in which he describes the inefficiencies of boards and how that is a turnoff for young adults eager to get involved. The author approached this topic from the side of what current board members must do to change the ways boards function, ultimately making them more appealing to members of my generation. Two major questions are raised for me: how do we spark interest among young adults to become involved in communal life in the first place; and what can communities do to prepare engaged young adults for board service?

The first question is of particular interest to me (although, I'll only discuss it here briefly). In Dr. Ron Wolfson's recent book, "Relational Judaism," he discusses the critical role of relationship in engaging Jews in communal life. It is critical that our professionals and lay leaders understand the importance of such relationships and the time it takes for them to develop. It must be intentional and genuine.

In response to the second question I posed about preparing a new generation of communal lay leaders, I turn to my experience as a Federation Fellow. This initiative, run by the JCF, provides me and twenty-ish of my peers with an opportunity to learn about strong leadership and the skills it takes to become such a leader. In addition, we receive practical board experiences at community organizations where we can try out our new skills and knowledge right away. I have learned a great deal over the past nine months ranging from qualities of efficient boards and board members, to leading from positions of vision and strategy, to building consensus and running effective meetings. The balance of seminars and hands-on experience enables me to learn and then act. There's no need to wait, which is the best way to learn.

In the second year, my peers and I will be placed on committees at the Federation. There is still a great deal to learn and serving in a volunteer capacity at the JCF will certainly keep that ball rolling. As I started off, my peers and I are eager to get involved and this program is creating an avenue for such engagement. We bring a unique and important perspective that will help guide the future of our community and its institutions. I am glad that the Federation has demonstrated how important that is to them by hosting this program and investing in us. I look forward to more opportunities to share our learnings and hope to, one day, see you around the board table.