Connect, Lead, and Create Impact
The Jewish Teen Foundation (JTF) offers a unique year-long opportunity for Jewish-identifying high school students (grades 9-12) to engage in exploration of philanthropy, fundraising, and leadership.
Rooted in the values of tikkun olam (repairing the world) and social responsibility, this experience empowers teens to create positive change and fosters a deep sense of connection with fellow JTF board members. It’s an opportunity that not only enriches teens’ understanding of philanthropy but also equips them with valuable tools for the future—an experience truly unlike any other, creating lasting impact. Each year, JTF teens raise tens of thousands of dollars which they award to nonprofits in our community, in Israel, and beyond.
Applications are closed for the 2026-2027 year.
Program Overview
JTF immerses participants in the world of philanthropy and social justice. Throughout the program, teens will:
- Explore Social Issues In Our Community: Delve into critical topics such as lack of education, access to health-related services, poverty, domestic violence and more. Engage in thought-provoking discussions that challenge perspectives and inspire action.
- Collaborate with Peers: Work alongside a diverse group of fellow teens who share a passion for making a difference. Participate in interactive group activities that foster teamwork, creativity, and collective decision-making.
- Fundraising Experience: Learn how to make an effective fundraising strategy and raise dollars for people in need in our community and abroad. Last year, teens raised over $100k!
- Hands-On Grantmaking: Gain practical experience in the grant-making process. Research and identify organizations that align with the group’s shared values, evaluate funding proposals based on their potential impact, present findings to peers, and contribute to the decision-making process on fund allocation.
- Leadership Skills: Build leadership skills including project management, effective communication, and strategic thinking.
- Mentoring & Networking: Engage and connect with experienced community leaders, professionals, and like-minded peers.
Impact
Since 2004, JTF has pioneered the successful model of engaging a full spectrum of Jewish teens in philanthropic social action drawing on centuries of Jewish wisdom and practice.
FAQs
Interviews will be offered on a rolling basis, so the earlier you apply, the better! When you complete the application, you will receive an email from us explaining the next steps (additional documentation to submit before receiving an invitation to group/individual interviews).
Applications are now closed for the 2026-2027 boards.
Pro tip: have the contact information for a professional reference ready.
JTF teens decide the population they will focus on for the year. Past populations have included but are not limited to: youth impacted by the foster care system, individuals struggling with their mental health/addiction, people affected by domestic violence, refugees, and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Last year, JTF teens raised over $100k for people affected by teens impacted by the foster care system and formerly incarceration individuals.
This year’s teens are currently raising money for victims of sexual violence, refugees, and military veterans.
JTF Board members have the opportunity to earn up to 32 community service hours per program year for their fundraising efforts.
The seven Sunday board meetings will take place in San Francisco/ the Peninsula (3– 7 pm).
- Monthly 30-minute check in with mentor group (“Pod”)
- Individual/small partner fundraisers (in person and/or online)
- 6-8 hours of monthly individual and/or small group work (both in-person and online)
- Consistent communication via Whatsapp and email
The cost of the program is $1,000. Need-based financial assistance is available.
- There are no restrictions on the number of years a teen may participate in JTF. Teens are encouraged to partake for multiple years, as each years’ mission changes, and participating in multiple years increases the opportunity to take a deeper dive into the various issues facing those in our community and the strategies in which to best serve them.
- Following your first year on the JTF Board, you can apply to join the Leadership Council (LC) to deepen your learning and establish your skills as a leader and mentor.
- Being an LC is exclusively for returning JTF members who are ready to take their leadership and fundraising skills to the next level. LC members have a unique and important role in helping to plan and facilitate JTF Board meetings, making executive decisions, guiding programming, mentoring their peers, and operating as role models for the rest of the group.
- The additional time commitment for LC members is 7-10 hours per month, which includes:
- 4-6 hours of individual and/or mentoring work (both in-person and online)
- 3-4 hours of bimonthly LC meetings
Members commit to full participation in all program meetings and work which takes place from August through May. Participants are expected to dedicate about 10-13 hours each month to the program including meetings.