With you, the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County is providing safe spaces for local Jewish teenagers to feel connected and included, as they cope with rising antisemitism.
A recent survey of approximately 2,000 high school students in the United States and Canada revealed that 71 percent of Jewish teens have experienced antisemitic harassment or discrimination, with 61 percent experiencing it in person, 46 percent experiencing it online, and 36 percent experiencing antisemitism both online and in person.
The survey was conducted in partnership with First International, Impact Research and BBYO, a longtime, nonprofit partner of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. It was the first-ever comprehensive survey of Jewish high school students held to better understand the impact of the October 7 terrorist attacks in Israel and the subsequent rise in antisemitism across the world. (1)
In response, Federation supports programs that allow Jewish teens, like Hayden Shapiro, to feel more connected, seen and safe.
Investing in Jewish connections and future Jewish leadership
With your support, our Federation invests in the local BBYO Gold Coast Chapter’s Leadership Training Initiative, which enables BBYO to recruit and train new leaders, engage upperclassmen in regional roles, and offer participation in international leadership experiences, such as the International Convention and summer programs. Federation’s support also provides resources to students facing antisemitism, including a hotline for immediate reporting.
“BBYO has been the cornerstone of my life for the past three years, shaping my journey and forming my closest friendships,” said Hayden, who attended the BBYO Chapter Leadership Training Conference (CLTC), thanks, in part, to Federation’s support.
Creating safe spaces, addressing antisemitism: BBYO’s crucial roles
In the face of rising antisemitism, BBYO provides essential safe spaces and social environments for Jewish teens, with clear data showing that involvement with BBYO has helped students deal with the added stress and anxiety. Nearly three-quarters of BBYO members say that BBYO has influenced their ability to express their thoughts about Israel and/or antisemitism, and 65 percent say that spending time with their peers in local BBYO chapters helps them find comfort, underscoring the important role Jewish youth groups and educational institutions play in the lives of Jewish teens.
Gold Coast BBYO boasts 1,100 active members, and is committed to providing Jewish teens in Palm Beach and Broward counties with programming that emphasizes leadership development, social activities, community service, and Jewish identity-building through a unique and inclusive lens.
“Attending CLTC this summer, I learned valuable skills and techniques to use in my chapter,” Hayden said. “Practicing Jewish traditions at camp was a highlight after a day of activities and leadership sessions. The experiences and connections I’ve gained are priceless, making BBYO an indispensable part of my life.”
Gold Coast BBYO is one of 70+ partner agencies funded through the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County.
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Source: (1) https://bbyo.org/about-us/press-releases/landmark-survey-conducted-by-bbyo-reveals-jewish-h