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Welcome to the Teen Engagement Department at Katz JCC

Ages 11-18

Leadership Opportunities

Join Seed856 or Root856 and be part of a cohort dedicated to making a difference and inspiring change. Be the spark that lights up your community—apply today and don’t wait!

Apply to Seed 856 : Empowering 7th/8th Graders to Lead 

Apply to Root856: Empowering 9th/10th Graders to Lead

Get Involved

Want to learn more or get involved? Reach out to Carl Abramowitz, our Director of Teen Engagement at cabramowitz@jfedsnj.org or 856-424-4444 ext. 1191. We can’t wait to meet you and see how you’ll make your mark at Katz JCC!

What We Offer

Vacation Days-On/Days-off Programs

  • These service-learning projects typically fall on Vacation Days when the teen is out of school but the parent/guardian has work. These events follow a One-for-One model, offering charity and volunteer opportunities mixed with engaging activities.

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JTeen856 Leadership Opportunities

  • Seed856: Empowers 7th and 8th graders to tackle local challenges through innovative problem-solving and human-centered design. 
  • Root856: Equips 9th and 10th graders with the tools to collaborate with local communities and peers to address real-world challenges.

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Teen MeetUps and Social Events

  • We offer a range of events that are not just fun but also enriching, connecting you to your heritage, values, and peers. 

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Community Partnerships and Teen Volunteerism with JFCS

Our commitment to community service is strengthened through our partnership with the Jewish Family and Children’s Services (JFCS). We collaborate on a variety of volunteer opportunities that allow teens to make a real impact:

    • Personalized Fundraisers: Teens can create and lead their own fundraisers to support causes they are passionate about within the community.
    • Food Pantry: Help stock and organize the JFCS Food Pantry, providing essential resources to families in need.
    • Senior Services: Volunteer to assist with programs and services that support our senior community, from companionship visits to helping with errands and special events.
    • Project SARAH: Contribute to this vital program that provides support and resources to those experiencing domestic abuse, playing a role in creating a safe and supportive community.
  • Holocaust Survivors: Write letters or make birthday cards for local Holocaust Survivors; share your talent (singing, dancing, poetry recital) at a monthly Cafe Europa program.
  • Disability Services: Collect art supplies or run specific errands for individuals with disabilities; join a monthly SOAR (Social Opportunities and Recreation) program to aid socialization for young adults with disabilities. 

Teens interested in these volunteer opportunities can reach out to JFCS by emailing jfcsvolunteer@jfedsnj.org or visiting their website.

Volunteer Opportunities

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