Teen Development
JFCS is committed to providing opportunities for teens in our community to experience philanthropy, help those in need, volunteer with our programs, learn about career options and opportunities, experience service-learning programs, and lend their voice to how programs operate. JFCS creates meaningful experiences for teens which in turn create a connection to community and begin a lifelong dedication to service.
THE JFCS JUNIOR BOARD
Teens work with various programs at JFCS, learning about the origins of programs, successes, challenges, and growth processes, giving their input on operations and sharing what they’ve taken away from the experiences. Junior Board members meet regularly to discuss the issues affecting them and those that affect the agency, collaborating and connecting while learning and making an impact on the agency.
TEEN EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM (TEP)
This program for Jewish teens allows them to explore the various programs at the agency through volunteering opportunities. Teens learn about philanthropy and how each department operates, embark on fundraising projects, and allocate money raised to various programs at JFCS. Teen Empowerment focuses on philanthropy and giving back as a way of life, instilling these values at a young age.
HELPING HANDS SUMMER WORK READINESS EXPERIENCE
A six-week paid work preparedness program for Philadelphia teens ages 14 and up that takes place over the summer. Workshops and field trips are offered on a variety of topics to equip participants to gain and maintain employment. With an emphasis on prevention and mental health awareness, and through a trauma-informed lens, teens focus on higher education and career exploration, learning to recognize their own skills while learning new ones and building excitement for the future.
For more information, contact Melissa Blackson, Administrative Coordinator & ELECT Data Coordinator, at 215.356.1851 or mblackson@jfcsphilly.org.
B’NAI MITZVAH PROJECTS
Pre-teens looking to fulfill service hours in preparation for their Bar or Bat Mitzvah can take part in a variety of volunteer activities. Opportunities include grocery delivery to those who are homebound, clothing drives, virtual volunteering, and building relationships with older adults. B’nai Mitzvah students can explore different volunteering opportunities or engage with a single service project to create a meaningful connection with our programs and those they serve.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES OF ALL KINDS
Teens collaborate with programs like Our Closet and People Living with Disabilities in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Teens form new relationships in a space which fosters inclusion and creates a sense of community.
To sign up for youth volunteer opportunities, contact Brianna Torres, Volunteer Coordinator, at 267.256.2261 or btorres@jfcsphilly.org.
Our Staff
Courtney Owen, LCSW, Program Officer, Education and Outreach Services & Mental Health
Adrienne Tomlinson, Director, Education & Outreach Services
Melissa Blackson, Administrative Coordinator & ELECT Data Coordinator
Brianna Torres, Volunteer Coordinator