The Jewish Leaders Program is an elite program open to all Jewish teens in the Greater Boston area to create the next generation of Jewish leaders through individual training and mentorship from leading figures in the community. Teens will embark on a life journey with their peers over seven sessions to discover the impact they can contribute by developing core skills.

Programs Details
The Jewish Leaders Program is an immersive initiative designed to ignite a passion for community leadership among teenagers. Within this framework, participants will engage in a journey of discovery, identifying and addressing a significant challenge within their Jewish community. The program offers a unique platform for teens to interact with esteemed speakers and benefit from the mentorship of seasoned community leaders. These mentors will play a pivotal role in guiding participants as they develop and implement a social initiative aimed at enriching their community. This experiential learning process not only fosters leadership skills but also deepens the participants’ connection to their cultural and community values.

The program will meet weekly in the Beth El Youth Room (561 Ward St. Downstairs) on Sunday nights from 7:00 until 8:45 pm, beginning January 28th. Dinner will be provided at the start of the program and food will be available throughout.

Program Dates
January 11th

January 18th

January 25

February 1st

February 8th

February 15th

March 1st

March 8th

March 15th

 

Application Process

The Jewish Leadership Program (JLP) is looking for motivated, thoughtful, and driven Jewish teens who want to make a real difference in the Boston community. We’re seeking applicants who care about others, are ready to think big, and want to grow into changemakers through Torah, mentorship, and action.

Who Should Apply?

Jewish high school students in grades 9–12 from the Greater Boston area who:

• Are passionate about helping others

• Are excited to learn from Jewish leaders and mentors

• Are ready to commit to a high-level leadership and learning experience

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Application Timeline

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What You’ll Need to Apply

• Online Application Form
  Tell us about yourself, your interests, and why you want to join JLP

• 1 Letter of Recommendation
  From a teacher, advisor, youth group leader, or mentor who knows you well

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What Happens After You Apply?

1. Your application will be reviewed by the JLP selection team

2. You may be contacted for a short follow-up conversation (via phone or Zoom)

3. If accepted, you’ll be placed in a group with other passionate teens and matched with a mentor

4. You’ll receive everything you need to prepare for the launch on January 11, 2026

 

Objectives:

Teens will:

• Develop an awareness of the different needs of the Jewish community
• Internalize a passion to volunteer for the different Jewish organizations in Greater Boston
• Have the opportunity to implement their ideas to assist the community with guidance
• Gain critical skills necessary for leadership such as collaboration, time management, networking, and creativity.

 

Contact Information:

• Program Director: Rabbi Yudi Riesel
• Email: riesely@ncsy.org
• Phone: 551-265-6141

 

Jewish Leaders Program Rules & Expectations

1. Commitment to Attendance: Participants must attend all weekly sessions. One absence is permitted for extenuating circumstances, but advance notice is required. Additional absences may result in removal from the program.
2. Punctuality: Teens are expected to arrive on time and stay for the full duration of each session.
3. Commitment to the Program: Acceptance into the Jewish Leaders Program means taking a spot that could have been offered to another teen. Backing out after acceptance not only affects the program but also denies others the opportunity to participate. Once accepted, participants are expected to honor their commitment for the full duration of the program.
4. Active Participation: Participants must engage fully in discussions, activities, and projects. They should come prepared with any required materials or assignments.
5. Respect for Mentors and Peers: All members are expected to demonstrate respect toward speakers, mentors, and fellow participants at all times.
6. Representation of the Program: Participants are ambassadors of the Jewish Leaders Program and should uphold its values both during and outside of sessions. Any behavior that reflects poorly on the program may lead to removal.
7. Project Responsibility: Participants are responsible for completing their assigned tasks for community initiatives and contributing meaningfully to group projects.
8. Code of Conduct: Any form of bullying, disrespect, or inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. Violations of this rule may result in dismissal from the program.
9. Dress Code: While there is no formal dress code, participants should dress appropriately and respectfully, especially for events with guest speakers or community leaders.
10. Program Feedback: Teens are encouraged to provide constructive feedback to improve the program but must do so respectfully.
11. Program Continuation: The Jewish Leaders Program reserves the right to make decisions regarding individual participation to ensure the best outcomes for the group as a whole.
12. Communication: Participants must respond promptly to program-related communication and notify program coordinators of any conflicts or concerns as soon as possible.
13. Parental Support: Parents should support their teen’s commitment to the program by ensuring transportation and reinforcing program values at home.