JCC Chicago Receives Funding for Groundbreaking Girls Empowerment Program
Chicago, IL –August 22, 2016—JCC Chicago has been awarded a $30,000 grant from the Hadassah Foundation in support of the innovative leadership initiative, Seed613 Teen Girls Cohort. This groundbreaking new fellowship program will enable 15 Jewish teenage girls to learn tangible business and leadership skills and develop social impact initiatives, while empowering them as thoughtful leaders who will work to end gender bias for the next generation.
“I can’t wait to meet the teens who will be part of this incredible new program,” said Addie Goodman, Vice President, JCC Chicago. “The Seed613 teen girls will work with business leaders and mentors to develop socially responsible ventures that will impact the Jewish community and beyond. In doing so, they will build their own leadership, communication and entrepreneurial skills to become young women of influence who are passionate about social change.”
Through innovative curriculum, supportive staff and community collaboration, Seed613 will equip fellows with the tools and confidence to develop socially responsible projects that will impact the community. Together, and with the support of experienced mentors and coaches, these teens will identify challenges in the community and create solutions to yield change. Fellows will meet monthly to practice innovative problem solving, critical thinking and human-centered project design. They will also discuss pressing social issues, learn fundraising and budgeting tactics, and create community among their peers.
The Hadassah Foundation is an investor in social change for girls and women in the United States and in Israel. Since 1999, it has awarded grants worth approximately $7.3 million to nearly 90 different not-for-profit organizations in Israel and in the United States. In 2016, the Foundation awarded $550,000 in grants; six organizations in the United States—including JCC Chicago—received funds to foster leadership development among Jewish girls and young women.
Fellows will meet twice per month for 2-3 hours at a time to work with their cohort, their coach and mentor, and on their projects. Time will also be spent outside of seminars on their projects.
If you have any questions, please contact Julie Minor at jminor@jccchicago.org or 847.763.3639.
JCC Chicago is a non-profit organization inspired by Jewish values, bridging traditions and generations to create a more vibrant, connected community. JCC is a partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Elizabeth Abrams
224.406.9212
eabrams@jccchicago.org