I have been an active BBYO member since the start of my 8th grade year. I have put in time, effort, and commitment into BBYO. With so many Jewish organizations and communities around the world, it’s worth asking: why do thousands of teens keep coming back to BBYO?

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1. Leadership. BBYO is teen lead, and this fact is part of what sets our organization apart. This means that BBYO gives so many Jewish teens the platform to grow as leaders. We take initiative by planning, coordinating, and executing. We learn what leadership means to us before stepping into the “real world,” helping us grow into the best versions of ourselves.

2. Connection. What other organization can you think of that reaches 50 countries and 70+ regions? BBYO is unique in the sense that we reach and connect so many Jewish teens around the world. Personally, I have been lucky to live in a place with a flourishing Jewish community, but that is not the case everywhere. There are so many places across the globe where BBYO is the only way that Jewish teens can comfortably practice their judaism.

3. Pluralism. This is defined as “the recognition and acceptance of diversity.” BBYO  celebrates all expressions of Judaism, allowing so many people the opportunity to explore what being Jewish means to them.

4. Values. BBYO combines leadership, religion, education, service, recreation, and more. BBYO is special as it offers something for everyone. 

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These are just a few of the reasons why I and so many others keep coming back to BBYO. By showing up, we are building a future for those who come after us.