The Jewish Federation of Cleveland announced today its next cohort of Young Leadership Division (YLD) Microgrant Program recipients. Through its Microgrant Program, YLD looks to expand upon the thriving, vibrant Jewish Cleveland young adult community by empowering individuals or groups to create, plan, and host experiences for Jewish Clevelanders ages 22-45.

While COVID-19 was causing plenty of damage felt in the present, it was also leaving a trail of destruction stretching into years forward.

Around 23 million Americans filed for unemployment in April 2020 – not including the millions of college students who have not entered the work force yet, many of whom planned on doing so this summer. Adam Hirsh, executive director of Hillel at Kent State University, a Federation beneficiary agency, recalls that it was “heartbreaking to hear of all of the cancelled jobs, internships, trips and other planned summer experiences” of the students he works with.

I’m stronger. I’m independent. I’m lighter. I’m heavier. I’ve said yes. I’ve gained perspective. I’ve learned. I’ve grown.

As the COVID-19 pandemic presses on, the Cleveland restaurant community is beginning to understand the real impacts of closures and the fear of going out even after restrictions have been lifted.

In these unprecedented times, the YLD Microgrant Program* is an outstanding opportunity to create community in a safe and innovative way.

The first 248 Virtual Global Summit on May 17 highlighted community initiatives from North America, Europe and Israel.

Mazel tov to the December 2019 Young Leadership Division Microgrant Program Recipients

If you are a young Jewish Clevelander interested in Israel travel experiences, we have 3 great ways to get you to Israel this summer. Applications are being accepted now. Join us!

The Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Young Leadership Division (YLD) announced the appointment of Cameron Orlean as board chair and Abbie Pappas as board vice chair, effective January 2020. Cameron served as the YLD’s board vice chair last year. He succeeds Dayna Orlean in this role. YLD connects Jewish young adults, ages 22 – 45, to each other and the community through social, volunteer, leadership, and philanthropic activities.