What is the Teen Philanthropy Movement?
NCSY’s Teen Philanthropy Movement (TPM) is a social action program designed to provide leadership training and lay a foundation of giving back to the world. Not only will students volunteer and provide aid to those in need, but they will also form “Teen-Foundations” to research non-profit organizations and create a “pitch” which will be presented to a panel of donors who will award more than $5,000 in grants to the cause of their choice.
Mission
To educate Jewish teens about the Torah perspective on giving, the importance of Tzedakah and its impact on society.
Vision
A Jewish community with strong roots in philanthropy, giving and leadership. A Jewish people committed to giving back and helping one another.
Community
Students will partner with community leaders in learning about non-profit organizations as well as the Jewish concepts of philanthropy.
Local Teens Volunteer at the Jewish Gift Closet in San Diego as part of TPM in 2012
What is Tzedakah?
We believe Tzedakah is a core Jewish value. Although it is often taken to mean ‘charity’, it is more proper to translate it as ‘doing what’s right’ from the root word ‘tzedek’ meaning correct, righteous or just. Early on in our history, God praises Abraham for passing these values down to his children; “I have taken special notice of Abraham because he teaches his children, and his household, to keep God’s way by doing acts of Tzedakah and justice…(Gen. 18:19)” It is in this spirit that we pass these values on to our children and our collective household – the future Jewish community.
NCSY is grateful for its partnership with the Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego in developing TPM.