The Jewish Community Foundation’s (JCF) Jewish Leadership Education Action and Development (J-LEAD) program, a giving circle for adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s, has granted $24,000 in support of five important community programs.
The group met virtually last month to hear presentations from agencies seeking funding and learn how their support could make an impact. In J-LEAD tradition, participants voted on one grant the evening of the presentations; after dialogue and consideration, J-LEAD awarded a grant to JCRB|AJC for their work to combat antisemitism in schools. J-LEAD participants made their remaining granting decisions by electronic ballot. The giving circle voted to fund the following programs this year:
JCRB|AJC: Prepare to Respond initiatives
Jewish Family Services: Kesher KC Neighborhood Market
Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City: Community Burial Program
Jewish Vocational Service: Emergency assistance
Sasone: Teen leadership training
J-LEAD participants and the grantee organizations gathered on May 22 for the program’s annual Grants Celebration. The event took place at SERV, a pickleball court and food venue in Overland Park, Kansas.
"I find J-LEAD to be a great outlet to help fund local organizations so that we can make a strong and positive difference in the community,” said Kris Zeid, J-LEAD co-chair. “It is also a great way to meet and build long-lasting relationships with other young and like-minded Jewish professionals in Kansas City."
J-LEAD makes grants from funds collected by its members ($500 charitable contribution for membership) as well as matching funds from the Jewish Community Foundation’s Community Legacy Fund and other generous Foundation donors. By pooling resources together and collectively making grant decisions, J-LEAD members are able to achieve a greater good than any one member could do alone.
The Foundation is currently offering a special incentive that allows new J-LEAD participants to join for half price – $250 for membership. In addition to grant making, J-LEAD meets several times a year for educational programs, volunteer opportunities and social events. More information about J-LEAD is available by contacting Josh Stein at (913) 327-8121 or .
