The Jewish Community Foundation will hold its annual youth philanthropy fair, the B’nai Tzedek Shuk, to introduce teenagers to tzedakah by inviting them to establish their own personal charitable giving accounts at the Foundation.
The fair will be held on April 4 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Jewish Community Campus (5801 W. 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211).
Once a year, B’nai Tzedek teen fundholders may donate 10% of their funds to a Jewish charity, either locally or in Israel. The Shuk gives fundholders the opportunity to learn about the missions of community organizations and how their donations can make a positive impact. In many instances, the Shuk is the first time teens are introduced to the array of organizations working in the community.
The Shuk is planned by the B’nai Tzedek Youth Council, a cadre of teens who work together to engage their peers in philanthropy. The council chose the theme, “A New Era of Giving,” based on the popularity of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, for this year’s event. The event will include references to Swift, including colorful branding, puns on song and album titles and the opportunity for participants to make charitable-giving-themed friendship bracelets.
“I would encourage friends to attend the Shuk because it’s a fun opportunity to learn about organizations and use your B’nai Tzedek Fund,” said Youth Council member Norah Pabst.
Fellow Youth Council member Jonah Stein agreed, saying, “My favorite thing about the Shuk is getting to learn about what different organizations are doing in our community.”
Before visiting with communal representatives, guests will be invited to socialize at a complimentary Vaad-supervised and kid-approved light dinner. Dippin’ Dots kosher ice cream will also be available.
Those who want to learn more about B’nai Tzedek are welcome to attend, and as an added incentive, there will be a drawing to win a free B’nai Tzedek account. All current B’nai Tzedek fundholders who RSVP in advance will be given the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card.
Those interested in more information or RSVPing should visit jcfkc.org/shuk or contact Tracie Holley at (913) 327-8284 or .
The Foundation thanks the following supporters of the B’nai Tzedek program: The Bertha S. and Ida E. Adelson Memorial Fund; Rita and Irwin Blitt; The Philip and Dorothy Byer Philanthropic Fund; The Community Legacy Fund; The Flo Harris Supporting Foundation; Ron and Susie Goldsmith; The Alan and Judy Kosloff Philanthropic Fund; The Lowenstein Family Supporting Foundation; Bob and Barbara Palan; The Sosland Foundation; and The White Family Supporting Foundation.
