Free $$$ For Do-Gooder Teens

Do-gooder teens can reap some benefit for their hard work through the fifth annual ” title=”Jewish Community Federation” target=”_blank”>Jewish Community Federation, recognizes California teens who have demonstrated active commitment to social action. Five winners receive $36,000 each, to be used as the teen sees fit.

Last year’s Los Angeles-area winners include Megan Kilroy, founder of ” title=”West Coast United Synagogue Youth” target=”_blank”>West Coast United Synagogue Youth teen conference, and then later raised funds to help create the first Abayudaya youth convention in Uganda, which he and a handful of other American USYers attended with 200 Jewish teens from Uganda and Kenya.  The partnership he founded has become the USY/Abayudaya Partnership to help create the next generation of Jewish leadership among the Abayudaya.

Qualifying teens must be California residents between the ages of 13 and 19 who self-identify as Jews, though their work can benefit anyone. Teachers, rabbis or community leaders — but not family members — can nominate the teens. Teens can also nominate themselves. Nominations are due Dec. 17. For more information, visit