Andrew Eckstein
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph Godol
“Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a Mystery. Today is a gift, that's why it is called the
Present.”
-Unknown
My Brother Alephs,
The past has been written by the Alephs that came before you. But today, we write what
we want. For now, and forever. Being an Aleph, we have a unique set of
responsibilities, that is, to continue this ever growing organization so we can set today,
a future for our people. Our time is now, and through our dedication and hard work, we
will continue to secure a future for the Jewish people.
As we all know, our time in BBYO is too short to not take advantage of every
opportunity that is presented before us. Through summer programs such as CLTC,
ILTC, Kallah, Impact, and all of the Passport trips, our organization provides a multitude
of opportunities to continue the strengthening of our future as a Jewish people. The
relationships that we build, and the memories that we make keep our movement always
growing. And with this continuous growth, we are assuring a home like BBYO to leave a
lasting impact on our community, and communities to come.
Growing up, we are all told that we will be able to change the world. Being a part of
BBYO, we have already accomplished this goal. This year, we will achieve things that
our founders never thought possible. Our organization will grow to become larger than
ever before, and the possibilities that come with that are endless. Going to International
Convention, we are the ones that have stepped up and taken the initiative to grow and
better our movement. We are the ones that are going to shape the Jewish present. And
we are the ones that are going to shape the Jewish future.
As we all know, one of the most driving forces behind AZA is Fraternity. This Fraternity
is what bonds us as Alephs, and is, to me, the essential role to ensuring the meaningful
experiences that we have in BBYO. We have built a brotherhood through this Fraternity,
and have created a network spanning the world, in which our Judaism flourishes. We
cannot leave it at this though. The importance of maintaining these networks will not
only serve us in times of hardship, but will be ever more prevalent in times of triumph.
We are the future of the Jewish people. The destiny has been left as clay in our hands,
and it is our job to mold it.
While it is important to have this success on an international level, we must remember
that our organization would not be possible without each individual chapter doing their
part as well. Chapters are the foundation of our movement, and with a weak foundation,
our entire building will collapse. Whether you have a chapter of fifteen members, or a
chapter of one hundred and fifteen members, each one is just as important as the rest,
and each chapter helps us build our structure to be sound, and successful.
When it comes down to it, nothing is impossible. We can achieve anything we set our
minds too, and BBYO gives us the perfect platform to do just that. It will take hard work,
time, and dedication, but we will mold this organization for generations to come. We will
succeed. And our success, begins with you.
“If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.”
-Henry Ford
Priority Papers
Grow AZA & BBG
Sometimes with our heavy involvement on an international level in BBYO, we forget
how important our chapters are back home. It is very important to remember that BBYO
would not be possible without our chapters, and that they are our organization's
foundation. In order for us to be successful on an international level, we must first be
successful on a chapter level. This all starts with the growth of our movement. Some
members in BBYO find it a little scary that the youth group is so large, spanning several
countries. This being said, they feel intimidated to come to events or conventions.
Bringing things home on a local level, not only gives these members, or potential
members, a smaller and more comfortable place to start, it also makes things more
personal for them. This is where growing our organization is most important, and this is
where it needs to begin. Pushing for the growth on a local level will not only provide a
more comfortable environment for new members to be in, but it will provide a familiar
place for these members to grow in.
Program Excellence
Sometimes we forget that BBYO isn’t just an awesome time with good friends, there is
depth to this organization. It is important to remember that our organization
encompasses many folds and principles that are vital to keeping our youth group alive
and well. Implementing these into our programs will not only ensure program
excellence, but will also ensure the continuation and growth of our movement. With
principles such as Fraternity and Good Sisterhood, we build our bond with one another.
With Judaism and Jewish Heritage, we make our connection to the religion that binds us
all. With Charity and Community Service, we are given the opportunity to help others
who are in need around the world. Using the Menorah Pledge Principles, Seven
Cardinal Principles, five AZA folds, and six BBG Folds is a must in order for BBYO to
succeed. Making sure that the importance of this gets back to the chapter level, is vital
for it to have any sort of impact on an international level, because when a chapter leads
a successful program, not only does that program improve the chapter, it also improves
our entire order. Excellence in programming is what drives our organization. We build
our movement through all of these folds and principles, and making sure that all of our
brother Alephs and sister B'nai B’rith Girls understand the importance of excelling in
programs will help to improve the entirety of our order.
BBYO Stand UP
It is important to remember that sometimes life may seem perfect in BBYO, while
outside of BBYO, it is not. To me, this is why Stand Up is such an important part of our
organization. It gives us an opportunity to give back to those less fortunate and to the
Jewish community and our communities as a whole. Growing up in a city such as
Greensboro, we can see the impact of standing up for what you believe in on a local
level. We in BBYO have the opportunity to change the world. Whether it begins with a
large step or a small one, every step towards bettering our world is what matters.
Standing up for different causes is one of the best ways to show that although we have
been through many hardships as a jewish people, we still value giving back. Moving
forward in BBYO, expanding our field of Stand-Up will help this priority excel beyond
anything BBYO has seen thus far. Stand-Up week is our time to ensure that we are
doing right for our community. Making sure that each region emphasizes the importance
of Stand-Up week will help the Stand-Up initiative become a more dominating factor of
BBYO. On an international level, making sure that we are always looking for new ways
to give back to our communities is an essential roll in providing a better movement for
today and tomorrow.
Act Globally, Impact Locally
In a nutshell, Globalization is what continues to grow and develop our movement. BBYO
would not be the organization that it is today, without the movement that we have made
throughout the countries we are in. It can be difficult for someone without international
friends in BBYO to understand the difficulties that they can face just being in BBYO.
Having been to multiple international events, I have been able to see a glimpse of what
international Alephs and BBGs go through on a day-to-day basis, and I can tell you, that
it is very different than what I experience here in the United States. Focusing on the
improving conditions of BBYO throughout all of the countries that we encompass, is vital
to the continuation of this movement, because that is what we are. A movement. Moving
from country to country, across the world, for all Jewish people to have a home in
BBYO. As we globalize across the order, we must all come together as one community,
as one people, to help one another continue to grow. Judaism is a religion of building
and growing, as we have seen through out the Jewish history. We grow as a
community, and as a people, and expand our movement across the world to ensure a
strong Jewish population for the future.
Our Commitment to Israel
I am confident in saying that I speak for our entire order when I say that always
expressing a strong commitment to Israel is a large roll for our organization. BBYO is
the perfect place to learn about Israel, and emphasizing the importance of both Israel
and BBYO is what will ensure the security of a Jewish community for our future
generations. This April, I will be attending the March of the Living, something I have
wanted to do since before starting my high school career. It will be my first time in our
homeland, Israel, and I can assure you that it will not be my last. A love and dedication
to Israel is what brings together Jewish teens from across the entire world. Pushing the
importance of Israel will be most effective on a regional, or council level. As the leaders
from the home chapters attend regional or council events, stressing the importance of a
commitment to Israel to them, will get the idea across the entire order, as the chapter
leaders will bring it back to their chapter. Moving forward, we need to assure that
scholarship for AIPAC and ILSI are abundant, ensuring our continuous involvement with
Israel. Our increased dedication to Israel will lead to a better future for our organization,
and for the future of the Jewish People.
Alan Lang
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph Godol
“Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart. Who looks outside,
dreams. Who looks inside, awakens.”
-Carl Jung
Brothers,
We know who we are; we know what we stand for. We have looked deep inside
ourselves, and as an organization, AZA has awakened.
We overwhelmingly declared ourselves a Zionist entity. We have taken a stand against
bullying, poverty, and injustice; and we have supported efforts promoting the
environment, human rights, and world Jewry. We have an identity, we are a change
agent, we are young Jews dreaming of a better world, and then securing that very
dream.
The future of our order relies on this idea. We are here because we belong to
something bigger than ourselves; we belong to something that positively changes the
world. We improve lives every single day. So let’s:
Dream more - we will accomplish anything
We’ve looked inside and seen what we’re made of, now we look to the world for
problems to solve, and greatness to create. Most importantly, we mustn’t be afraid to
dream bigger.
Learn more - prepare ourselves for success
Our leaders will be strengthened. Every Regional Board member, Chapter Board
member, event chairman, team coach, Regional Director, and Chapter Advisor will be
trained better than ever before. Leadership Training Institutes will be more than just a
few programs at a weekend convention. Our leaders will learn to be even better
problem solvers, orators, researchers, and builders. They will be trained to dream
bigger. This will help us inspire new leaders.
Do more - we can change the world
Best Practices will be adopted. We will expand the Program Bank; and improve the
Branding Guidelines. We will adopt the highest level of professionalism. Let’s share our
successes to strengthen our base.
We will coordinate our effort to accomplish extraordinary goals. We will unify our efforts
and draw upon our strength to make the world a better place.
Together we will dream more, learn more, do more, and become more.
Priority Papers
Grow AZA & BBG
Growth is a constant battle BBYO will face. At any given time, we are always just four
years away from disappearing. However, recruitment has become easier for years, and
will continue to do so. Young Jews join our order for two reasons. First, because they
want to be a part of something larger than themselves; they want to be part of change.
Our foci around tikkun olam, specifically our Stand Up, Speak Up, and J-Serve
initiatives, and the growth thereof, will forever assist in our growth. The future of growing
our movement will rely on our ability to publicize our contributions, and become a known
entity among all Jewish teens. Increased involvement in media, including social, print,
and televised, will play a major role in our growth. The second reason teens become
part of our order is because they aren’t joining a movement – they are joining
relationships. I joined BBYO because Alephs in my region had become my brothers,
BBGs became sisters, advisors became mentors and tutors – I had joined a family.
Through strengthening our region’s leaders, by teaching Alephs and BBGs how to be
effective, supportive, members of our international family, BBYO will see continued
growth at exponential rates.
Program Excellence
Furthering program excellence is a focus that requires espousing ourselves with
professionalism. Every single Aleph, every single BBG, has attended a successful
program in their BBYO experience. Every single Aleph and BBG has been to a
meaningful Separates. Every Aleph, BBG, has been a part of a moving Shabbat
Service. To proliferate program excellence, all that needs to be done is for us to share
our successes. BBYO Program Bank will be expanded. More than just adding triedand-true programs, we will add scripts for the Separates that made even the manliest
alephs shed a tear. We will add successful fundraiser guidelines, so that there is less
guessing at efficacy, and more capital raised. We will upload the guide to the service
that influenced even the most reform Jews take the stairs on Shabbas. We will
transcribe the induction speeches that inspire our AITs and MITs to strive to become the
greatest Alephs and BBGs they can be. There is little guessing when it comes to
Program Excellence because we’ve all seen excellent programming. Let’s just share our
greatness, spread the glory.
BBYO Stand Up
Every region does great things for their communities and selected causes, and this will
only be further encouraged over the coming year. However, BBYO has over 40,000
involved teens, and it is time to push our advocacy and action to the next level. My
most impactful vision for BBYO is to introduce a Grand Stand UP. Grand Stand UP will
be the coordinated effort of every nation, region, council, Aleph and BBG, directing all
force at one project. What this specific cause might be is up to us; I assert a vote be
held each year at August Execs to decide our cause – and then a new vote at February
Execs when we rotate our focus to another venture. The past decades have laid
groundwork for an international campaign. Each region has practiced its small-scale
contributions, and have determined effective techniques to assist just causes. Now, we
institute Grand Stand UP and through unilateral strength, coordinating all of our
globalized partnerships, our strengthened programming, and our largest-ever body of
involved teens, we will change the world. This is how our priorities come together; this is
how we do great things.
Act Globally, Impact Locally
Our Globalization campaign has become phenomenal over the past few years. I almost
laugh when I read old BBYO reports about having “expanded to twelve countries,” when
we’re now active in nearly thirty. My goals for AGIL are first, to continue our expansion.
Unlike many organizations, BBYO can never be “spread too thin,” as those who would
help grow our movement are already there, making a difference in their international
communities – we simply need to expand ourselves so that those young Jews have a
platform for furthering their success: BBYO is that platform. Wherever there are Jewish
teens there should be BBYO, this has been the goal for years, and will continue being
the objective toward which we strive. Second, every Aleph and BBG needs to get to
know an international counterpart. The importance on this cannot be overstated, my
outlook on life changed when I became friends with my foreign brothers and sisters at
ILTC. Through simple friendships predicated on mutual love for soccer, I have friends in
Bulgaria. I have grown my family across borders, and I have brothers and sisters in
nations to which I’ve never been. If for nothing else than to strengthen the belief in our
religion being an international connecting force, than we must strive to continue our
global interaction. But globalization does more than that; it provides a view into the lives
of those thousands of miles away, and it provides a sense of urgency germane to
protecting Judaism.
Our Commitment to Israel
At August Execs, BBYO overwhelmingly declared itself a Zionist organization. Snaps for
that. In a tumultuous time for Israel, where it seems as if the entire world has an issue
with the presence of Jews living in a Jewish State, we must work harder than ever to
protect and advocate for our homeland. Our Speak UP initiative is a great place to
focus our unified effort. Like Teens4Israel spread awareness about the lives of Israeli
teens in the IDF, our focus ought to be placed on proliferating knowledge. So many
people are anti-Israel simply because they don’t have the facts. Teaching alone will
alleviate much of the pressure that Israel faces. BBYO will create a “Rebuttal Playbook”
about the facts and fiction surrounding the Jewish Homeland. So when protesters assert
“Israel has no right to the land,” every Aleph and BBG will have evidence to support,
“yes it does…the Balfour Declaration alone does it justice, not to mention the Dead Sea
Scrolls.” But knowledge is not enough. BBYO will continue growing attendance of ILSI,
and focus on increasing the size of its March of the Living delegation. Coordinated
efforts too, like those mentioned in “BBYO Stand UP” will also have a positive impact on
our commitment to Israel. Am Yisrael Chai.
Colin Silverman
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph Godol
In the 91st year of AZA, I, along with my board, will continue to impact the Jewish
people. Through strengthening our initiatives to Act Globally, Impact Locally, we will
spread BBYO across the world... Having thousands of Jewish teens around the world
on a given night participating in initiatives like Jserve or Global Shabbat will allow us to
measure success. My goal is not only to create the future leaders of the Jewish people,
but also to create the Jewish leaders of the future as AZA has already done with
Michael Froman, Mark Cuban, and Ambassador Philip M. Klutznick.
By expanding BBYO in all aspects of programming, recruitment, globalization, and
community service, we will be adhering to BBYO’s mission statement, giving more
Jewish teens, more meaningful Jewish experiences. We will ensure that the Jewish
future is safe by creating a generation that is proud of their Judaism, representing Jews
Five Thousand year ancestry. To expand programming it is imperative we send out
different calendaring models that prove to work, so that each region and each chapter
can calendar effectively. We must place an emphasis on recruitment and retention
because we are recruiting for the future of the Jewish people. Studies have shown that
teens involved in BBYO are more likely to be involved in Jewish life in adulthood than
those who do not partake in teenage or college Jewish activities. Through enhancing
the Meet, Record, Invite, Host, Ask method of relationship driven recruitment, each
region will be able to hit and exceed their membership goals.
Recent Anti-semitic events around the world, specifically in the United States and
Europe, affecting World Jewry, demonstrates how critical it is to unite as one crew and
be one Jewish people. Having already created a partnership with Ukraine as the Godol
of the Great Midwest Region I plan to establish similar relationships between North
American and international regions. These partnerships will be mutually beneficial,
enhancing programming and communication, creating fundraising campaigns for ISF
(fulfilling the philanthropy aspect of Stand UP) uniting to give all teens a more
meaningful Jewish experience. BBYO will be on the forefront of globalization,
connecting Jewish teens throughout the Diaspora. Furthermore, BBYO will continue to
expand, showing our support of the Jewish community around the world. When three
Israeli teenagers were kidnapped this summer it was BBYO who stood up and created
the Teens4Israel and Thank You IDF campaign. When Ukrainian Jews were under
attack from the Russian government it was BBYO who stood up for the Ukrainian
Jewish population. When the terrorist attacks occurred in France earlier this year it was
BBYO who stood up again against this anti-Semitism. Despite these tragedies we
united as one crew; We, BBYO, must continue to lead the way in Standing up for Jews
around the world.
Finally, this year we will focus on expanding all three components of Stand UP: direct
service, philanthropy, and advocacy. The 91st Grand Board will continue to partner with
organizations to create Stand UP initiatives that are relatable to today’s youth. Further,
we must make the Stand UP website the premiere tool for Jewish teens everywhere to
log all their community service hours. By growing community service in these two ways,
we will show the world that BBYO, and Jewish teens, truly value the principle of Tikkun
Olam.
BBYO has a 90 year tradition, it is now time to start to plan the next 90 years of BBYO
and the Jewish world. Together if we expand fourfold with programming, recruiting,
globalization and community service, we will be able to ensure BBYO leaves a lasting
impact on the Jewish people.
Priority Papers
Grow AZA & BBG
By expanding on the other four priorities I will be able to ensure that AZA & BBG will
grow to new heights. We must place a bigger emphasis on recruitment and retention
because we are not only recruiting for BBYO but the future of the Jewish people.
Studies have shown that teens involved in BBYO are more likely to be involved in
Jewish life in adulthood than those who do not partake in teenage or college Jewish
activities. Through enhancing the Meet, Record, Invite, Host, Ask method of
relationship driven recruitment, by having recruitment boot camps for chapters and
regions I visit, each region will be able to hit and exceed their membership goals. Next
year I will implement strategic plans to help regions grow in both the urban and
suburban setting which I have accomplished in The Great Midwest Region. The next
step to grow AZA & BGG is to create a consistent flow of new eighth graders to our
movement by growing BBYO connect. Creating Bar Mitzvah service projects for teens is
a way we can grow Stand Up and grow BBYO connect. We need to start partnerships
with other organizations besides already affiliated temples, by starting a partnership with
American Camp Association Jewish Partners we will be able to grab new Jewish teens
from across North America. Together we will commit to giving the gift of AZA by setting
recruitment goals to grow AZA & BBG.
Program Excellence
I understand programming at the chapter, regional, and international level, having been
Regional S’gan, Regional Godol, and the Programming Administrative Assistant for
International Convention 2015. BBYO being a grassroots organization means we need
each chapter to succeed. I believe the most dynamic and unique level in BBYO is the
chapter level. Chapters must be using programs must be used as a recruitment tool,
interesting programs draw new members and reinvigorates old ones. To expand
programming to the next level it is imperative we send out different calendaring models
that are proven to work, so that each region and each chapter can calendar effectively.
We will implement proven practices around The Order to continue to strengthen each
facet. Once each chapter and region calendars effectively the next step is to create a
clear, uniform, easily used program planning guide. Further, chapters must use the
uniqueness of their local areas and the community resources they provide to enhance
their programming. Implementing theses process across The Order will ensure that
each program will be able to achieve third degree program baseline.
BBYO Stand Up
Throughout the past two years Stand UP has grown throughout BBYO. We have
created the priority and started the Stand UP website. In order to grow Stand UP this
year it is imperative we grow the website, grow local grants and, and grow international
initiatives. The Stand UP website needs to be the premiere tool for Jewish teens
everywhere to log direct service and advocacy hours. The website needs to expand to
include a philanthropy counter for regions and chapters to record the money they
raised. Our dedicated members need to be able to rely on the Stand UP website as the
go to resource for Jewish Philanthropy. Chapters and regions need to be encouraged to
create and submit service project ideas competing for local grants. With these grants we
can ensure that each project is well thought out and able to help the community. This
next year we must continue to partner with organizations to create Stand UP initiatives
that are relatable to today’s youth. By creating more international resources for Stand
UP we will engage more teens across our Order. Growing Stand UP next year in all of
these aspects we will show the world that BBYO, and Jewish teens, truly value the
principle of Tikkun Olam.
Act Globally, Impact Locally
Due to recent events effecting World Jewry it is more imperative than ever to unite as
one crew and be one Jewish people. Every BBYO member, wherever they are from,
needs to know their brothers and sisters are always with them. When three Israeli
teenagers were kidnapped this summer it was BBYO who stood up and created the
Teens4Israel and Thank You IDF campaign. When Ukrainian Jews were under attack
from the Russian government it was BBYO who stood up for the Ukrainian Jewish
population. When the terrorist attacks occurred in France earlier this year it was BBYO
who stood up again against this anti-Semitism. We, BBYO, must continue to lead the
way in Standing up for Jews around the world. We must continue and grow our support
for international teens to make a difference in the world overcoming the challenges of
the diaspora. Having already created a partnership with Ukraine as the Godol of the
Great Midwest Region I plan to establish similar relationships between North American
and international regions. Having each region go through the three steps of creating,
building, and uniting BBYO will be on the forefront of globalization, connecting Jewish
teens throughout the Diaspora. Creating a partnership by establishing relationships with
the JDC's in each community. Building the partnership through communication,
programming and fundraising. Finally uniting as one crew to strengthen BBYO in both
the local and global community. Furthermore, BBYO will continue to expand next year,
showing our support of the Jewish community around the world.
Our Commitment to Israel
Our commitment to Israel comes at a time where much of the global community does
not show support for Israel or a Jewish State. Due to these circumstances it is upmost
important BBYO strengthens our commitment to Israel just like we did in 1948 when we
recognized Israel as an official state. This year we must create international resources
about the importance of Israel and about current events. We must use these resources
to create Israel advocacy programs for chapter and regions as the advocacy aspect of
Stand UP. We must continue to build our valuable partnership with AIPAC and give
more of our members and opportunity to participate in AIPAC events. BBYO sends
more teens to Israel than any other North American agency. It is important we
rejuvenate the International Leadership Seminar in Israel to bring teens from around the
globe together in Israel to learn unprecedented leadership skills to bring home to their
chapter, region, and life. BBYO must continue to strengthen our partnership with
Maccabi Tzair Israel to instill BBYO's presence in the local Israeli community. BBYO
must continue to lead the way for Jewish teens in the diaspora to show their
commitment to Israel.
Yosi Vogel
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph Godol
My Brother Alephs,
It was with the intention of creating a worldwide Jewish fraternity, that Sam Beber called
a meeting on May 3rd, 1924.
90 years later, we continue to uphold our principles, celebrate our history, and honor the
vision of our founders. We aim for and reach excellence, and are committed to growing
the movement we’re each a part of.
Our past 90 years show that we can achieve anything if we stand together. It’s time to
make a difference, show the world the power of Jewish youth, and continue working to
make this a movement for every Jewish teen, everywhere.
It’s time for the next 90 years, and it starts with us.
From San Francisco to Sofia, our movement is composed by individuals from a range of
backgrounds. It’s time we work towards the strengthening of every piece of our
movement every Jewish community and teen, across the world. Pledged to our values,
a renewed climate of collaboration, and the success of every Jewish community and
every Jewish teen, we will achieve a strong future for our movement, and for the Jewish
people.
It’s time we make visits count, transforming them to fit the needs of our movement and
spend time focused on the needs of every region, council, and chapter. Together we’ll
redefine programming excellence, reinvent and revamp Stand UP & Speak UP to
inspire, motivate, and give more teens the opportunity to get involved. We’ll grow AZA &
BBG by focusing on successful relationship driven recruitment on the local level. And
we’ll always maintain a commitment to a strong grassroots level of BBYO, making sure
the chapters and the members are always at the forefront of our focus.
We are the collective story of a people who were scattered across the world. Yet we are
the collective story of a people that managed to remain a single, united family. We are
the collective story of a nation that time and time again was doomed for destruction. Yet
we are the collective story of a people that out of ruins, rose to new life. We are the
story of survival, we are the story of success and we are the story of a bright Jewish
future. The diversity and expansiveness of our movement is a testament to the new life,
a testament to the survival and bright future of our people. United As One Crew isn’t just
the motto of our movement, it’s the title of our collective story.
I envision an order where brotherhood shows no bounds, where every teen, regardless
of their background, is an equal contributor. I envision an order where Jewish men are
proud of their roots and heritage and showcase their pride by making their heartbeat
even louder. I envision an order where every Aleph feels a deep bond to his fellow
brothers and feels compelled to play a part in shaping the future of our fraternity.
Let’s change the world for the better this year, and let’s start with ourselves. Let’s
commit to making the Aleph Zadik Aleph a strong home for every Jewish teen and make
sure that every Aleph around the world has a voice in this movement.
I'm not running for Grand Aleph Godol to be heard, but to make your voice heard; and
make the change our order needs to excel in the 21st century.
The next 90 years start with me, start with you, start with us let’s make it happen.
Priority Papers
Grow AZA & BBG
BBYO teaches us that strength comes from pluralism, diversity, and pride in who we
are. Since our founding, we've believed in the power of every voice and the ability we
have to make a difference. We’re a home and a beacon of light in the lives of Jewish
teens, where they can be themselves and feel welcomed. Growing AZA & BBG is about
giving more teens the experiences we’ve been blessed to have – about upholding our
commitment to being a home for every Jewish teen everywhere. In 2011, BBYO set a
goal to ensure the continuity of the Jewish experience from adolescence into adulthood
by impacting 70,000 Jewish teens by 2016 through meaningful experiences – and that’s
exactly what we’ll do. We’ll encourage regions, councils, & chapters across the order to
uphold the revamped relationship building recruitment model. We’ll put an emphasis on
taking prospective teens through the know us, like us, join us, lead us recruitment track;
using community engagement to drive Jewish teens into our regions/councils &
chapters and become the proud Alephs & BBGs that lead our movement into tomorrow.
Let’s redefine the metrics which indicate success to measure individual AZA & BBG
experiences, inclusivity, and leadership engagement to ensure that every Aleph & BBG
is getting the best of what this movement can offer. Let’s work together to grow AZA &
BBG and give every Jewish teen a home and the ability to feel strength through
pluralism, diversity, and pride in who they are.
Program Excellence
Programs are meant to inspire, our folds are meant to attract, our experiences are
meant to engage. Striving towards program excellence can’t just be a phrase we throw
around, it’s time we take tangible steps to ascertain that every teen across our order is
experiencing quality and meaningful programming. Since 1928, when Dr. Boris D.
Bogen introduced the Five Fold Plan, we have been deeply committed to well-rounded
programming. In collaboration with the Grand Aleph S’gan, Regional/Council and
Chapter S’ganim, we will institutionalize these folds and through training sessions, new
resources, and revamped programming strategies to ensure these folds adequately are
enriching programming across the order. We’ll transform the rarely used program bank
into a more interactive and personable resource while creating a programming
assistance hotline to facilitate excellence in every program planned. If money is what’s
holding back your regions/councils and chapters from achieving programming
excellence, let’s fix that! Let’s work with our donors and raise funds to create more local
programming grants that will be distributed directly to the grassroots to strengthen local
programming! And in just one year, when I’m hopefully honored to welcome you all to
my home region for AZA BBG IC 2016, we will revolutionize what programming
excellence means with the most incredible programming our movement has ever seen.
It’s in us to keep making our programs and experiences count, let’s work together to
make it happen.
BBYO Stand Up
For a generation that many consider a generation of apathy, Alephs & BBGs are
showing the world the power of youth and the willingness and success at making a
difference. BBYO has always stood committed to making a positive change, and since
our founding we’ve taken on projects big and small that have changed lives and
changed the world. The deep urge to serve held by Alephs and BBGs leads me to
commit to giving you more opportunities to serve and making Stand UP campaigns
more accessible. It’s time that we provide more wide-ranging service project
opportunities by expanding the new chapter stand up initiatives, increasing frequency to
one a week, making initiatives even easier to put into action, & giving Alephs & BBGs
the opportunity to create their own initiatives! We’ll work to encourage regional/council &
chapter Stand UP causes and the use of a revamped Stand Up website to complement
service, advocacy, and support for their selected Stand Up cause. We’ll bring back
BBYO teen issue summits to serve as opportunities for education on key issues facing
our world, training teens on how to resolve these issues in their local communities, while
giving opportunities for hands on service. Our end goal will be to channel this energy for
service and give more opportunities and experiences for members of our order to make
a difference in their local communities and this world.
Act Globally, Impact Locally
Our movement holds not one single nationality, not one single anthem, not one single
language, and we’re not represented by one single flag – we’re AZA & BBG and while
we show pride in our individual backgrounds, not one defines us all. Everything we do in
BBYO encompasses globalization since we are a global Jewish youth movement. We
Speak UP together, we Stand UP together, we Grow AZA & BBG together, we program
together – globalization defines this attitude of cohesion. This year, using my expertise
in movement expansion to new countries, we’ll welcome five new countries into our
global movement and make AZA & BBG a home to more teens across the world. We’ll
work to make globalization more applicable to the individual Aleph & BBG by bridging
the gaps between globalization and passions that teens have across the order. We’ll
expand ‘Globalization Is’, this year’s groundbreaking globalization initiative, to
incorporate even more model programs, resources, & fundraisers! Together we will
ensure communities across the world are achieving programming excellence and
partaking in our movement initiatives, thus providing the meaningful experiences we
yearn for. Our commitment to creating these personable connections to globalization,
combined with our work on a movement wide level working with donors and supporters,
we will grow ISF fundraising by 25% and utilize that money to give more Jewish teens,
more meaningful Jewish experiences. With a renewed sense of collaboration and a
redefinition of globalization we will achieve a more global and cohesive movement.
Our Commitment to Israel
Ever since the day in 1948 when the Aleph Zadik Aleph recognized the State Of Israel
prior to independence, Alephs & BBGs have been amongst her most outspoken
supporters and advocates. In order to ensure a commitment to advocacy by every
member of our movement, we must ensure we create opportunities for Israeli
identification and connection. By strengthening our partnerships with Israeli
organizations, Alephs & BBGs will have the opportunity to connect directly with teens in
Israel and develop personable relationships that will nurture a deep desire to learn more
and advocate for the State Of Israel. AZA & BBG will mobilize through Teens4Israel, our
revamped Speak UP campaign, and use those resources for Israel programming and
education on the local level in every BBYO region, council, chapter, and community
across the world. We’ll work with pro-Israel political advocacy organizations to create
simple grassroots tasks that Alephs & BBGs across the world can complete to support
Israel. All while we continue to collaborate and encourage individual involvement with
AIPAC, StandWithUs, CIJA, CJPAC, and other pro-Israel organizations to train our
leaders to be top pro-Israel advocates. It’s through commitment to Israel education on
every level of BBYO that we will foster meaningful connections with the State Of Israel,
that will compel Alephs & BBGs to Speak UP for Israel today, and tomorrow.
Joseph Warren
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph Godol
My Brother Alephs,
My year as Grand Aleph Godol will impact the future of the Jewish people
because I will work harder than ever before to improve our order to the best that it can
be. I will do this by putting an emphasis on two major, key points: Globalization, and
renewing our emphasis on the chapters. Globalization is a key aspect in the future of
the Jewish people, by moving BBYO into new countries that we have not yet been
exposed, and strengthening our movement in areas of the world where we are relatively
weak as a movement, we will be able to maximize the amount of meaningful, Jewish
experiences worldwide that will result in a bigger population of Jews who respect the
religion, in turn aiding in yielding a more vibrant Jewish future for the world of tomorrow.
By globalizing, we expand the amount of potential leaders and advocates not only for
BBYO but for the Jewish people themselves, and the state of Israel. Also, as i have said
time and time again in my platform, priority papers, qualifications video, and general
questions, everything begins and occurs at the chapter level. In order to strengthen our
movement as a whole, we need to renew our emphasis on the chapter as that is where
everything that makes our movement great and strong, stems from. What I will do in
order to increase our Global impact, includes creating new ILN Globalization
Committees that will open up more international leadership opportunities and act as a
new, direct way to increase BBYO globalization through teen leadership. With respect to
this idea, raising more money and support for I$F, to allow international BBYO teen
leaders to attend summer programs such as CLTC and ILTC in order to give them the
training and experience to go back to their given countries and do more to grow the
movement in those places will majorly impact the way we meet the international goals
and initiatives we are trying to meet. Working on the chapter level instead of the
regional level is vital to the growth of this organization. The chapter is where members
are recruited and the most influential programming is created. However we cannot
assume all of our members have the potential or the right tools to be the leaders
necessary for our order to grow. We can ensure this is by increasing international
chapter training and communication, and creating international initiatives that chapters
are interested in, by making them both fun to your average general member, as well as
beneficial to the general well-being of the chapter. If elected into the 91st Grand board
as Grand Aleph Godol, I will work with the rest of the Grand Board in order to re-vamp
our bank of international initiatives in order to make them more appealing to the chapter
levels, as well as put out an open invitation for my chapter Godolim Counterparts to join
their fellow Regional Godolim counterparts at international execs, offering the same
leadership training I will be giving to the regional Godolim, and including them in helping
setting goals for their region. All in the interest of yielding a brighter Jewish Future.
Priority Papers
Grow AZA & BBG
One of my biggest goals as the 91st Grand Aleph Godol is to meet our international
membership goal that as an order we always seem to fall short of. I believe the two foci
we need in order to accomplish this are: a stronger, renewed emphasis on "the chapter"
and increased growth in BBYO located outside of North America. As far as an increased
emphasis on "the chapter" goes, it has to be understood that all of our recruitment takes
place at the chapter level. Due to this, increasing international to chapter
communications and helping regions set recruitment goals at the chapter level will help
us move closer to our goal. To help chapters reach their goals, I will help chapters build
relationships with other local Jewish entities ie. JCC's and synagogues, and work with
my Godolim counterparts to utilizing their boards significantly increases recruitment
throughout their chapter, region, and the order itself. When it comes to growing the
international BBYO chapters, it is important to do two major things: focus on raising
money for I$F in order to help get international representatives to summer programs,
such as CLTC and ILTC, to can learn recruitment strategies and receive formal BBYO
leadership training which will result in stronger leaders abroad, and create a
Globalization committee through ILN that along with Global partners can work efficiently
with a focus on both spreading BBYO to countries that have not yet been exposed to
BBYO, and expand deeper into the countries that have been.
Program Excellence
As my advisor always says "Getting prospects in the door, that's easy, but without fun,
rich, strong multi-fold programming, you won't be able to make them stay."
Programming excellence is the key in the success of chapters due to one thing:
membership, both paid and active, relies largely on how strong your programming is. If
we aspire to grow AZA and BBG and continue to have a big, global impact as a
movement, programming excellence must start at the chapter level, where members are
recruited and our members’ leadership skills are molded. It is vital to train the future
leaders at the chapter level to create multi fold BBYO programming so that they can get
their prospects to register and become active,which in turn makes the movement as a
whole grow. This molds our future leaders to be able to one day again, train the younger
members in this brand of programming excellence that helps the international order
succeed.
BBYO Stand Up
BBYO Stand UP is an initiative widely implemented on the chapter, and regional level
currently. It shows the ways in which BBYO, as the predominant Jewish movement that
it is, gives back to the community in every way it can. The international order as a whole
has raised countless dollars in support of selfless endeavors that show our commitment
to the well being of the global community as a whole. All it will take to get everything out
of the Stand UP initiative as possible, is to have all regions set Stand UP requirements
for their subsequent chapters to reach. When it comes to both choosing a stand up
cause, and the amount of money that must be raised for that cause by the end of their
programming year. If this is implemented in every region across the order, there is no
doubt in my mind that the amount of funds raised by BBYO for Stand UP causes as a
whole will be unparalleled and this initiative will be operating at the highest level
necessary, and possible.
Act Globally, Impact Locally
Acting Globally in order to impact locally is exactly what my campaign for the position of
the 91st Grand Aleph Godol is all about. Working to increase chapter participation in
international initiatives, making efforts to bring more kids, national and international, to
summer programs via I$F and scholarships, creating a strong ISN Globalization
committee in order to expose BBYO to as many countries as possible with relatively
strong Jewish populations. These are all things that we can do as an international order,
that I will do, to act globally in order to impact locally. Even simply initiating more
straightforward international communication to the chapter levels in order to help impact
their communities, is something that we can implement and that I will do in order to
achieve a local impact.
Our Commitment to Israel
Under my guiding leadership, our commitment to Israel will remain stronger than ever.
We will continue the successful Speak Up and Global Shabbat international initiatives,
as those have done an amazing job of keeping judaic beliefs and traditions in BBYO,
and have taught the next generation of Jewish leaders how to advocate for Israel when
the rest of the world will not. When it comes to our commitment to Israel, some ideas
that I have that will strengthen our commitment as a movement include a pen pal
system initiative, where a chapter that is interested can take part in by being assigned a
pen pal in BBYO’s sister movement that exists in Israel. This giving the Jewish teens
both here in North American BBYO, as well as International BBYO, a chance to feel
more connected to our homeland as well as have first hand updates on current events
and advancements in several different fields occurring in Israel. Resulting from this new
initiative, along with continuing our old, great initiatives will without a doubt make our
commitment to Israel stronger and more relevant as an international order than ever
before.
Seth Betman
Candidate for the high and honorable positon of the 24th Grand Aleph S’gan
When I first joined AZA, I didn’t understand what impact this movement truly could make
on myself, on my community, and on the world. However, when the upperclassmen of
my chapter showed me what could be accomplished, I decided I wanted to accomplish,
and then pass this mindset on to others. As Grand Aleph S’gan, I want to continue this
drive to inspire others to achieve greatness. I want others to feel the drive and
dedication I have, and truly make BBYO their passion.
To be a strong movement, we need exceptional programming that not only brings teens
in, but keeps them involved. I will provide guidance and ideas for others so they can feel
this success, thus causing them to become more passionate about our Jewish
Community, and driving them to give back. With my guidance, the people I will inspire
will then use programming to inspire others, and we will start a chain-reaction of
incredible programming today that will result in the creation of passionate Jewish
leaders tomorrow. As Grand Aleph S’gan, I will teach them the skills that they need to
be successful programmers, organizers, and well-rounded Jewish Leaders.
Programming Excellence is a common term we use, but not many know what this truly
means. This is why, if elected, I will first educate all Regional S’ganim about the
Programming Excellence Guide. Then, the Regional S’ganim will take that and educate
their chapter counterparts at their regional executive conferences, thus allowing all parts
of the Order to fully understand the meaning of programming exellence. But reading a
guide is not enough, and it is very likely that this will not be enough for a chapter to just
suddenly start programming better. If elected, I will send out a survey to all Regional
S’ganim, for them to suggest the chapters in their regions that they feel need my
personal guidance to give them that extra push.
After dedicating myself to the ideals of this movement, and after being the best Aleph I
can be, I feel I have gained a lot of knowledge about how our movement works, and
how to improve it successfully. As Grand Aleph S’gan, I will not only bring counterpart
communication to the next level, but I will give any Aleph the opportunity to grow his
knowledge about our movement if he so chooses. This is why I will have specific times
during the week that I will have “office hours” - a time in which ANY Aleph, and not just
S’ganim, could reach out to me, ask questions, and gain knowledge on how to become
the best Aleph they could be.
International Convention is the focal point of our entire movement. It is one of the three
largest gatherings of Jews in North America. It’s a game changer, and every year it’s
getting bigger and becoming more iconic. International Convention 2016 will display the
strongest programming our Order has to offer, being a staple for the teens participating
to see what strong programming looks like. This monumental convention will host the
most community involvement seen at an International Convention, stressing the
importance of the Day of Service. Overall, International Convention 2016 will be a
convention like no other, and it’s sure to impress BBYO teens, Jewish leaders, and the
Baltimore community alike.
I am here for you. Just as the upperclassman in my chapter passed to me the drive and
dedication to improve our order, I will pass this mindset to more and more Alephs each
day as I serve as your 91st Grand Aleph S’gan.
Hunter Cohn
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph S’gan
My Brother Alephs,
You wake up and crave a bowl of cereal, you imagine holding a trophy symbolizing
you’re the best at something, and you crave praise from someone you respect. It's all
the same feeling -- hunger. It's what we should aspire for every time we plan a
program. Its absence is hindering us from our maximum potential. As Jews, we've been
mistreated, we've been persecuted, and we've been oppressed and yet, we are
incredibly resilient. It's time we channel that hunger and resiliency into our
programming.
The hunger to inspire, incite, and invest: inspire the new brothers that were once like
us; incite them to act upon commitment and love; encourage them to invest in the
improvement of this order and the world. We will spread our hunger through every
program by improving, not reinventing them. Our programs are sound, IC is great, and
AZA is doing well; but there remains untapped potential. As the world’s largest
pluralistic Jewish youth group, it’s our responsibility to spearhead the mission of
ensuring the future of the Jewish People and good will not suffice. So how do we move
from good to exceptional?
It starts with fixing the small inefficient idiosyncrasies in programming: eliminating
downtime between rotations, presenting members with options after they’ve been
eliminated from tournaments, and creating inventive ways of keeping program
attendees engaged. It requires a supportive environment; as when members are in
their comfort zone they’re more inclined to push beyond their boundaries and expand
their horizons.
As programs grow in strength, members will increasingly return to chapter events and
our mission -more Jewish teens, more meaningful Jewish experiences- will move to
fruition. Without Programming Excellence, our mission is needlessly harder. So let’s
use IC 2016 as a model for flawless programs, and emphasize excellence in every
service, oneg, and limmud. No program will be glanced at and passed on; rather, each
detail will be scrutinized meticulously and analyzed until the last detail. Through this
close attention and oversight, opportunities will arise so that AZA and BBG will
exemplify the influence and power they hold as the future leaders of the Jewish People.
Our new found hunger will shape this dream into a reality.
We program, thinking the best way to do so is by catering towards the desires of
younger members, but our focus should be towards taking risks and pushing members
to open their minds to an array of different environments, that despite their uniqueness
are still supportive and comforting.
The training wheels we put on when we program leave us in safe and comfortable
positions, but now is the time to take them off and move forward. Let us now assume
the responsibility for our future. Let us take the risks necessary to forge new
opportunities for growth. Let us extend our legacies for success and survival. Through
the utilization of Programming Excellence, we will ensure a future of Judaic prosperity
and that hundreds of years in the future, we will have contributed to the fulfilment of the
promise to Abraham, that the Jewish People will be someday be as numerous as stars
in the sky.
As your 91st Grand Aleph S’gan, it will be my mission to promote universal
programming excellence, and to revitalize the Jewish spirit and passion within the
second largest gathering of Jewish Teens in North America.
Fraternally Submitted With Undying Love,
I forever remain,
Aleph Hunter Ryan Cohn
Proud Candidate for Your 91st Grand Aleph S’gan
Cole Pergament
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph S’gan
BBYO is a culture. We continue to exemplify the Jewish community as ambitious teens
and embrace a collective responsibility in the desire to change the world. As we move
forward, Judaic prosperity within BBYO will yield a vibrant future by continually
recognizing opportunity in our order. Gentleman, the future is bright. Through larger ISF
contributions, we will consistently provide equal opportunity, regardless of the religious
commitment or location. The 80% of Jewish teens who are currently unaffiliated will
seek to capitalize on the opportunity to join thousands of Alephs and recognize their
potential. These men belong in our chapters, deserve Jewish role models, and should
be given the chance to realize their Jewish identities.
Chapter Excellence.
I want to inspire chapter growth, while maintaining brotherhood as an integral part of our
achievement. Chapters that achieve their goals will be utilized to advance global
initiatives. Successful chapters will be encouraged to follow Stand UP, Speak UP, Israel
advocacy, and charity, which will be implemented into their programs. We must also
promote simplified programming utilizing a few folds prior to implementing whole fold
programming. To provide a more unique experience, interchapter programming will
engage more of our global community. AZA must also ensure that each region is given
appropriate attention to facilitate improvement. Alephs of the order must continue to
support one another.
Powerful Global Interactions.
Communication has forged an essential part of our unity as an order. Going forward,
AZA and BBG in America will construct a stronger connection to our global community.
Increased use of communication will lead to a greater global connection. It is imperative
that each country embodies a leadership and chapter-oriented atmosphere. More teens
will be able to accelerate improvement and serve as vital components of international
programming.
International Convention 2016: An Innovative Experience.
International Convention 2016 will seek to accomplish a creative environment where
regions from all over the world can express themselves through BBYO bands,
inspirational keynote speakers, and a reflection of the positive achievements of
chapters, councils, and regions in this order. Through this interaction, our membership
will augment and allow for the spread of our initiatives and strengthened influence of
globalization. It is of crucial importance that chapters, councils, and regions around the
world are celebrated for their contributions to society. When teens leave convention
next year, each region will be well equipped to exhibit how BBYO can change the lives
of every Jewish teen worldwide.
We are the men of the Aleph Zadik Aleph and we will drive the Jewish people forward.
Jake Davis
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 24th Grand Aleph Moreh
My Brother Alephs,
We are in the midst of a crisis. The Jewish People are at a critical point which we must
act upon. More and more every day, Jewish teens are losing interest in our religion after
their Bar and Bat mitzvot. Losing these kids is the first step in losing our religion, losing
this Order. The Grand Order of the Aleph Zadik Aleph thrives off the passion of its
members, and to continue our excellence we must continue a strong intake of young
Jewish leaders. We must bring back those who have lost their way, those who have lost
their faith. We must show them the love and passion of AZA, because once they’ve truly
experienced BBYO, we have saved them from a life without their Jewish faith. This is
how we will impact the Jewish People.
Recruitment is the first effort to ensure the strength of the Jewish future. Bringing young
Alephs and BBGs into this movement, showing them what BBYO can provide for them,
that is how we protect the future of our people.
It all begins with image. With the help of leaders within, BBYO must begin a rebranding
process to reach out to groups who previously received little to no focus. By this I mean
marketing to sports teams, to the kids who are “technically Jewish” but don’t practice.
Providing these kids with a group in which they feel comfortable and happy, while also
implementing Jewish values; that is how we better the Jewish People. That social
atmosphere, without the overbearing Judaism of Hebrew School, is the perfect recipe
for a successful movement.
There is no doubt BBYO is elite amongst Jewish youth groups. Now, my goal is to make
BBYO elite amongst any social group. When these kids talk about their regional
conventions or chapter meetings, I want their non-Jewish friends to be jealous that they
don’t have such an incredible movement to become a part of.
BBYO should be a no-brainer for teens entering the second semester of their eighth
grade years. We can accomplish this by not only expanding our already-successful
Connect program, but by utilizing synagogues and Jewish day schools to spark the idea
and concept of “BBYO” into their student’s minds. Marketing BBYO earlier and earlier in
life is an excellent way to ease the true eminence of our movement. BBYO should
become a natural step in a young Jewish boy’s life cycle: birth, bris, Bar Mitzvah, BBYO.
Growing Our Movement in new and creative ways is my primary focus this year. Once
recruited, the excellence in programming and the love that Alephs share will secure
members into this order. The conversations with older members, the inspiring programs
at conventions, the Good and Welfares between people who have become your
brothers, that is what will keep kids around.
That is what will keep the Jewish People around.
That is what will keep the Jewish People thriving.
As your 24th Grand Aleph Moreh, I have no doubt that we can resolve our impending
crisis. We will combat the dangers of the Bar and Bat mitzvah drop off rate simply with
the power of BBYO, and the power of the Aleph Zadik Aleph. As we recruit members
into BBYO, we recruit them into something even larger than this movement. BBYO is
one of the first steps in the long journey of Jewish faith. It is a step that will be reached
this year and for years to come.
Fraternally submitted with undying love for the strength of this order and the potential
ahead,
I forever remain,
Aleph Jake Samuel Davis.
Joseph Mabry
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph Mazkir
It is the duty of all of any Grand or International Board member to take the steps needed
to build a shining Jewish future for years to come. L’dor va’dor, from generation to
generation, is the constant remind that we must build for those who come next like
people have for thousand of years before us. When we focus on the people we work for
then a strong future is guaranteed.
The movement priority to “Act Globally, Impact Locally” depicts what the Grand Board’s
actions should build to. Even though large-scale programs that take place, such as
International Convention, bringing teens from around the world together for this
weekend is amazing because it gives everyone in attendance something to bring home.
It’s not the new t-shirt in their bag that is going to change the Jewish future but the
experiences they can take with them. Giving “more Jewish teens more Jewish
experience” is the BBYO mission statement and the Experiences we give Jewish teens
are what build the Jewish future.
I believe Counterpart work is the corner to elevating our teen’s experience. Having a
new counterpart is like making a new friend, forging a strong relationship makes you
want to work harder for them and vice versa. Counterpart work also embodies a
relationship that allows you to help teens that are impacting locally begin to act on a
global scale. If every Grand board member is an exemplary counterpart then we can
lead by example for all the people we work with and allow excellence to trickle down
throughout the Order of AZA.
Once we have a team of excellent Alephs to work with from around the world
connecting them so they can learn from each other become the next greatest priority. A
Chain is only as strong as it’s weakest link and by weaving a large interconnected web
of Jewish teen we can truly act Globally.
Like I would work hard for each of my Counterparts, they should be able to work
together to build great things. I want to give them the tools to do so. From videos with
PDF releases to counterpart calls, giving Alephs the tools they need to be successful on
their own will brighten the Jewish future.
AZA turns a generation of meek teens into a generation of manly men. My only hope is
the Grand board will help facilitate this transition and will help Jewish teens want to
carry on and improve the experience of the next generation.
Alex Meyers
Candidate for the high and honorable positon of the 91st Grand Aleph Mazkir
Today, BBYO is so much more than that first chapter started 91 years ago; we are
thousands of brothers strong spanning across various cities, states, countries, and even
continents. BBYO is not only making a huge impact on the future of the Jewish people
within the United States, but is also shaping the future of the Jewish people globally.
By starting new chapters, expanding to different cities, and bringing our movement to
more countries, we are making an impact on the Jewish people and are shaping the
future leaders of this world, one member at a time.
My name is Alex Myers and I am a proud candidate to be your 91st Grand Aleph
Mazkir. As Grand Aleph Mazkir, I would strive to create the strongest relationships
BBYO has ever had with its teens around the globe by strengthening the bonds
between chapters, councils, and regions here in the United States and abroad.
Globalization is such a key aspect and has such amazing potential in BBYO. It not only
allows members to make a difference in people’s lives worldwide, but it also allows
teens to connect with other teens who they may have not had a chance to know
otherwise. The opportunity to meet people from other states, countries, and continents
allows us to learn from one another while sharing the same passion for our
organization. For each new teen that becomes active in BBYO, we are not just
strengthening our movement, but strengthening the Jewish community for decades to
come. Through programming, fundraisers, philanthropy, and education, every member
is given the opportunity to grow and thrive in this great order. Teens have the
opportunity to connect to their Judaism, whether religiously, culturally, or both, in a fun
and meaningful way. This is what BBYO is all about. In our 91-year history, AZA has
made an impact on tens of thousands of teen’s lives worldwide, but that doesn’t mean
we should stop now. There is always an opportunity to strive for improvement in every
fold and there is always another teen just around the corner ready to become a part of
our BBYO family. By adding more leaders, more involved members, and more brothers
to our fraternity, AZA can only become stronger and our reach can only get wider.
BBYO gives every member the opportunity to grow and strive as a leader. The skills
members learn help them today, as well as prepares them for their future. ILTC must be
a positive experience and collaborative working environment. Our leaders must learn
tangible skills that they can take back to their respective regions. This will strengthen
the entire order. Every region and several countries must be represented to create and
inspire leaders who will give back on the regional and local level – this is where we truly
make our impact.
No matter how many hardships the Jewish people have faced, we have always moved
forward and succeeded together. Similarly, BBYO has continued to expand and
succeed. Yet it is not enough. We must continue to push, expand, and offer amazing
opportunities. We as a Jewish people need to move forward, to learn, to grow, to
become leaders, not only for today, but also for the generations to follow. This will allow
others to experience the same traditions and rituals of Judaism for many years to come.
BBYO gives its members that strong foundation to go out in the world and lead the
Jewish Community. Let’s work together to make the Jewish people stronger for today
and for the future!
Matthew Rabinowitz
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph Mazkir
Gentleman, welcome to the 91st year of our order. We have grown tremendously; from
a small time group of independent and empowered men in Omaha, Nebraska, to a
country-wide organization, to a world-wide movement.
We have capitalized on a magnificent opportunity. Our founders and predecessors
established a community they meant for us to cultivate; they have enabled us to sow
widespread relationships. These connections unify us, educate us, and culture us.
Like those leaders before me, I have the pleasure of telling you that we are bigger than
ever before. Our growing numbers bestow upon us an opportunity to make a growing
impact. I could quantify these numbers for you, but there exists something much more
important: the way we use them.
“Strength lies in differences, not in similarities“-Stephen R. Covey
We are cohesive because we are a fraternity. Judaism, having consistently overcome
and survived decades of Anti-Semitism and genocide, plays catalyst in our lives day
after day because of the powerful history we share. For 91 years, our likenesses have
guided us through our success. Today, we stand together as a global movement and
realize our similarities are a remarkably powerful part of the Aleph Zadik Aleph.
Yet, our people’s differences are untouched. They are as powerful an asset as those
assets that we share. Today is the day that we realize that these differences do not
debilitate us. We will embrace them and build the strongest personal relationships
possible because we will realize that those personal relationships enable our global
movement to exist in the first place.
We cannot bear to measure our growth only through our numbers we act globally
because doing so conditions us to inspire our brothers and sisters in more personal
ways.
How will these personal and local impacts grow our movement? They will inspire our
brothers to live their lives globally. We will integrate our all-inclusive mindset into our
regions, councils, and chapters. It will become Tradition. Globalization will no longer be
a separate track.
Today, as we discover the power of internal growth, our movement will grow the way it’s
meant to on such a massive scale. In order to progress, we must strengthen our bonds,
not simply multiply them. We will place a more prevalent value on a foundation of
beneficial relationships driven by personal connections. We will not strain ourselves to
make connections with other communities, we will bring communities closer to us.
My brothers, as we are gathered here today, I desire that you ask yourself a question:
What kind of growth does our Grand Order Need? With numbers in the thousands,
represented in over thirty countries, we have already globalized. Technology enables us
to transcend above the massive oceans that slice through our community and connect
with our brothers all over the world. We do not need more connections. We need
stronger ones. As the current and future leaders of the global Jewish community, today
is the day we finish building our bridges and bring our world so much closer together.
Sam Scribner
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 91st Grand Aleph Mazkir
While serving as your Grand Aleph Mazkir, the future of the Jewish people are in
excellent hands. This is because of my personal policy, which is to make sure no voice
goes unheard. It will be as if all 45,000 members are on board as well. Trying to
positively affect the future of the Jewish people by oneself is nearly impossible. It takes
more than just great ideas to make a true impact on a group of people such as
ourselves. It takes perseverance, creativity, and drive by multiple personalities to see
that desired effect. As Grand Aleph Mazkir, I plan on utilizing anyone and everyone in
BBYO. The relationships people will make and networks they will build will unify the
Jewish people to become prominent.
We, the Jewish people, will ultimately be a stronger force than we are today. I will focus
on building relationships and making connections with people all around the world.
Networking with all kinds of people will immensely help the process of expanding BBYO
to even more foreign nations. That being said, naturally, another primary focus of mine
will be to implement BBYO in countries that have yet to be blessed with it. Working with
the Global Networking Committee, we will identify locations around the world that will
hopefully be willing to start BBYO in their communities. By exposing BBYO to teens in
places that have not experienced it, will help them connect with their Judaism, as BBYO
did for me. With finding this sense of Judaism, it will enhance their desire to be active in
their respective Jewish Communities around the world. Expanding BBYO, and growing
our Movement, will give the world even more passion driven, and creative minds. By
raising at least 5% for ISF funds, we will definitively be able to send at least 5
International teens to a BBYO Summer Experience that isn't Perlman, ensuring that
more teens have the necessary traits to become compassionate leaders in their Jewish
Communities. This is all essential in making sure that our people will thrive for
generations.
As Grand Aleph Mazkir, I plan on instituting varying means of communication methods
to the fullest to help strengthen the bonds of each Aleph. Specifically, I will create a
broadly available BBYO app. Every Aleph and BBG will be able to have all the
information they ever wanted or needed to know about BBYO at their fingertips. Making
all of this information feasible, teens will be able to help grow their local areas,
expanding BBYO and the unmatchable traits it brings to Jewish teens. Having BBYO
Live chats happen once every two months or so will only make teens from across the
world feel more connected to each other. Reviving and reinventing the Global
Networking Committee’s Blog, and making it more accessible to everyone, members
from all over the earth will be able to share positive stories about how BBYO has
impacted their life, resulting in everyone's voice being heard.
Every single member deserves their voice to be heard, and through dedicating my life
as an Aleph on your Grand Board, every voice will be loud and clear.
Elliott Davis
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 27th Grand Aleph Shaliach
AZA is changing the world. What we do now will not only impact the future of our
fraternity, but the entirety of the Jewish people. We will embrace what it means to be
Jewish and find meaning within our religion. We will build pride in who we are. In the
upcoming year, we will focus on enhancing Jewish experiences, Speaking Up for Israel,
and Standing Up for what we believe in.
In contemporary society where anti-Semitism is on the rise, it is essential that we unite
as the Jewish people, our religion motivating us to move forward. The first step is
through education, to understand the common bond of our Judaism and how it can
impact our daily lives. We need to address the threats toward Jews and learn to combat
them- learning about the resources provided and developing a campaign to make
everyone aware and safe. We will work to overcome this hatred by empowering each of
us and the future generation. Similarly, we will promote the cultural aspect of Judaismthe sense of community. Judaism will be incorporated via team building and meaningful
conversations as an essential component of brotherhood.
Public opinion is turning on Israel, so we must counter the criticism with positive social
media outreach, staying knowledgeable, and connecting on a personal level. We cannot
let the one anti-Israel post convert an Israel advocate to one against Zionism. So, we
will launch a social media campaign encouraging Alephs to share news articles and
facts that demonstrate Israel’s dedication to justice and advancement. Next, it is crucial
that we are acquainted with the latest updates in Israel news, to shut down any
misconceptions among our peers and have influential discussions with those who hold
opposing viewpoints. This will be achieved through creating a Pre-IC or Teen Issue
Summit dedicated to learning about the topic. Nevertheless, the direct connections will
strongly amplify our desire to support Israel. I want each region to have the opportunity
to have a panel of Israel professionals and teens at one of their conventions, to learn
from people with first-hand experience.
Now is the time to make an impact. Whatever you are passionate about, AZA will serve
as a vehicle to advocate for it. The first step is expanding the outreach of our Stand-Up
campaigns. We will initiate Stand-Up on the international level for chapters to take part
in. We can then create resources with various ideas, activities, and organizations for
each campaign, so that chapters have a foundation of where to start. These campaigns
can be for all of BBYO, such as bActive to combat obesity and bAccepting to support
teens with special needs, or for AZA individually such as Aleph for Animals or Alephs
Against Alzheimer's. To approach our selected causes, I envision us getting out of the
house and going to where charities need us and helping out directly. The interactive
experience will reveal that helping others can and should be enjoyable. While it is
important to motivate each other to take action now, it is essential to inspire one another
to make the impact for years to come. Together, we will put our passion into action to
make the world a better place for all those in it.
My ultimate vision is for each of us to make an impact and unite together as a fraternity
and a family. My brothers; WE ARE Jewish. WE ARE supporting Israel. WE ARE
repairing the world. WE ARE making an eternal impact on the Jewish people, today and
tomorrow. WE ARE AZA!
Josh Schreck
Candidate for the high and honorable position of the 27th Grand Aleph Shaliach
Anti-Semitism is on the rise. Israel is still in danger. Millions of humanitarian and
environmental issues are waiting to be solved. However, with this immense struggle
comes great strength. With this great conflict we prevail and we are still strong.
The Jewish People are still strong.
Now, what we chose to do with this strength is up to us. The Grand Order of The Aleph
Zadik Aleph is on a gradual upward slope and it's easy to plateau or decline, but we
have an obligation to our ancestors to keep progressing. This year, we will work
together to strengthen and sustain the future of the Jewish people by bringing our order
to new heights when it comes to Judaism, Tikkun Olam, and Israeli Advocacy. I
understand and truly believe that nothing comes close to the importance of the growth
and prosperity of the Jewish People. Now, let us use the strength that we have
acquired through our hardships to improve and excel on every single level while
bringing the Jewish people to new heights.
In order to strengthen ourselves, we must find out why we are here, what power we
have, and what we can do with that power. Creating an environment where every Aleph
has the ability to discover why they are Jewish, what type of Jew they want to be, and
what they want to accomplish with that Judaism is essential. At International Kallah,
Alephs will not only be able to take a Journey through Judaism, but also they will
experience a “call to action” that will inspire them to go out into the world and create a
stronger Jewish future. This unified love for Judaism and the future will also create a
sense of unified fraternity. This new sense of pride and brotherhood will be the action
that will take our order to the next level.
Once we have built, identified, and utilized our own power, the Jewish people will work
together to show our commitment to strengthening the Jewish and non-Jewish
communities around the world through our Stand Up! efforts. Through the principle of
Tikkun Olam, we will be giving back to the community, including the ones who are less
fortunate than us. Tikkun Olam is not only a basic principle of the Aleph Zadik Aleph,
but it is one of the most important Jewish values. As the predominant Jewish teen
organization around the world, we need to make our impact. We need to step up, and
show how we can impact and improve the future of the world by installing new methods
of Tikkun Olam
After we have helped ourselves manifest our Judaism, and created a better future for
the world, we must maintain the future of our people by preserving and aiding our
homeland. Every single Aleph will be able to create and form a distinct connection with
Israel, whether or not they have been there. While learning the importance of the state
of Israel through a variety of educational events such an International day of Israeli
Celebration on Yom Ha'atzmaut, Alephs will support Israel by completing philanthropic
initiatives with Maccabi Tzair. It is our responsibility ensure that the safety of the Jewish
people and Israel is secured for our children, their children, and so on and so forth.
There are countless ways to envision the future of the Jewish people, but I see a future
that exists in undeniable success and prosperity. My Brother Alephs, this next year I
want you to join me on a journey to sustaining and strengthening the future of this
Jewish people!