Reuniting with my international friends after such a long time apart is a feeling unlike any other. There's something so special about reconnecting with people who share a part of your life and identity, even though distance and time zones have kept us apart for so long. They share with me memories of past experiences, jokes, and an unspoken bond that no time apart can diminish. It was a reminder of the power of friendship and the impact of staying connected despite distance.

BBYO has given me so many connections, leadership opportunities, and the tools I need to become more involved in my community. This is why Giving BBYO Day is so important to me. It’s not just about fundraising–it’s about making sure other teens are able to experience all BBYO has to offer.

Giving BBYO Day is so important because it directly supports scholarships that help teens, regardless of their financial situation, become more deeply involved in BBYO. These scholarships break down barriers and ensure that teens who are passionate about leadership, their Jewish identity, and making a difference have the chance to participate in programs that otherwise might be out of reach. By supporting this day, donors make it possible for teens to access transformative experiences—whether through regional events, international conventions, or summer programs. Participating in these experiences has been a transformative part of my life and has helped me to become a stronger leader and find my Jewish identity.

By supporting Giving BBYO Day, we’re helping to ensure that more teens can have these life-changing experiences surrounded by a global network of friends. It’s the same kind of interconnectedness that makes those long-awaited reunions so special. Through Giving BBYO Day, we ensure that more teens can experience those moments, just as many of us have, and carry the values of BBYO with them wherever they go.