There is no better time to meet new people and try something new than during summertime. Last week, Springboard embraced the spirit of summer by meeting with teens from all over the Chicagoland area for the first gathering of the Summer Jewish Teen Alliance of Chicago (Summer JTAC). Summer JTAC is a board made up of teens from different Jewish backgrounds and Chicago area regions. Over the summer, this group will come together to create opportunities for Jewish teens staying in the Chicagoland area to connect and get to know each other.  

After the first meeting, we asked Summer JTAC members why they are excited to serve on this board. This is what they had to say:  

"Because I can help create events and projects for Jewish teens to enjoy and learn at the same time." –Emily Fridland, rising Junior Rochelle Zell Jewish High School 

 “To continue to participate in Jewish events when there is typically a lull in organized activities. I also am ecstatic to be able to develop more leadership skills throughout this board that could potentially help me in the future as a leader in my community. ” – Abby Lapins, rising Senior Stevenson High School  

"I will get to meet new people, plan fun events, and gain new leadership skills.” –  Jenna Chiet, rising Junior Niles North High School  

The Summer JTAC Board is planning two great events for rising 9th -12th graders this July. They hope to see Chicago area teens who are local this summer. So, if you’re attending summer school, working, or looking for fun ways to connect with the Jewish community (or know someone who is), join us at one of these upcoming events! 

Beach Bash  

Wednesday, July 18 

Northwestern Lakefill  

6:00 PM 

Register here 

Lake Forest Days  

Tuesday, July 31 

Meet at Market Square 

6:30 PM  

Register here