JUF : Springboard : Springboard Access Grants

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Springboard Access Grants

Making Jewish Programming Accessible for Everyone

Springboard Access Grants encourage teens to try new programs and explore new interests by lowering the financial barrier to participation.  This grant is for 8th-12th Graders who are attending a multi-day program occurring during the school with a Jewish youth organization for the first time.

Teens attending a retreat, convention or Shabbaton for the first time can apply. Teens who receive a grant are expected to participate in a brief call with a member of our team to share about their experience on the program.

Springboard Access Grants can be used to cover up to 50% of tuition costs of your first Jewish teen program up to $300.

In addition, a limited number of Access Grants will be awarded to teens having their first experience with a Jewish teen organization through a domestic summer program. Summer programs must give participant an opportunity to connect with the Chicago Jewish community during the school year. Teens attending a summer program after they graduate high school are not eligible for Access Grants. Access grants cannot be used towards Israel travel or programming offered by a Jewish summer camp contact jewishcamp@juf.org for more information about scholarships and incentives for summer camp programs.

Teens looking for incentives and scholarships for Israel travel, can learn about JUF scholarships and savings programs here . And can learn about incentives from RootOne here .

A member of the Springboard Engagement Team may follow up with you to discuss the details of your application. Have questions or want to learn about the amazing programs you can use an access grant towards? Set up a conversation with a member of our team by following this link or email us at Springboard@juf.org .

Program Highlights

Email: Springboard@juf.org
Grades: 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th

FAQ

Q: Who can apply for a Springboard Access Grant?

A: Eligible teens are in 8-12th grade and live in the Chicago metro area.

Q: What types of programs can I apply my grants towards?

A: Programs must be run by an approved Jewish nonprofit organization. Programs need to meet for a minimum of 15 hours and take place over at least three days (consecutive or over a period of time). Programs must also demonstrate a connection to Jewish values or themes.

Q: Is there an application deadline?

A: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will be awarded until funds have been depleted. Springboard staff will be reviewing all applications, so we encourage you to submit your application no less than 2 weeks before your program's start date.

Q: How long after I apply will I hear back about my Access Grant?

A: Our review process will take 1-2 weeks, so please apply for your grant at least a few weeks before your desired program starts. Once you apply for a grant you may be asked to have a brief conversation with a member of our team so we can get to know you a little bit. Teens applying to use a grant for a 2025 Summer program should expect to hear back in early 2025. If you are concerned about timing, please email Springboard@juf.org with questions.