NCSY: Building the Next Generation of Jewish Leaders
For Jewish teens in public school, Jewish Student Union (JSU) is often the only Jewish club on campus — a vibrant space where students can learn and connect with each other, explore Jewish culture and history, and discover opportunities for deeper engagement. What began in 2002 with just four clubs in Los Angeles has grown into a network of more than 500 clubs nationwide, reaching over 22,000 students each year.
4G: Inspiring a Generation of Jewish Women
In just a few short years, NCSY’s 4G program — the all‑girls track of NCSY — has transformed from a local initiative into a global movement redefining what it means for teenage girls to live inspired, empowered Jewish lives. Operating in nearly a dozen communities across the United States and Canada, 4G has seen extraordinary growth, expanding from 1,869 participants in 2023–24 to 2,355 in 2024–25 — a 26% increase.
That growth reflects more than numbers; it reflects a rising demand for spaces where Jewish girls can explore their identity, leadership, and connection to Torah in an authentic and joyful way. As Rabbi Jonah Lerner, NCSY’s Managing Director of Strategy and Development, explains, “One of the strengths of NCSY is its ability to pivot and evolve to meet the needs of today’s teens — providing safe, positive environments where young women can stand proudly for themselves and their Jewishness.”
Nowhere was that spirit more alive than at the Fourth Annual 4G Convention, held this year in Somerset, New Jersey. Over 250 girls from 15 states and Canada gathered for a weekend themed “Hineini: Yisgaber K’Ari”— a call to show up with strength and passion in one’s Judaism. The event launched with a yacht party pulsing with music and energy, and evolved into a Shabbaton filled with learning, inspiration, and sisterhood. Each session — whether a heartfelt challah bake honoring October 7 hostages, or an intimate late‑night learning circle — channeled the message that Judaism is personal, alive, and relevant.
At the heart of the weekend was what 4G does best: create belonging through Torah and leadership. Teens packed optional learning sessions, shared raw stories of struggle and faith at the Friday night “Tishmar,” and joined in an emotional havdalah and concert with Jewish recording artist Jeryko. Parents attending Motzei Shabbat were struck by the authenticity of the experience and the confidence it instilled in their daughters. “4G helped me realize that I don’t have to be perfect to be close to Hashem; I just have to be real,” said one participant.
That sentiment echoes what countless others feel: 4G is a place where being yourself is the starting point for spiritual growth. In every city, every branch, and every heart it touches, 4G continues to ignite that spark — one girl at a time.
A Summer in Israel Against All Odds
This past summer, amid the backdrop of war and uncertainty, NCSY and JSU teens showed extraordinary courage and commitment by traveling to Israel in extraordinary numbers. Despite the threat of war causing logistical difficulties like travel restrictions and airport closures, more than 1,000 teens made it to the Jewish homeland, more than from any other Jewish teen organization in the world. They came to learn, explore its sites and cities, and stand proudly with Am Yisrael. From early morning prayer workshops in Jerusalem to sunset singalongs by the Sea of Galilee, these young people were transformed as they traveled the length and breadth of Israel.
