Learning To Do Good: Evaluation of UJA-Federation of New York’s Break New Ground Jewish Service Learning Initiative

Publication Date: October 2008

Publisher: Maurice and Marilyn Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies

Author(s): Fern Chertok; Nicole Samuel

Research Area: Culture and religion; Social conditions

Keywords: Volunteerism; Youth; Jewish Identity

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

Community service is quickly becoming an integral part of the contemporary young adult experience. Leaders of the U.S. Jewish community are focusing on the potential of Jewish-sponsored community service to address the most pressing needs of the developing world and engage young adults. This report examines UJA-Federation of New York's Break New Ground Jewish Service Learning Initiative(BNG). BNG brings college-age young adults and high school students together in immersive,ten-day service learning experiences in order to “strengthen the life-long connection to Jewish communal life.”