Jewish Community Foundation San Diego is excited to welcome the newest cohort of the Jewish Teen Foundation (JTF) as the 2026-27 program year gets underway.

This year, 30 Jewish teens from across San Diego County have joined JTF, a yearlong, teen-led philanthropy program that gives participants the opportunity to learn about community needs, Jewish values, and strategic grantmaking while making a real impact through collective giving.

Members of the new cohort represent 18 different high schools and more than a dozen synagogues and Jewish organizations throughout the region, bringing together a diverse group of teens united by a shared interest in leadership, service, and giving back.

Throughout the year, participants will meet with nonprofit leaders, learn how to evaluate funding requests, discuss community challenges, and ultimately recommend grants to organizations addressing important needs locally and around the world. Along the way, they’ll build leadership, collaboration, and decision-making skills while connecting with peers from across San Diego’s Jewish community.

“Every year, we’re inspired by the thoughtfulness and dedication these teens bring to the program,” said Rachael Cunningham, Program Officer. “We’re excited to see this new cohort learn, grow, and work together to make meaningful grantmaking decisions.”

Each year, JTF participants recommend around $30,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations in San Diego and Israel. This year’s cohort will continue that practice, gaining hands-on experience in philanthropy while helping shape positive change in their communities.

If you would like to contribute to JTF’s granting pool, you can make a grant through your Donor Advised Fund or do so here: https://givebutter.com/jewish-teen-foundation-26-27.