The future of our Jewish community is too big for one person to lead. That’s why we’re building a team through National Young Leadership Cabinet (NYLC). The premier leadership and philanthropic program within The Jewish Federations of North America and throughout the Jewish world, NYLC is comprised of approximately 300 men and women, ages 30 to 45, from across the United States and Canada, who are deeply committed to shaping a bright future for Jewish people around the globe.
Through annual retreats and conferences across America, NYLC develops and cultivates leadership skills and educates members about Israel advocacy, humanitarian endeavors, legislative issues and Jewish life.
In Los Angeles, being part of NYLC is about greater responsibility and access: members participate in the most important decision-making bodies of our Federation. They represent the brightest stars and future top leadership and, throughout the year, they are invited to participate in Federation events reserved for our community’s most generous leaders. This year’s events included our King David Society event with Marc Platt, the Hineni Society Dinner with Chelsea Clinton, and a private briefing with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
NYLC members recently gathered for a Shabbat under the stars at the beautiful home of Reuben and Miri Robin. It was an opportunity for families to connect and hear from those who recently returned from the 2014 NYLC Study Mission to Baku and Istanbul. “It is a remarkable opportunity to personally witness the needs of the Jewish people in diverse communities around the world, and get a glimpse of the extensive reach of JFNA’s work,” says Joli Altshule, NYLC-Los Angeles participant.
In July, the group bid farewell to their L.A. contemporaries who just completed their six-year term: Andrew Altshule, Eric Erenstoft, Josh Feffer and Karen Spiegel will each continue on their Federation work in different capacities moving forward. “Each of them is clearly visionary and committed. In the coming years, they will be our future Campaign Chairs and Chairs of the Board. They are already improving the world and have certainly made their mark locally and nationally,” says Brian Weisberg, NYLC-Los Angeles Chair.
NYLC alumni are among today’s leaders in virtually every Jewish community in North America and serve as advocates and activists in their own communities. There are nearly 20 people in the L.A. group currently and alumni include our Federation’s Vice Chair of the Board, Sharon Janks; General Campaign Chair, Julie Platt; and Chairman of the Board, Les Bider.
Most importantly, NYLC is not only a profound experience that forges leadership paths, but also a social and spiritual journey that builds deep and lifelong friendships. Members of NYLC aren’t just members – they are Chevre (a supportive network of friends).
We are looking for our next class of leaders now. For more information on NYLC, please contact Alexandra Kadoche at (323) 761-8164 or AKadoche@JewishLA.org.
