Blog with Springboard

The Springboard blog highlights the experiences of Jewish teens and Jewish teen professionals participating in community programs across Chicagoland and beyond. Dive into blogs about different Jewish teen events, leadership programs, trip opportunities, and more! Join us in celebrating the unique perspectives and contributions of Jewish teens and professionals in the Jewish community. To post a blog, please email danielleburstyn@juf.org.


Springboard Blog

Springboard Blog

Meet Jessica: Springboard’s New Teen Engagement Specialist

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I am so happy to join the Springboard team! In 2017, I had my first role at JUF, working as an intern as part of the Lewis Summer Intern Program. I knew right away that I was passionate about connecting with the local Jewish community and helping individuals find out what programs or opportunities excite them! 

I grew up in Buffalo Grove, Illinois. As a teen, I was involved with my local BBYO chapter. At my first meeting everyone was so warm and welcoming that I couldn’t wait to get more involved. I joined as a freshman in high school and liked that I was able to connect with teens in 8th through 12th grade. I later served on the board as the Sh'licha (Vice President of Jewish Enrichment) and Gizborit (Treasurer). I spent my summers at Beber Camp and met people from all over the country (including my husband) and got involved in activities I would have never had the opportunity to participate in otherwise. I learned to waterski, make jewelry, sail, and so much more!  

Jessica at Camp

These experiences shaped who I am today. Whether it was hosting a fundraiser for my BBYO chapter or traveling on 3-day canoe camping trip, these moments helped me make amazing friends, grow as a leader, and encouraged me to try new things.  

Those experiences are why I am thrilled to be on the Springboard team. It is incredible to think that my role is to connect Jewish teens with programs and opportunities that have the potential to change their entire lives and inspire them to explore their Jewish identity. I am driven by my passion to help connect teens with meaningful Jewish experience. Whether it’s through TOV Teens, USY, JSC, NCSY, JSU, NFTY, BBYO, Keshet, summer camp, or the dozens of other Jewish opportunities for teens in the Chicago area, I am excited to help each teen find the program or multiple programs that will leave a positive and lasting impact on their life. 

When I’m not connecting Jewish teens with programs, I enjoy group fitness classes, trying fun restaurants in Chicago, and taking walks by the lake. 

Jessica Bank