B'nai B'rith Youth Organization

Overview

The B'nai B'rith Youth Organization (BBYO) is a leading international Jewish youth organization dedicated to providing a safe space for young Jewish people to achieve personal growth and engage in their community. Founded in 1924 in Omaha, Nebraska, the organization has evolved into a vibrant movement offering diverse cultural, social, and educational activities for teens worldwide.

History

BBYO was established as a response to the exclusivity of non-Jewish social fraternities prevalent in high schools and colleges at the time. Initially known as Aleph Zadik Aleph (AZA), it was later sponsored by B'nai B'rith International, a prominent Jewish service organization. In 1927, the female counterpart, B'nai B'rith Girls (BBG), was founded in San Francisco. Both AZA and BBG merged in 1944 to form the B'nai B'rith Youth Organization.

Programs and Activities

BBYO offers a broad range of activities designed to foster leadership skills, community service, cultural awareness, and religious understanding. Members participate in events such as community fundraising, social events, religious celebrations, and educational programs. The organization operates camps and sponsors international exchange programs, including opportunities for teens to study and work in Israel.

Community Service and Philanthropy:

• Community Fundraising: Local chapters contribute to the International Service Fund, supporting various philanthropic organizations.
• Adopt-a-Grandparent Program: Teens provide companionship to seniors in institutions or at home.
• Support for Special Needs: Members assist and entertain children and adults with special needs.

Structure

BBYO is structured into three main youth groups:

• Aleph Zadik Aleph (AZA): For high school boys.
• B'nai B'rith Girls (BBG): For high school girls.
• B'nai B'rith Teen Connection: For middle school boys and girls.

Each local chapter is supervised by volunteer advisers and professional staff. BBYO operates across thirty-seven regions in North America, with chapters worldwide.

Membership

Membership in BBYO is open to Jewish youths, regardless of their family's affiliation with B'nai B'rith International. By the year 2000, BBYO had over 50,000 members across the globe. As of recent years, BBYO continues to grow internationally, engaging over 70,000 teens across more than sixty countries.

Recent Developments

In its second century, BBYO is expanding its reach, both nationally and internationally. The organization has seen significant growth in North America and globally, with new chapters opening in diverse locations such as the United Arab Emirates, El Salvador, and Japan. BBYO's focus on inclusivity and pluralism is reflected in its efforts to engage Jewish teens from all backgrounds and levels of observance.