1. Choose a Cause That Hits Close to Home

The Best J-Serve programs aren’t just about doing something nice, they are about making a difference in something that matters to your community. Instead of picking a random cause, ask your members: What issues are you passionate about? What change do you want to see? When teens care about the cause, they’ll be more invested in the program.

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2. Make It Hands-On

While speakers can be impactful, no one wants to spend their J-Serve sitting in a circle listening to someone talk about volunteer work. The best service experiences are active! Organize a community clean-up, build care packages, cook meals for shelters, or set up a clothing swap for charity. The more interactive, the better!

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3. Mix Service with Fun

Who says service projects can’t be exciting? Add elements that make it feel like more than just work. Set up a competition to see which chapter can pack the most food boxes, blast music while you paint murals, or throw in a post-event celebration with food. If people are enjoying themselves, they’ll want to come back next year!

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4. Collaborate for a Bigger Impact

Want to double (or triple) the impact? Team up with local community organizations! Not only will this expand your reach, but it’ll also help build relationships and make the event even more meaningful. Plus, the more people involved, the bigger and better the energy!

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5. Connect It to Jewish Values

J-Serve is about Tikkun Olam, repairing the world. But how do we bring those values into the program? Start the event with a short discussion or reflection on why service matters in Judaism. Maybe invite a local speaker or rabbi to share their perspective. Keeping that Jewish connection strong will make the experience even more meaningful.

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6. Capture the Moment

If a J-Serve event happens, but nobody posts about it, did it even really happen? (Yes, but still.) Encourage members to take photos and videos throughout the event. Share highlights on your chapter/regional Instagram, submit an article to The Shofar, and show off all the incredible work you did! Not only does this capture great memories, but it also inspires others to get involved next time!

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7. Make the Impact Last

J-Serve shouldn’t be a one-and-done thing. After the program, encourage members to stay involved with the cause. Maybe your chapter “adopts” a local organization and continues to volunteer there throughout the year. Turning one day of service into a long-term commitment makes the impact even greater.

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8. Bring in a Surprise Element

Want to keep people on their toes? Add an unexpected twist to your J-Serve event. Maybe there’s a mystery guest, a raffle with fun prizes, or a “surprise service challenge”. A little bit of something unexpected can make the day even more exciting!

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9. Incorporate a Personal Story

Impact hits hardest when it feels personal. If your J-Serve program benefits a specific community, invite someone directly affected by the cause to share their story. Whether it’s a shelter resident, a nonprofit leader, or someone who has benefited from past service projects, hearing first hand why the work matters makes it more meaningful.

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10. Create a J-Serve Tradition

Want your J-Serve event to be something people look forward to every year? Establish a fun tradition! Maybe it’s a community art project that grows annually, a friendly chapter vs. chapter service challenge, or a themed dress code (who wouldn’t love a “Service Superhero” theme?). A signature tradition will make your J-Serve event stand out and create lasting memories. 

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Let’s make this the best J-Serve yet! International J-Serve is more than just an event, it’s a chance to change lives, strengthen our communities, and come together as Jewish teens to make a difference. So let’s make it count! Plan something exciting, bring the energy, get ready to make this year’s J-Serve the best one yet, and most importantly Be the Change!