Dear Friends,

At a time when teens needed BBYO more than ever, our Movement was there for them. Throughout the past year, BBYO kept teens connected as we explored new and imaginative ways to build community worldwide—expanding our impact and launching new chapters as record-breaking numbers of teens sought out the connectivity and compelling experiences that BBYO has to offer.

BBYO’s theme for the year, “United We Rise,” captured the resiliency of our Movement and unflappable dedication of our teens as they navigated the challenges and triumphs of the ongoing pandemic. BBYO continued to serve as a vital platform for members to take the lead in making an impact in their communities—from Voice Your Vote and explorations of racial justice through Jewish text, to standing together against anti-Semitism. In February, teens came together to transform BBYO International Convention into not just a virtual event but a 24/7 digital hub, enabling teens around the world to form friendships, hear from inspiring speakers, build new skills, and nourish their spirits. And last summer, as BBYO Summer Experiences resumed in person, we returned again to doing what we love. Whether it was celebrating Shabbat at Perlman or taking 650 teens to Israel, thanks to the support of $3,000 RootOne travel vouchers, the role of our Movement and strength of BBYO remained as constant and critical as ever.

In the midst of so much to celebrate and feel pride in, the circumstances of the past year also created a need and an opportunity to expand BBYO's approach to supporting teen mental health. The launch of Teen Mental Health First Aid and the continued growth of BBYO’s Center for Adolescent Wellness reflect the paramount importance of addressing the health and well-being of thousands of teens across the globe. Across our Movement, we empowered thousands of teens, professionals, and volunteers to continue building the environments and experiences that thousands of teens are counting on right now as they seek out hope, connection, and inspiration through BBYO.

Thank you so much for your partnership and for your dedication to BBYO—together, we’re making a difference in the lives of thousands of Jewish teens, while supporting and strengthening our global communities long into the future.

Sincerely,