A Contra Costa Midrasha Program
For Leaders In The Making
The question is simple: What issues do you care about? And more importantly, are you prepared to advocate for them and make a change?
For most teens, the answer to this is "no". That's where Impact Builder comes in: An opportunity for 8th-12th graders to gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to advocate for issues they care about.
But the process doesn't stop there: With your new set of change-making skills, you'll put them into action by going out into the community and take steps to make a true difference.
Step 1:
Identify The Cause
The three social issues teens can choose from are Poverty, Environment, or Elder Communities. Each has a unique curriculum designed to deepen teens' knowledge of these issues and set them up to make a difference.
Step 2:
Gain Advocacy & Service Skills
With your fellow Impact Builders and the program facilitators, teens will learn how to talk about specific causes and take concrete action to make difference.
Step 3:
Take Action In The Community
Impact Builders don't just learn; they do. Get ready to connect with real organizations in the area and partner with them to make a bigger difference together.
The Capstone Service-Learning Trip
The program includes a day of advocacy trip to Sacramento in Spring 2023 so that teens have the opportunity to deeply immerse themselves in change-making as it's lived on the ground.
"Impact Builder allowed me to advocate for issues I care deeply for, but also taught me such important skills. From public speaking to how to do proper research, these skills helped me in my academic career. As far as the advocating went, it was extremely changing. I had always had a passion for mental health, but being able to do something for it was so rewarding. I definitely loved the program, and I recommend it to anyone looking for an amazing experience, that also looks amazing on college apps!"
MAYA
2 Meetings Per Month
Once in person on Sundays and once on Zoom
For 8th-12th Graders
So that everyone has the opportunity to gain foundational skills to become lifelong leaders
Program Dates
Program meetings are on December 11, January 15-16, February 26, Mar. 19, April 30, May 21, and June 4. Dates for the LA trip and the Advocacy Day in Sacramento are TBD based on teens' availability.
Program Cost
The program costs $360 not including the service trip. Please apply regardless of your financial situation. Scholarships are available.
The Builder Track is for participants who are ready to learn and grow as community members via service and advocacy (this is the "normal" track)
THERE ARE TWO WAYS TO JOIN IMPACT BUILDER: A BETTER TO SERVE PROGRAM
The Leader Track is for older teens who have gone through other Midrasha specialty programs and would like to take on a leadership/facilitator role in the program.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS ABOUT IMPACT BUILDER: A BETTER TO SERVE PROGRAM
What are the program's guiding principles?
The program is inspired by core Jewish values: Tzedek (Justice), Kehillah (Community), Hatmada (Perseverance), Areyvut (Responsibility), Chesed (Lovingkindness), Kavod HaAdam (Human Dignity), and Hakarat HaTov (Gratitude). Each part of the program is guided by these important concepts.
What is the difference between the Builder Track and the Leader Track?
The Builder Track (or "main" track) is for participants who are ready to learn and grow as community members via service and advocacy. The Leader Track is for older teens who have gone through other Midrasha specialty programs and would like to take on a leadership/facilitator role in the program.
What is the time commitment of the program?
The program takes place during the winter and spring of this school year (2022-2023)
What is the cost?
The cost of the program is $700, which does not include the service learning trip. Please don't let the cost hold you back from participating. Scholarships are available and waiting for you!
JOIN IMPACT BUILDER: A BETTER TO SERVE PROGRAM
Have questions about the program? Contact Devra Aarons at devra.aarons@ccmidrasha.com to learn more!