SHAPIRO TEEN ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM [STEP]

Educating, engaging and empowering Jewish teens to create their Jewish community one STEP at a time.

WHAT IS STEP?

Sally and Sam Shapiro (z'l) shared a vision to work with The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee to create a gateway for local Jewish teens to become engaged with their community, their Judaism and their connection to Israel. That vision has become a reality with the creation of STEP—The Shapiro Teen Engagement program.

STEP is a non-denominational engagement program for Jewish teens in Sarasota and Manatee counties that provides opportunities to grow, lead and travel while fostering a welcoming Jewish teen community and a connection to Israel. Alumni of the STEP program have continued to stay involved in Jewish life through participation in Hillel, Birthright, AIPAC, StandWithUs, study abroad and gap years in Israel. They have become youth group advisors, camp counselors, Jewish educators and more. This long term investment in our youth teaches them the importance of giving back and prepares them to become the next generation of Jewish leaders.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

WHO’S ELIGIBLE?

STEP is open to Jewish 8^th-12^th grade students in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Many events are free and there are no attendance requirements to participate in the program