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APPLY & NOMINATE

Seeking teen leaders who...

show significant initiative and leadership in creating and leading a new initiative – or have considerably deepened or expanded an existing project — that embodies the values of tikkun olam, repairing the world.

About the Awards

The Awards honor Jewish teens who demonstrate remarkable leadership and engagement in projects that embody the values of tikkun olam, “repairing the world.” Up to 15 recipients will be awarded $36,000 each to further their project or for their education.

Eligibility: Teens (13–19 years old) who self-identify as Jewish, living in the United States, who are not compensated for their work. Projects may focus on the Jewish or general community.

Teens may apply directly online August through January each year.

Teachers, rabbis, community leaders, or any individual aware of the value of the teen’s leadership may submit a nomination online August through December. Nominated teens will then be asked to complete a full application.

I Am a Jewish Teen Leading a Project To Repair The World

Applications will open in August 2023.

I Know a Jewish Teen Leading a Project To Repair The World

Nominations will open in August 2023.

Project Criteria

  • Application must focus on a single project
  • Candidates must have a leadership role - either in initial project creation or significant and impactful contribution
  • The project does not have to serve the Jewish community
  • The project must be able to demonstrate impact over time

Submission Requirements

1. Online Application

Whether applying directly or accepting a nomination, all candidates must fill out an online application focused on their volunteer leadership efforts.

2. References

Applicants who move to the Semi-finalist stage will be asked for contact information for three references. References should be able to speak about the applicant's project and leadership.

After Applying

  • Applicants receive an email confirmation message upon successful submission of an application form within 24 hours.
  • Applicants will receive status updates as the selection process moves into semi-finalist and finalist rounds, in March and April.
  • Awardees will be notified in May.

Important: If you do not see a confirmation screen, save your work in a word processing application before closing your browser and contact our office for technical support.

Evaluation Criteria

Proven commitment to the value and practice of tikkun olam

Demonstration of vision and creativity

Effective development and implementation of a project or organization

Dedication to the project over time

Ability to impact a growing number of individuals and/or engage a growing number of individuals in the project, either as partners, participants or beneficiaries

Ability to articulate in their own words the history, meaning and significance of the project, it’s goals, impact and potential to engage others

Note: Teens who have created and co-led projects with others are welcome to apply individually for the Tikkun Olam Award. In such cases, each applicant will be considered and evaluated separately, and no more than one applicant will be chosen as an award recipient.

Note: Teens are not eligible for the Award if they have a sibling who has received a Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Award in the preceding five years.