We live in a society where power and wealth are concentrated among very few. Yet, across the nation, young Jews are empowering themselves and partnering with low-income communities to combat poverty and injustice. Inspired by Jewish tradition and teachings, these young leaders are the cornerstones of our Jewish community and our country.

In 2009, the Jewish Funds for Justice will present four $10,000 awards to young Jewish individuals who exemplify strong Jewish leadership and values through their work in the secular nonprofit and organizing communities.

Twenty-five percent of each $10,000 Cornerstone Award will go toward the winner's professional development; seventy-five percent will be granted to the winner's organization for general support.

Cornerstone Criteria

Nomination Process:
Individuals may self-nominate or be nominated by others. Regardless of how an individual is nominated, the candidate will be asked to complete a series of short essay questions and provide two letters of reference.

Eligible:

• Self-identified Jews;
• 40 years of age or younger at the time of the awards ceremony;
• Individual living and working in the United States;
• Individual and organizational work not predominately connected to a Jewish community or constituency;
• Work for a progressive organizing or advocacy group with a domestic focus OR
• Volunteer 30 hours or more a week to progressive organizing, with documentation of role and verification from organization.

Not eligible:

• Individuals working for synagogues, Jewish federations, denominational movements, or Jewish schools, institutions or organizations with a constituency that is primarily and intentionally Jewish.
• Individuals whose work is primarily the provision of social services.
• Full-time students or academic researchers; individuals enrolled in school part-time may apply only if they meet all other criteria.

Ideal Cornerstone candidates will:

• Have a demonstrated track record of leadership success;
• Be change makers and/or innovators within their organizations, regardless of their position;
• Tell a fresh and compelling story about Jewish leadership.

Ideal Cornerstone candidates will work for organizations that are:

• Addressing the root causes of injustice;
• Playing a strategic role within the broader social change field AND/OR
• An up and coming organization (i.e. one with significant potential and momentum) AND/OR
• Engaged in field building as opposed to institution building only AND/OR
• Doing work that is replicable or scalable

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

Application Process: Enter your contact information to the right (click sign now) to receive an application.

All parts of the application must be completed and received by January 1, 2009.

Campaign Launched:
October 24, 2008