7th Graders working at First Parish Soup Kitchen

What is TELEM?

Mission Statement:

TELEM works to build the next generation of Jewish leaders, civic activists and advocates for change by forging a compelling connection between community-based social action and Judaism. TELEM integrates volunteer service with classroom learning and reflection, enabling students to build meaningful relationships with their Jewish peer group as well as the broader community.

TELEM is an acronym in Hebrew for tenuah l'tzi'rim mitnadvim, Movement for Youth Volunteers! Join with a group of your friends and see what a difference you can make!

Making a Difference:

TELEM is about making a difference. It's an innovative program for Boston area Jewish teens that integrates community service, learning, and reflection—and provides opportunities to effect real change. In addition to helping others, teens learn about values that have guided Jews for thousands of years—and gain understanding of how you can work for change.

TELEM is about building relationships: people helping people. To teens who want to explore the city beyond your own community and have an impact in greater Boston, here is your chance.

TELEM is about changing lives—yours and others.

In the Hunger and Homelessness track, TELEM our students have the opportunity to learn about the issue of poverty. Students in this track participate in classroom-based learning and direct service activities with people who are struggling with issues related to poverty and homelessness. Our students are also given the opportunity to reflect upon and share their experiences with their peers and supervisors to round out a meaningful personal and learning experience. Our students learn the many issues and dimensions related to poverty, hunger and homelessness to develop insight and strategies to help fight poverty.