About Us

Summer is Waiting. Find yours.

 

FindYourSummer.org is the place for Jewish teens to discover summer experiences as unique as they are.

Teens and their families can use the site to search among more than 400 programs that appeal to different passions, interests, and backgrounds. From specialty programs focused on surfing and the arts, to social action projects and international travel opportunities, and so many more, there’s a perfect experience for every Jewish teen.

FindYourSummer.org is jointly funded by UJA-Federation of New York and the Jim Joseph Foundation, and operated by The Jewish Education Project. Together, we’re working to bring fun and meaningful summer experiences to more Jewish teens. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is FindYourSummer.org?

FindYourSummer.org is an online platform that pulls together more than 400 different experiences from across the country and around the world and puts them in one convenient place. It’s easy to search based on what you want out of your summer.

What summer experiences will I find on FindYourSummer.org? 

Just like there’s no one type of teen, there is no one type of experience on our site. With more than 400 programs, there’s sure to be something great for teens with various passions, interests, and backgrounds.

From specialty programs focused on surfing or the arts, to local social action projects and internships, to domestic and international travel opportunities, there’s an experience for everyone. They range in length and start dates, so you can find a program that fits your summer schedule.

Fresh new summer experiences for Jewish teens will be added to the site every year.

Who is FindYourSummer.org for?

FindYourSummer.org is for all Jewish teens and their families. If you’ll be a freshman in the fall, if you’re already in high school, or if you’re a relative or friend of a Jewish teen this site is for you! While there are some programs for teens younger and older than high school, most of the information on this site is targeted specifically to high school students.

Are you a program provider? Click here for instructions on how to be listed on FindYourSummer.org. 

Just how Jewish is this site and its summer experiences?

FindYourSummer.org is for Jewish teens of all backgrounds —from those steeped in Jewish life to those who have never before considered doing something Jewish. Every program has a different approach to Judaism—some are observant and some aren’t at all. There’s something for everyone.

No matter what your connection is to being Jewish, these programs will allow you to explore your Jewish identity on your own terms, while doing something you love.

I am a parent/grandparent. Can I use FindYourSummer.org?

Of course! Our site makes summer planning easy and stress-free for families and saves a ton of research time. So you can use FindYourSummer.org to help your teen find a summer experience that is both fun and meaningful. 

A lot of the summer experiences at FindYourSummer.org can help teens become a more prepared and competitive college applicant. Some programs may, and others may not, include religious practice but they all help Jewish teens connect with each other, explore their Jewish identities, and learn about Jewish values while doing something they love.

I am not sure I can afford a summer program. Is there financial support?

FindYourSummer.org features many programs at many price ranges.  Look around a bit. You might be surprised at what you find.

Look for the √ next to programs that offer scholarship funding.  Teens from the New York metropolitan area benefit from special funding available through UJA-Federation of New York and the Jim Joseph Foundation. Learn more on our scholarship page.

How do I register for one of these amazing summer experiences?

FindYourSummer.org connects you to the many experiences out there. Since each program has its own registration system, you’ll need to click through to the program’s own site to officially register. But let us know when you find the summer experience that’s right for you, and let the program know you discovered them on FindYourSummer.org. Already know where you are registering? Share the good news with us!

Did you find the right program for someone you know?

Our “Summer Planner” feature allows you to recommend programs teen. Just click on the program you want to recommend and hit the button that says “Add to my Summer Planner”. You can then share the program via link or email from your Summer Planner.

Having trouble crafting the perfect suggestions? Email info@findyoursummer.org for personalized recommendations.

What is Summer Planner and how do I use it?

Summer Planner is the fun and interactive way for teens, parents, grandparents, and youth professionals to browse through the FindYourSummer.org catalogue and explore a wide variety of experiences to get the most out of summer.

 

You can use the Summer Planner to:
  • Browse and save your favorite programs (Add to Favorites)
  • View programs in a list (List View)
  • Choose dates and add labels to your programs (Labels)
  • Manage your list of summer programs in a calendar (Calendar View)
  • Share and recommend programs with friends and family (Share)

Find more information about Summer Planner here.

I run a summer program. Can I be listed on FindYourSummer.org?

In order to be listed on FindYourSummer.org, your program must fit the following criteria:

  • Have an explicitly Jewish mission, or provide a Jewish experience through at least one of the following:
    • Shabbat
    • Jewish education, arts, or culture
    • Jewish religious experiences
    • A connection to Israel
  • Agree to the following terms:
    • Update information on a yearly basis

If you fit these criteria, we're excited to have you as part of FindYourSummer.org! Email info@findyoursummer.org to get your program set up.

I fit the criteria to be listed on FindYourSummer.org. How do I add my program to the site?

To add a program on FindYourSummer.org, first create an account on the site. Keep your eyes on your inbox - once a site administrator approves your account you'll receive an email to set up a password for your listing. Once you're logged in, you can create a new program by clicking "add a new program." Please note, your program will not be live on the site until it is approved by a site administrator. Want to get your listing approved ASAP? Send an email to info@FindYourSummer.org and we'll work to approve it quickly. Typically, we approve all listings in 24-48 hours.

Who is behind FindYourSummer.org?

FindYourSummer.org is jointly funded by UJA-Federation of New York and the Jim Joseph Foundation, and operated by The Jewish Education Project. Together, we’re working to bring fun and meaningful summer experiences to more Jewish Teens. 

 
UJA-Federation of New York

UJA-Federation invites New Yorkers to invest in their community for the biggest impact. As the world’s largest local philanthropy, we care for Jews everywhere and New Yorkers of all backgrounds, connect people to their Jewish communities, and respond to crises – in New York, in Israel, and around the world. With nearly 100 agencies in our network touching the lives of millions of people in 70 countries around the world, we really can do the most good when we do it together.

 

The Jim Joseph Foundation

By investing in promising Jewish education grant initiatives, the San Francisco-based Jim Joseph Foundation fosters compelling, effective Jewish learning experiences for youth and young adults in the United States.

 

Jim Joseph, z”l, was a dedicated Jewish philanthropist whose passion charted the mission of the foundation that bears his name. He believed that focusing on young people and instilling in them pride in their heritage was the best way to preserve a strong Jewish faith and to ensure a successful future for the Jewish people.

 

The Jim Joseph Foundation seeks to make an indelible impact on the lives of young Jews, recognizing that dynamic Jewish learning takes place in a multitude of settings. Since 2006, the Foundation has partnered with effective organizations and awarded grants to engage, educate, and inspire young Jewish minds to discover the joy of living vibrant Jewish lives.

 

The Jewish Education Project

At The Jewish Education Project, we believe in the power and possibility of a great Jewish education. We work with educators, clergy, principals, and volunteers to create outstanding Jewish experiences for 160,000 children, teens and families in 800 programs in Westchester, Long Island, and New York City. We help educators develop new ideas, build strong networks, and nurture necessary skills. Together, we spark and spread innovations that expand the reach and increase the impact of Jewish education, so that more people experience the wisdom and joy of Judaism.

 

Still have more questions? Contact us.