On April 14, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., the Jewish Community Foundation (JCF) will hold the B’nai Tzedek Shuk, its annual youth philanthropy fair.

The B’nai Tzedek program introduces teens to tzedakah by inviting them to establish their own personal charitable giving accounts at the Foundation. Once a year, B’nai Tzedek fundholders may donate 10% of their funds to a Jewish charity, either locally or in Israel. 

The Shuk gives fundholders the opportunity to learn about the missions of community organizations and how their donations can make a positive impact. In many instances, the Shuk is the first time teens are introduced to the wide array of diverse organizations working in the community.

The Shuk is planned by the B’nai Tzedek Youth Council, a cadre of teens who work together to engage their peers in philanthropy. The council chose the theme “2026 Philanthropy World Cup” based on the upcoming FIFA World Cup and Maccabi Games in Kansas City. The theme was also chosen to reinforce core Jewish values like collective responsibility and empower teens to take an active role in repairing the world. 

“The Shuk is the perfect place to learn about charitable giving and how you can do your part to support the community,” said Leora Stein, B’nai Tzedek Youth Council member. “It is a lot of fun visiting the organization's booths with other teens and you even get Dippin Dots.”

Fellow Youth Council member Shefer Rudnick agreed, saying, “I love the Shuk because it allows kids to understand the important causes they are donating to. I think our World Cup theme is a fun choice to get more people involved in not just donating, but being excited to help worthy causes.” 

After visiting with communal representatives, guests will be invited to socialize and enjoy a complimentary Vaad-supervised and kid-approved light dinner. Dippin’ Dots, a kosher ice cream treat, will also be available. Anyone who wants to learn more about this program is welcome to attend, and as an added incentive, there will be a drawing to win a free B’nai Tzedek account. All current B’nai Tzedek fundholders who RSVP in advance will be given the chance to win a $50 Amazon gift card. 

Those interested in more information or to RSVP can visit jcfkc.org/shuk or contact Suzanne Galblum Dicken at (913) 327-8286 or . 

Support of the B’nai Tzedek program is provided by the Lowenstein Family Supporting Foundation.