National Young Leadership Cabinet

Skills & Knowledge for Effective Philanthropic Leadership

Founded in 1963, National Young Leadership Cabinet (NYLC) is Federation’s premier young leadership development program. In a five-year curriculum, Cabinet trains and inspires promising young volunteers ages 30-40 for Jewish community leadership positions. There are over 400 current members and 4,200 alumni across North America. All are offered personalized training opportunities to broaden their viewpoints and acquire the skills necessary to put their passion for Jewish life and community into action.

Cabinet’s Core Program

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Summer Retreat

A three-day learning and development experience that showcases the Federation movement. Members pledge to their local Federation’s annual campaign through a powerful caucus experience.

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International Mission

Each year, the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) offers a Cabinet members-only experience that provides a first-hand experience of the international and humanitarian work done by JFNA and its partners. Cabinet members have visited nearly every corner of the globe. Members are encouraged to attend at least one during their five years. The mission is a highlight of the Cabinet experience.

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Domestic Missions and Experiences

An advocacy mission focused on JFNA’s work in Washington, DC. A civil rights mission in Alabama. Learning about the full breadth of the North American Jewish community in Mexico City. A Cabinet Shabbaton in Los Angeles. Those are just a few examples of the layered development approach that meaningfully connects members to communities across the national movement.

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Distance Learning

Members have opportunities to participate in virtual learning throughout the year, building on the curriculum delivered through in-person experiences.

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Mentorship and the Alumni Network

All Cabinet members have the opportunity to engage with Cabinet alumni during and after the program when they join a distinct group of 4,000-plus former members representing 195 communities across North America. More than 60 percent of the JFNA Board of Trustees are Cabinet alumni.

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Applied Local Leadership

For the first three years, Cabinet members will use the knowledge and skills they gain in an applied setting on the local level. During years 4 and 5, they will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned to make a positive impact on their Federation.

Cabinet in Seattle

This September, Seattle had the honor of hosting the National Young Leadership Cabinet Retreat, welcoming over 300 Jewish leaders from across North America. Over the course of the retreat, participants connected through powerful discussions, skill-building sessions, and inspiring personal stories, all aimed at empowering the next generation of philanthropic leaders.

Attendees shared reflections on how the experience not only deepened their sense of community but also renewed their commitment to addressing the challenges facing Jewish communities worldwide. From networking to raising $2.4 million for the Federation’s Annual Campaign, the 2024 retreat had a lasting impact.

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Membership

Applications to join Cabinet are open!

To be eligible for membership, Cabinet candidates must:

  • Be between the ages of 30 and 40 in the year they apply
  • Contribute a minimum of $5,000 annually to Federation
  • Demonstrate an interest and passion for leadership in their community
  • Be eager for future growth

In addition to being nominated by a Federation professional, candidates must complete an application stating why they want to participate in this program. After an interview process, candidates are accepted on a rolling basis from March through June of each year.

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Connect With Us

To learn more and apply, contact Tori Schwartz, Director of development at Toris@jewishinseattle.org.

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