Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and New York City
AJC ACCESS Leadership Fellowship (ALEF) is an advocacy training program designed to bring together an elite group of Jewish young professionals to deepen their connection to the Jewish people, strengthen their leadership skills, grow their networks, and improve their ability to make a positive impact in their communities.
ALEF is an eight-month cohort experience for young professionals aged 22-40 who are committed to the Jewish community and Israel. Together, the group will leverage their talents to make their city and the world a better place to be Jewish.
Participants will connect with like-minded peers, learn from experts in the field, and engage in real hands-on advocacy work around issues of importance to the Jewish community. After participating in ALEF, participants are encouraged to continue to stay involved in the ACCESS Marshall Society and to pursue future AJC leadership opportunities.
Application and program timelines vary from city to city, and we recommend you contact the ACCESS chapter in your city to learn more about getting involved.
Program Outline
Though subject to change, the fellowship has included sessions such as:
Bringing a global lens to local issues: a conversation with senior AJC leadership
Understanding Antisemitism: Lessons from the field
Israel and the Diaspora: Asking the tough questions
Friendships and Partnerships: Building bridges with other communities
Off-the-record meetings with legislators and diplomats
Social opportunities including happy hours, Shabbat dinners, and more!
Program Requirements
Participants must be between the ages of 22-40.
Participants should plan to attend all ALEF program sessions.
Participants should engage fully in program sessions, including helping to prepare for and speak in advocacy meetings with diplomats and elected officials.
Participants must be members of ACCESS Marshall Society* OR committed to becoming an ACCESS Marshall Society donor by the start of the program.
Participants are encouraged to attend AJC's Global Forum in Washington, D.C., as well as to participate in an advocacy day with their ACCESS region.
*The ACCESS Marshall Society honors AJC supporters who generously contribute $625 or more to AJC's Annual Campaign.
If you have any questions or want to learn more about the ACCESS Leadership Fellowship, please contact Brian Hertz, Assistant Director of ACCESS Global, at hertzb@ajc.org.
