On the heels of a huge kickoff event this September, BBYO’s New England Region (NER) is seeing extraordinary growth in event participation and membership among Jewish teens in 8th through 12th grade throughout the area. With two new chapters formed this year, and an array of events taking place throughout the region, NER’s Regional Kickoff with Camp JORI was especially noteworthy with over 130 teens in attendance. The energy was contagious, as everyone came together for an evening of activities on McCoy Stadium’s field, including dancing in the batting tunnel and hanging out in the clubhouse with friends.

Following on the heels of kickoff, NER’s Fall Convention, held Nov. 10-12 in Marlborough, set the bar high for a fun-filled and meaningful 2017-2018 year, proving that when teens are empowered to lead together, they will. With 95 participants in attendance, the weekend featured spirit competitions between chapters, guest speaker and author Marc Tyler Nobleman, Friday Night onegs, and many other activities.

“I’ve been a member of NER for two years, and it’s been a lifechanging experience. I have honestly never felt more confident with who I am as an individual,” said Mason Quintero, a senior at Marblehead High School and BBYO member. “Our convention this year was full of ruach (spirit) and made me so proud to be a part of BBYO. The amount of people there and the positivity that brought us all together has me looking forward to a year filled with exciting events like these!”

In the upcoming months, BBYO New England region is planning to host additional programs and events for teens in the region, including:

  • NER’s “90’s Night” on Dec. 16 to celebrate Hanukkah with dancing, activities, food, and more.
  • Winter Kallah in conjunction with Connecticut Valley Region teens in Hartford, Conn., featuring guest speakers, Six13, hockey games, and more the weekend of Jan. 26-28.
  • Our semi-formal dance on March 3, Beau Sweetheart at District Hall in Boston, will bring in teens and non-members for a fun evening!

“Our Regional Kickoff was just the beginning of an exceptional season in New England Region, and we’re excited to start the year off with such amazing energy and potential for growth,” said Samantha Walsh, regional director of NER. “Our program calendar features the best of teen-led programming focused on leadership development, community service opportunities, Jewish enrichment, and unique events, and we’re anticipating huge growth in NER this year!”

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