Teen Service Council (TSC) is a year-long, community service-based cohort for rising 9th and 10th graders who want to make a real impact. Rooted in Jewish values, TSC empowers teens to become changemakers by identifying needs in our local community and creating meaningful opportunities to give back.
Q: Tell us about yourself!
A: My name is Lexi Kass. I am currently in ninth grade at Pikesville High School.
Q: What inspired you to join Teen Service Council?
A: With so many issues in our community that need to be addressed, I was interested in pursuing an opportunity that would allow me to help others. Teen Service Council provided me with various opportunities to engage with and give back to my community, all while framing our fundraisers and events with a Jewish lense that connected our contributions to our faith. In addition to creating new connections and working with like-minded Jewish teens, I was seeking to make a real impact and build crucial leadership skills that might help me in my future.
Q: How has your perspective on community service changed since being part of TSC?
A: Since my time in TSC, my perspective on community has significantly altered. Before I joined, I viewed community as solely the people that surround me. Now, I possess the ability to recognize that community is something that is cultivated and carefully crafted, as every single individual plays a vital role in sustaining its wellbeing. Community members aid each other when individuals are in need. As a member of our community, I now emphasize the importance of encouraging a thriving community. What truly defines this is not location nor people, but to nurture a sense of belonging. There is something deeply powerful and unifying about contributing to something greater, and TSC allows that to become apparent.
Q: Can you describe a project or experience that felt especially meaningful to you?
A: A meaningful project that I engaged with during my time in TSC this year was our volunteer opportunity at Our Daily Bread, an organization that provides critical food to community members in need. The experience truly highlighted our collective ability to aid other community members and allowed me to make a meaningful impact and see tangible change. It wasn’t just about helping to supply the food but viewing subsequent reactions from our community members that allowed me to truly comprehend the meaning behind our actions: to help each other.
Q: In what ways has TSC helped you grow as a leader or advocate in your community?
A: Teen Service Council has helped me grow as a leader and advocate in our community by allowing me to recognize issues or deep-seated inequality within our community, while simultaneously providing me with the resources to make positive change. Teen Service Council has inspired me to make my voice heard. Being able to see real impact fosters confidence and inspires me to raise awareness on vulnerable areas in our community that seek support and require assistance.
Q: How has this experience influenced the way you take initiative in other areas of your life?
A: Teen Service Council has transformed the way I approach initiative by allowing me to recognize that challenges that once felt insurmountable can be confronted through purpose, empathy and unity. Having the ability to address needs in our community has developed my confidence, along with instilling a sense of responsibility that I will carry with me in all areas of my life. Organizing events and engaging with community outreach have enabled me to see the profound impacts that result from working together and possessing a drive to make a difference.
Inspired to make an impact of your own? 4Front’s Signature Programs offer opportunities for Jewish teens in grades 9–12 to grow as leaders, build community, and create change. Applications are due April 26 at 4frontbaltimore.org/apply, and we are happy to answer any of your questions at our info sessions, register at 4frontbaltimore.org/infosessions.
