Jacyln (Jackie) Drobny, 29, knows that the next generation can make an impact now and has always been one to step up for her Jewish community. In 2015, Jackie decided to continue her leadership journey by participating in NextGen’s Leadership Development Program (LDP). Since graduating from the program, Jackie has soared as a leader within Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, utilizing her skills and passion to make effective change. Currently, she serves as a member of the NextGen Executive Board Member, Vice Chair of Women's Philanthropy and member of Board of Trustees.
As a Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy alumna and an active volunteer with the Mitzvah Food Program, Jackie knows firsthand the vital work the Jewish Federation does each and every day to ensure a vibrant Jewish community and to help those in need.
Outside of her lay leadership roles, Jackie is a Senior Wealth Strategy Associate at UBS Financial Services, Inc.
We spoke with Jackie to learn more about her and her journey within NextGen and the Jewish Federation.
How did you first get involved with NextGen and the Jewish Federation?
I was asked to apply for NextGen's Leadership Development Program (LDP) after attending a recruitment event at Zahav in 2015. I was then part of the 2015-2016 LDP cohort. That experience was a great entry point into my adult involvement in Jewish Federation. I was simultaneously able to learn about the organization and expand my young professional network in Philadelphia. I joined the NextGen board the following year.
Throughout your leadership journey in the Jewish Federation, what has been one of your most memorable experiences?
In spring 2020, my husband Yoni and I became regular delivery drivers for the Mitzvah Food Program. Every other week for about a year we delivered pre-packed bags of food and emergency supplies to individuals in need in our community. Seeing the people on our route week after week especially during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic was a transformative volunteer experience. The gratitude we received from the recipients for the services that the Jewish Federation provides was immeasurable.
What is an organization, program or cause that the Jewish Federation supports that personally resonates with you?
The support of Jewish life and learning is very personal for me. I graduated from Jack M Barrack Hebrew Academy in 2010. I know firsthand that the Barrack community and education is unparalleled. Experiences like playing basketball in day school tournaments in Toronto and Houston, spending a semester in 11th grade at the Alexander Muss High School in Israel and traveling to Washington D.C. to lobby our congress people and perform "street torah" have made me who I am today.
Why do you give to the Jewish Federation?
I believe in the mission and know that the allocations given to our partnership organizations are aligned with my values. I have seen firsthand the impact of these philanthropic efforts locally and in Israel.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting to get involved in NextGen?
Raise your hand and say "yes"... A LOT! There's nothing better than someone new to the group coming in with great energy and fresh ideas.
What are three fun facts about you?
- I have a Goldendoodle puppy, named Bagel after one of my all-time favorite foods!
- I am a skilled sleeper. 12+ hrs, noise, no bed = no problem.
- I love watching cooking shows, but don't cook. I just find them relaxing.
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NextGen is the young professional affinity group of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. To learn more about NextGen, please email Max Moline at mmoline@jewishphilly.org and friend us on Facebook.
