Kyle Sherman’s first introduction to NextGen was a cornhole tournament. A few years ago, Kyle’s former roommate, who was a Leadership Development Program (LDP) participant, invited him to the fun competition, which doubled as a community-wide fundraiser and LDP capstone project. After meeting other guests at the event and hearing more about the Jewish Federation, Kyle was hooked!
Since his initial involvement, Kyle has taken on a number of leadership roles within NextGen, and is currently the Campaign Co-Chair. What drives Kyle’s lay leadership and philanthropy is his understanding of the Jewish Federation’s impact locally and overseas as well as his desire to ensure that this life-changing work continues for generations to come.
Kyle invites NextGen members to share in his vision for a vibrant Jewish future by joining him at an upcoming event and by Answering the Call this Super Sunday, February 27, or by making a gift at jewishphilly.org/give.
We spoke to Kyle to learn more about about him and his leadership journey within NextGen:
What are three fun facts about you?
- I've run every Broad Street Run since 2010 and I've just signed up again this year.
- I'd never had a pet until this past November when I adopted a kitten named Joey.
- I've been to four continents, but have yet to set foot in Europe.
How did you first get involved with NextGen and the Jewish Federation?
My first event was a former roommate's Leadership Development Program (LDP) final project fundraiser which was a cornhole tournament. I met some really great people and heard about the projects they did, and decided it would be something to look into.
Throughout your leadership journey in the Jewish Federation, what has been one of your most memorable experiences?
One of the best times of my life was going on the Israel360 Mission in 2019. I was able to make some great friends. We were exposed to parts of Israel that I didn't fully realize existed, and got deep into the weeds on everything from class and culture to geopolitics of the region. We also were able to see the extensive support that the Jewish Federation gives to so many people worldwide.
What is an organization, program or cause that the Jewish Federation supports that personally resonates with you?
I really liked the impact of the organization Nirim. It is a program that teaches at-risk youth survival and problem-solving skills. Helping kids gain exposure to real-life experiences is a wonderful way to impart the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam (repairing the world).
Why do you give to the Jewish Federation?
I've seen the great work of so many of the charities that the Jewish Federation supports, and I want to do my part in ensuring that we are still able to uplift our Jewish communities and help those in need for years to come.
As NextGen’s Campaign Co-Chair, I invite you to do your part in helping our communities by Answering the Call this Super Sunday on February 27 or by making a meaningful donation to jewishphilly.org/give.
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting to get involved in NextGen?
Try things, you'll meet some great people everywhere. And when NextGen brings it back, attend the Gala!
Anything else you want to add?
Go Eagles!
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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.
