BBYO has maintained an active presence for its members, overcoming many obstacles this winter. The cold, the snow, and the impacts of the Omicron COVID-19 variant were among the challenges the teens faced. The Winter Regional Convention in Durham was cancelled (hopefully to be rescheduled) and in-person programming was put on a temporary hold. Still, the teens managed with smaller group programs while supporting each other through these challenges.
In January, both BBG and AZA brainstormed and planned programs and contingency plans for much of the spring. Both BBG and AZA directed their focus into connecting with teens not yet heavily involved and also strengthening relationships with newer and veteran BBYO teens. This month, BBG is focusing on creating meaningful connections with two “Big Little” programs that include a big reveal. AZA came together to play paintball.
At the time of this writing, BBYO International Convention is scheduled to take place in Baltimore, Maryland with updated safety protocols.
BBYO plans to remain busy, looking forward to more events through the winter and spring while the teens’ leadership skills and social connections continue to grow.
To learn more about BBYO or other ways that teens can get involved in the Tidewater Jewish community, contact Dave Flagler, director of Camp and Teen Engagement at the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, at DFlagler@UJFT.org or 757-452-3182.
-Dave Flagler