United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Young Adult Division (YAD) has a new name and a new way of doing business. Now officially rebranded as Next Gen 757, this bold new identity reflects its mission, its members, and the vibrant future UJFT is helping to shape in the Hampton Roads Jewish community.
Why the change?
Over the years, UJFT’s YAD Division has grown into a dynamic platform for young professionals, emerging leaders, and community changemakers. But as its reach and impact evolved, the leaders at UJFT started to realize that there might be better and more creative ways to connect and engage the young Jewish population (who are also future Jewish leaders). And so, significant collaboration between the development (fundraising) side of the organization and the programming (engagement) side is taking place, which will strengthen all aspects of Next Gen 757.
Next Gen 757 represents more than a demographic. It reflects a movement — the next generation of thinkers, doers, and emerging leaders who are invested in shaping the future of the Jewish community of Tidewater.
What does “Next Gen 757” stand for?
• Next Gen signifies forward-thinking leadership, innovation, and inclusivity.
•757 grounds the group in the Tidewater Jewish community — connecting young Jewish adults across all cities in Hampton Roads.
What’s staying the same?
While the name is changing, the group’s core values and dedication remain unchanged. It is still very much committed to the core mission: to connect, empower, and elevate the next generation of Jewish leaders and community members – through engagement, networking, and leadership development opportunities.
Members can still expect:
•Engaging events that foster close relationships with one another and with the Jewish community.
•Service opportunities that make a real impact.
•A strong network of peers, mentors, and local leaders.
•An opportunity to set the course for young Jewish adult programs and activities moving into the future.
What’s next?
The Next Gen 757 brand will soon appear across UJFT’s website, social media platforms, and other communications. All current and prospective members are invited to embrace this new chapter — because the future of Hampton Roads is being written by the next generation.
UJFT is currently seeking a dedicated professional for this group – an energetic and engaging Next Gen Engagement Coordinator whose top priority will be engaging young adults in the Jewish community. That professional will work hand in hand with Next Gen 757 members, as well as fellow Jewish communal professionals, across departments and agencies, to ensure the most vibrant, creative, and inclusive programming.
So, no more YAD Cabinet. But instead: a dedicated professional working closely with Next Gen 757 members to identify interests within this group and connect those interests with Tidewater’s Jewish community through programming (both existing and new!) – giving more input AND more ownership to Next Gen 757 participants.
Next Gen 757 is more than a name. It’s a vision. And it is just getting started.
Amy Zelenka, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s chief development officer, may be reached at azelenka@ujft.org.