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Stand UP is my opportunity to unite with other Jewish teens from around the world and make a greater impact on the issues we care about. With Stand UP, I am able to mobilize my community, chapter, region, and every BBYO teen to make a difference. The Stand UP initiative challenges the next generation of Jewish leaders and change agents to put our words into action and fulfill the mitzvah of tikkun olam, repairing the world.

— Paul Felder, Tampa, Florida, North Florida Region

When I first joined BBYO, I honestly really wasn't sure of the point. Yes, I got to spend time with friends, and yes, it was always a lot of fun, but I didn't get the purpose of what we were doing. Everything changed when I was introduced to the Stand UP initiative. I realized that there were teens from across our Order who were not only willing to do volunteer work, but also genuinely excited and truly passionate about giving back to the community. My brother Alephs and sister BBGs are some of the most caring, compassionate people I have ever met, and Stand UP is a way for them to act locally and impact globally through this organization that we all love.

— Josie Roth, Boca Raton, FL, Gold Coast Region

BBYO is such a large and multifaceted organization, as it accomplishes so many different things ranging from global Jewish networking to strengthening teen leadership. Stand UP is where BBYO brings everything we do back to the individual so that we can focus on inclusion and mutual respect, not only for our friends but also for the people we may never get a chance to truly connect with. It eliminates the harmful stereotypes, the derogatory words we may have used to innocently throw around, and it makes BBYO a much warmer and productive environment. Stand UP is BBYO's soul.

— Danielle Fallon, Ellicott City, Maryland, Northern Region East, DC Council

I have always had the drive to help people, but Stand UP was one of the many factors that helped me realize this passion, and many times we want to help people but we don't know where exactly to start. For me, Stand UP was that starting place. In my BBYO career Stand UP is something that got me to want to take leadership roles because I wanted to be able to make a bigger impact on my community.

— Jordan Friedman, Oakland, California, Central Region West

Stand UP gives teens the opportunity to take everything BBYO has given us and give it back to the community. Stand UP has given me the chance to advocate for what I believe in and have my brothers and sisters stand by me and support me in my efforts.

— Jillian Curwin, Sewell, New Jersey, South Jersey Region

BBYO gives us the opportunity to change our world and Stand Up starts us off on the right track. As Jews, it's important for us to participate in the act of Tikkun Olam. Within BBYO, we are able to take part in the magic of service and change the face of our communities. Stand UP unites every member and accomplishes a common goal that we can make a difference.

— Madeleine Feinman, Salt Lake City, Utah, Mountain Region