Whether it’s through their friends or team, many students find connection and a sense of belonging to be vital. The relationships forged through religious youth groups can be especially impactful for the involved teens.
Senior and co-president of the Jewish Student Union Ellie Ramsey said she works as a lead madrachim, or teacher’s assistant, at her temple and is an active member of her youth group. She added she is fortunate to have a supportive religious community around her.
“The people are kind, thoughtful and genuinely invested in the well-being of others,” Ramsey said.
Sophomore Emilia Gonzalez said she has been going to Broad Street Presbyterian Church since she was a baby, and their community is very close.
“I have made lifelong friends at church that have been there for me no matter what,” she said.
Junior Zareah Snyder, who is president of the Columbus chapter of the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization, an international teen-led Jewish organization, said the community is accepting, upbeat and focused on promoting leadership.
“It’s a space where I feel connected, supported and understood,” she said. “It’s a very welcoming environment where everyone is encouraged to express themselves, learn more about Judaism and build friendships.”
Gonzalez said her youth group spends a lot of time together and supports each other through difficult times.
“Our youth group at church feels more like a friend group or family to me,” she said.
Snyder said the BBYO community is welcoming, and it’s easy to make connections with people with similar backgrounds.
Since joining BBYO, Snyder said she has improved as a person. Being president has forced her to take initiative and be more outgoing, she added.
“My community has shaped me by giving me confidence and helping me grow as a leader,”Snyder said.
Ramsey said she feels encouraged to work and network with Jewish adults and professionals through her religious youth organizations.
“I have connections all over the world because of my community,” she said.
At her church, Gonzalez said, she often volunteers to participate in events and to read during services.
Ramsey said her religious community is also rooted in social justice.
“I have attended conferences about Jewish leadership, such as the JSU President’s Conference
and the L’Taken Social Justice Seminar, where I was able to lobby former Senator J.D. Vance and Representative Joyce Beatty on Capitol Hill,” she said.
Gonzalez said her community has helped her improve at public speaking. Now, she explained, she is more comfortable speaking in front of large groups, like the ones at her church.
“At church, I knew no one would judge me,” Gonzalez said. Ramsey said she has been given an outlet to grow into a more mature person through her religious community.
“My community has shown me that I can really do whatever I want to and that I will have both Jewish support and non-Jewish allies wherever I go,” she said.
Snyder said she is grateful to be a part of a religious community.
“It has taught me the importance of giving back and being a reliable part of something bigger than myself,” she said.
Published and digitized December 2025.
