Cultivating Compassion: How iGive Is Transforming Teen Engagement at Community Synagogue of Port Washington

At The Community Synagogue of Port Washington, Jewish values, community service, and education have long been central to the congregation’s mission. But in recent years, a new initiative has taken root, one that is not only inspiring teen involvement but reshaping how young people in the community connect with philanthropy: the iGive program, led by Youth Engagement Coordinator Sal Kraiem.

A Program Rooted in Purpose

Having just completed its second year at the synagogue, iGive, a Honeycomb initiative focused on a real grantmaking experience culminating with a grant to an Israeli organization, was brought to life through a collaboration between Kraiem and Shari Isserles, the synagogue’s Director of Congregational Education. Kraiem recognized the potential of the Honeycomb curriculum, a national model for Jewish youth philanthropy, and saw how powerfully it could resonate with their teens.

“I thought the iGive program was very enticing for our community,” Kraiem shared. His priority from the beginning was clear: build a lasting experience for the participants. With guidance from Honeycomb, he crafted a deeply personalized program that not only educated but empowered the nearly 30 teens who participated in the opening session this year.

Shaping the Experience Around the Teens

What set this year apart was Kraiem’s evolved approach. Having completed his first year in the role, he returned with greater familiarity and deeper connection to both the teens and the broader synagogue community. This allowed him to adapt and tailor sessions, making each interaction more meaningful and aligned with the teens’ interests and values.

He emphasized the importance of meeting teens where they are and encouraging authentic dialogue around topics like Jewish identity, values-based giving, and social impact. As the teens began to engage more directly, they weren’t just absorbing information, they were building confidence and discovering their capacity to lead.

From Discussion to Decision: The Grantmaking Process

One of the most significant components of iGive was the culminating grantmaking project. Guided by Kraiem, teens began with a curated list of nearly 15 nonprofit organizations. Through structured research, thoughtful reflection, and spirited debate, they narrowed that list down to two finalists. Along the way, they evaluated mission statements, measured impact, and shared deeply personal insights into what mattered most to them.

The process was anything but simple. With 25 passionate teens in a room, opinions flowed freely. Many took advantage of private one-on-one conversations with Kraiem to share concerns and perspectives, helping facilitate a more focused group dialogue. This collaborative yet structured approach proved key in reaching consensus.

Ultimately, the group ultimately came to consensus and awarded a $4,481 grant to ELEM, an Israeli organization dedicated to helping at-risk youth. It was the largest grant ever given by the synagogue’s teen community. The teens felt a profound connection to ELEM’s mission, relating to the struggles of peers their own age in Israel and realizing the tangible difference they could make across borders.

“This grant from The Community Synagogue’s Teen Foundation will have a direct and meaningful impact on ELEM’s Halev (the Heart) program, which supports some of the most vulnerable youth in Israel facing complex emotional and mental health challenges – often rooted in trauma, neglect, or extreme life circumstances. Their support helps us continue providing mental health services, crisis interventions, and a safe space for teens and young adults who are struggling. We are deeply moved that this initiative was led by teens – young people supporting their peers across the world. To the teens and the entire Community Synagogue family: thank you for standing with us and for being a powerful example of compassion in action”. -Liora Attias, CEO American Friends of ELEM.

A Program That Resonates Beyond the Classroom

The impact of iGive didn’t end with the grant ceremony. One parent shared how their teen had become so engaged with the program that it sparked deep family conversations late into the night about justice, philanthropy, and community responsibility.

That kind of ripple effect, where values cultivated in the synagogue extend into homes and personal lives, is a testament to the program’s depth and intentional design.

A Model for the Future

The success of iGive at The Community Synagogue of Port Washington highlights the potential of youth philanthropy initiatives that center student voice, offer meaningful leadership opportunities, and are guided by flexible, thoughtful curricula like Honeycomb’s.

As Kraiem reflects on the journey, it’s clear that the key to the program’s growth has been his focus on teen input and authentic engagement. “The end goal is for them to get the most out of the program, and having their direct input is pivotal,” he said.

With leaders like Kraiem at the helm and a community that actively supports youth development, the Port Washington iGive program is not just preparing teens to give, it’s preparing them to lead.