Stephanie Gerson - NPJTF

"In a place where there are no [mensches], strive to be a [mensch]." - Pirke Avot 2:5

The North Peninsula Jewish Teen Foundation(NPJTF) is a group of 24 teens who are passionate about changing the lives of those in need. Through NPJTF, I have learned about leadership, fundraising, philanthropy, and worldwide issues; I will also greatly benefit from these skills in the future. My older siblings, Jackie and Andrew Gerson, served two years on NPJTF and have inspired me to make a difference through Jewish philanthropy. Ever since I can remember, I have been involved in community service activities and helping others, but I am excited to make an impact on a larger scale. Our mission this year is to promote positive social change by protecting the environment and responding to the needs of people affected by environmental problems locally, globally and in Israel. 

Did you know that Hurricane Harvey caused $180 billion in damage? That’s more than any other natural disaster in U.S history affecting 13 million people from Texas through Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee and Kentucky.

 Another statistic that concerned me is that 2.2 billion tons of waste are dumped into the ocean every year. 

Recently, fires in the Bay Area grew to over 36,000 acres in 36 hours burning dried forests along its path.

Since I am a person that loves spending time outdoors, I deeply care about the preservation of our environment. Environmental issues impact every area no matter how small.  I am so lucky to live in the Bay Area and have admired its well-maintained parks and forests ever since I can remember. Our group fundraising goal is to raise $62,000 and my personal goal is to raise $2,500. I would greatly appreciate your support to help the NPJTF support nonprofits that protect the environment. Any donation will help the group reach our goal and make a difference. Thank you!