“I began to understand why it is important to help others less fortunate than me. It made me feel good that I have the opportunity to help people in the Jewish community and the needs that some people have that I really didn’t have a clue about.”

15 participants of the Alpha Fed’s programme took part in their graduation ceremony on Sunday at Heathlands Village.

Alpha Feds, which is for teenagers in school years 9 and 10, and follows on from The Fed’s Bar and Bat Mitzvah programmes gives participants a more in-depth experience of the wide range of support The Fed delivers and the challenges it faces in supporting so many people across our community.

Alongside this, the course explores Jewish identity and what it means to be a proud British Jew and an active and connected member of the Manchester Jewish community – something those taking part in Alpha Feds have told us is even more important to them post Oct 7th. The course also qualifies for Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award hours.

Each participant delivered their own feedback, which was powerful and emotive, and some can be read below.

“This experience taught me the value of stepping out of my comfort zone and the importance of direct interaction. It also showed me that age does not determine the impact we can make. The respect and encouragement I received made me feel valued and motivated to continue volunteering.”

“The session made me realise how important it is to stay true to who we are as individuals. The session really made me reflect on who I am and who I want to be in the future, to be the best version of ME, not wish I was someone else, I will always try remembering that. I have been so grateful to be part of the B’nei Mitzvah program and now Alpha Feds here at The Fed, which has helped me to grow in my identity and I have been so proud to be supporting the Jewish community. Volunteering has been so much fun here and has made me feel useful.”

To find out more about all of The Fed’s Next Gen programmes, including The Fed Big Birthday Appeal (for parents and their children aged 3-11), Bar and Bat Mitzvah Programme (years 7 & 8 ) and BBM+ (year 8 ) please call 0161 772 4800 and ask for Natasha Harries or email natasha.harries@thefed.org.uk

For Alpha Feds (years 9 & 10) and Alpha Feds+ (year 11) please call 0161 772 4800 and ask for Tammy Friedlander or email tammy.friedlander@thefed.org.uk