The Pearl Project is a new, grassroots initiative created to support and serve young people who graduate out of the Child Welfare System or otherwise live on the fringes of society, marginalized by poverty, loss or other circumstances beyond their control.

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For too long they’ve been told that when they turn 21 they are on their own. As a society, we cast them into independence with some modest financial benefits, but mostly they leave foster care or their group home with no backup plan, no community, no one looking out for them. Then we ask them to walk the high-wire to adulthood essentially on their own.  To succeed they need to know someone has their back; that they’re not alone; that their personal success matters to us all. JF&CS founded the Pearl Project to help balance their practical needs for skills and information with their need for community, connections and longterm commitment. As a Jewish community we want them to know they matter to us, that we have their backs. Using a combination of creative programming and community collaborations, it is our goal to reveal the precious pearl that is each of these young people - gems too long hidden away by their hard lives.

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Pearl Project Programs

 

From the Ground Up
Goal: To develop entrepreneurial skills and provide positive role models for youth who will work with mentors to produce and sell an agricultural product.
farming the fields • marketing • sales • financial management • social media and web design
Our youth will gain valuable skills and experience together with new confidence and connections. They will also be paid for their efforts.

 

Mentor Matching
Goal: To connect youth with volunteer mentors in the community who will share their expertise as well as their access to a broader network of professional supports. Working with the Pearl Project team, mentors will help guide our young people into the field of their choice and ultimately into the lives they hope to lead.

 

Arts Connection
Goal: To find the inner artist in each of our youth – whether it’s music, dance or any of the visual arts. With access to professional studios and instructors in the arts, participants will gain new skills and experience while expressing themselves in the medium of their choice.

 

Time Share
Goal: To help our youth learn the value of giving. They will volunteer in a variety of capacities in the service of others. In partnership with other organizations, participants will enhance lives – their own and others – in the name of community service. A graduated system of incentives will enhance participation and acknowledge the value of their contribution.

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You Can Help

Be a volunteer | The opportunities are limitless.

 

Be a mentor | Everyone needs to look up to someone.

 

Share your experience | Could you run a career workshop?

 

Share your connections | Who do you know that could help?

 

Host a Pearl Project Speaker | We’ll come to your home, school, shul, etc.

 

Donate | We can always use new funds.

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Ready to Learn More?

Call us: 416.638.7800 x 6229 | email us: jrishikof@jfandcs.com