Saltzman Youth Panel Frequently Asked Questions
Now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 Saltzman Youth Panel
Q: What is the Saltzman Youth Panel?
A: The Saltzman Youth Panel (SYP) is a program that brings together up to 40 area high school juniors and seniors to make important decisions and allocate up to $45,000 in grants to local organizations in order to improve the Jewish and general communities. The panel is comprised of Jewish students from a variety of different backgrounds to learn about the philanthropic process and responding to community needs.
The Saltzman Youth Panel was established through the Maurice Saltzman Youth Grant Program of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland to educate younger members of our Jewish community about the importance of Jewish communal decision-making, the philanthropic process and responding to Jewish and general community needs.
The program was established in spring 1998 by Shirley Saltzman and her family. It perpetuates the goals of the late Maurice Saltzman, a past president of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, who cared deeply about educating the next generation of Jewish community leadership.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Applications to become a panelist can be acquired in a number of ways:
- We request nominations from local synagogue staff and leadership. Students who have been nominated receive a notification via email. Nominated students are under no obligation to complete an application.
- You may contact Lauren Henkin, coordinator of SYP, directly via e-mail lhenkin@jewishcleveland.org. She will be happy to answer any of your questions throughout the application process.
Applications for the 2025-26 program are open. Fill out an application.
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Jewish students who will be in their junior or senior years of high school during the 2025-2026 academic year. Students do not need to be affiliated with any Jewish organization or congregation to apply.
Q: If I get nominated by someone in the community, does that assure me a spot on the panel?
A: No applicant is guaranteed a spot on the panel. The selection committee makes every effort to fulfill its mission of putting together a diverse panel of outstanding students that reflects the intention of the Saltzman family.
Q: How do I submit my application?
A: Applications are accepted electronically according to the directions included with the application. Fill out an application.
Q: When are applications due?
A: Priority deadline August 1, 2025. Applications are now being accepted on a rolling basis.
Q: When will I know if I have been accepted?
A: Applicants will be notified of their status by August 30, 2025.
Q: What happens if I do not get selected?
A: We are fortunate that there is a very impressive cohort of high school students in our community. Our program allows for a maximum of 40 participants in an effort to maximize the experience and group dynamic. Each year, we receive many more applications of impressive students than slots on the panel. In fact, our applicant pool has grown significantly over the past three years.
If you apply as a junior, and we are unable to accommodate you, please know that we not only want you to consider applying again senior year, we ENCOURAGE you to do so! Seniors, as it is their last opportunity to participate, are given priority during our selection process.
Q: What skills will I gain as a member of the SYP?
A: Panelists will learn how to create a Request for Proposal, build up their resumes, and gain a greater understanding of the philanthropic process. They’ll strengthen grant writing, interview, and critical thinking skills; practice civil discourse through respectful dialogue and debate; and network with fellow Jewish teens. Along the way, participants will explore the breadth and depth of Jewish Cleveland’s diverse community—both locally and globally—and learn how to advocate for the causes they believe in. Panelists will also participate in philanthropy by contributing to Federation's annual fundraising campaign.
Q: When does SYP meet?
A: SYP meets approximately eight times throughout the year. Due to the collaborative nature of the program, attending sessions is crucial; please be mindful of potential conflicts as absences impact the group's work. Dates for the 2025-2026 school year include: Sunday, September 7: orientation and Super Sunday: 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM Sunday, September 21: 2:30-4:30 PM Sunday, October 19: 2:30-4:30 PM Sunday, November 16: 2:30-4:30 PM Wednesday, December 11: campaign close (time TBD) Sunday, January 11: 2:30-4:30 PM Sunday, February 8: 2:30-4:30 PM Sunday, March 8: 2:30-4:30 PM Sunday, March 29: 2:30-4:30 PM May Board of Trustees meeting, date TBD
