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Bernstein Leadership Course – Chart Your Course

Do you want to:
Shape the future of our Jewish community?
Be a member of a well-connected leadership network?
Learn skills that will serve as the foundation for your volunteer life?
Meet new people and form life-long friendships?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s Bernstein Leadership Group (BLG) is definitely for you.
Graduates of this 18-month Jewish leadership development program, for people ages 25-45, have gone on to serve on organizational boards and committees, develop important community initiatives and hold key positions within the community.

Program Details:

• Actively participate in monthly seminars focused on personal and community leadership growth
• Gain an in-depth understanding of Jewish Federation of Greater Charlottle and its network of non-profit organizations as well as the greater Charlotte community.
• Get the chance to learn from and connect with Jewish community leaders
• Build life-long connections with a cohort of like-minded, emerging young leaders

March 2025 – August 2026; most meetings will be held on Sunday evenings

Participation Fee: $180 includes program cost and an immersive leadership experience

Applications will become available starting January 6
Applications due: February 17, 2025
Sending out Acceptances: March 3, 2025

Class Schedule click here

Questions? Contact Megan Harkavy at megan.harkavy@jewishcharlotte.org or 704-944-6788

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is BLG?
A: BLG is a leadership program designed to teach Jewish young adults professional skills in communication, conflict management, team building, and much more, all guided and informed by Jewish values.

Q: Who can apply for BLG?
A: Any Jewish individual between the ages of 25 and 45 with an interest in the program may apply!

To apply, click here.


Q: What makes BLG different from other leadership programs?
A: BLG takes the time to integrate lessons like tzedakah and tikkun olam into its curriculum, as well as offers a unique perspective into Jewish Charlotte, its agencies, and our relationship/ history with Israel.

Q: Who are the BLG Alumni?
A: Many of greater Charlotte's Jewish professionals are alumni of BLG, including Federation Board members, staff, committee and event Chairs, and many influential members of our community.

"The Bernstein Leadership Group was an inspiring, empowering, and truly enjoyable experience that was pivotal in shaping my path as a Jewish leader.  It helped me grow as a leader, deepened my connection with our special community, and led to some of my closest friendships. I am so grateful for the impact it has had on my life."

Jonathan Friedman,
COO of Temple Beth El and Bernstein Leadership Group Class 2017-2018

"My experience in Bernstein Leadership Group was incredibly impactful and ultimately led to my holding multiple leadership and volunteer positions with local and national Jewish nonprofits.  The Bernstein Leadership Group program offers a unique opportunity to hone leadership skills while developing new friendships and a strong understanding of the Charlotte Jewish community.  I would strongly recommend Bernstein Leadership Group to anyone interested in deepening their Jewish leadership involvement--especially within the Charlotte Jewish community."

Gabe Mathless,
President Levine Jewish Community Center Chair and Bernstein Leadership Group Class 2015-2016
"Bernstein Leadership Group afforded me the opportunity to understand the inner workings of Shalom Park and the Jewish agencies in the surrounding area, how the Jewish Federation leaves their imprint in each agency, an opportunity to hone my leadership skills and be introspective about my place in growing out community. The bonus was that I made the greatest friendships that have turned in my framily both personally and professionally."

Kara Culp,
2025 Annual Campaign Chair and Bernstein Leadership Group Class 2017-2018