YOUNG LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP

mitted Jew and that is my hope for recipients of our scholarship fund. This year I will be expanding my program to include two new, special scholarships; one specifically in honor of my wife, Judy, of blessed memory, who passed last year, and one reserved for a teen that wants to attend Camp Tel Yehudah, which is the summer camp I attended in my youth.” - Len Elikan 2023 winners to be announced soon!

Essay by Madelyn Millrood

This summer I had the privilege to go on USY on Wheels Classic. In short, this journey is a six-and-ahalf-week-long road trip around the entire US and it was the most incredible experience I’ve ever had. Looking back, signing up to go around the country with 27 strangers seemed like something I would have never done but I stepped out of my comfort zone. I had never spent a summer away from home until now, and it was amazing.

We started in New Jersey, and began making our way south, west, then back east. While we went to so many beautiful and fun places, some of the best parts of Wheels were on the bus. Even though a good amount of time was spent sleeping after our early mornings, the long bus rides allowed us to become closer. There are so many incredible memories I made that I will cherish for years to come.

While it’s hard to pick a favorite, waking up at 4 am to watch the sunrise at the Grand Canyon was one of the most memorable. The breathtaking view was 100 percent worth the early wake-up.

Shabbat on Wheels was also something that stayed with me. Saturday was the one day we were able to sleep late and reflect on a busy week. While I loved Shabbat, my absolute favorite part of the week was always the way we ended Shabbat. Before Havdalah, sitting in a circle singing slow songs together with our arms wrapped around each other was so meaningful, and I looked forward to it every week. Getting to experience Shabbat in a setting like that was incredible.

One of the best parts of the summer was the amazing friendships I made. It’s crazy to think we were all complete strangers, but after spending six weeks together 24/7, it seemed like we knew each other forever. I know these friendships will last a lifetime and I am so grateful for Wheels giving me the ability to meet these people. Wheels was a life-changing experience and I am so glad I had the opportunity to participate.

For my mitzvah project, I have been volunteering each week at a religious school as one of the Madrichim at the Jacksonville Jewish Center. I plan to continue doing that throughout the year. It is so fun to get to help as a teacher. I also volunteered for family mitzvah day, which was a great way to help at the Center.

Whenever more volunteer opportunities arise, I will participate as much as possible. On Christmas, I assisted at the community-wide meals on wheels program at the Temple. I enjoy being able to help give back to people all across Jacksonville.