The Jewish Federation's Young Adult Division is launching a new initiative, UpSTART, aimed at securing increased financial resources for enhanced programming for its members, announced Julia Roberts, 2010 YAD chair.

Established in 1986 as the Jewish Federation's Young Leadership Council (YLC) and renamed in 2007, YAD has engaged thousands of local men and women, ages 25-45, single or married, to participate in social, educational, community service, leadership development and philanthropic activities. YAD members have contributed $1.1 million to the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign over the last five years to support vital programs and services locally, in Israel and overseas. Over 250 YLC/YAD alumni have held leadership positions in the community.

"I am so proud to be part of the YLC/YAD legacy, and we need to continue to engage, develop and empower this community's next generation of leaders," said Roberts. "UpSTART seeks to secure financial investment needed to support YAD's leadership development efforts, programming and events and communications outreach."

Amy Sonstein, a member of the YAD Steering Committee, is the UpSTART chair. "I have met some of my closest friends by being involved in YAD, and the programming gives me time out from my professional and family life to personally grow and expand," said Sonstein. "When the idea for UpSTART came about, I jumped at the chance to be involved in launching this program. I think it is a great opportunity for individuals and local companies to link with YAD now and into the future, so that we can enhance our abilities to cultivate our community and Jews worldwide."

"The re-energized YAD steering committee is vigorously organizing outreach efforts, social and community service events, as well as participation in 2010 Super Sunday in January," said Roberts. Several YAD events are planned, including a Chanukah family community service project, a local mini-mission, a "fireside chat" with a local philanthropist and Super Sunday/Super Week.

Learn more about YAD by becoming a fan of Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey's Young Adult Division on Facebook, by visiting our website at www.jewish-southjersey. org or by calling Beth J. Zive, YAD director, at 751-9500, ext. 291. .