The goal of the annual Kaplun Essay Contest is to encourage students to think about their heritage, reflect on their values, and better understand Judaism’s contribution to civilization and culture. We believe strongly in the value of this writing process as a way for young people to explore challenging ethical topics.
The first-place winners in Level 1 and Level 2 will each be awarded $1,800. The next five winners in each level will receive an award of $500 each. Winners, finalists and — when space allows, others who submit a completed essay — who are in 8th grade or above will be invited to join the board of the Kaplun Foundation Youth Board, where participants meet throughout the year to learn about philanthropy and allocate $5,000 of the Foundation’s funds to a nonprofit organization.
