A survey of 150 alumni going back to the inception of the program in 1988 confirms the program’s success: build strength in Jewish community service agencies by creating opportunity while building community.

Almost 54% of those contacted returned the survey, updating Workum on what they did and what they are doing today! 21% of the past interns are working at a Jewish Agency as a career and 42% are Volunteers outside of their careers. Of the 42% who are Volunteering, a remarkable 71% are Volunteering for a Jewish Agency or Cause! Here are a few quotes from the surveys:

“My Workum intership was perfect for someone interested in a career in journalism. It gave me the opportunity to conduct interviews, write articles and edit. That’s first-hand experience that many college students don’t get until later in their college career. I still remember our visits to the various Jewish agencies. I keep what I learned back then in the back of my mind as I’m covering stories today. Having an understanding of community agencies is important as a member of the Jewish community but it’s equally important as a reporter who’s job is to understand the many facets of the community in which I am working” Deb Silverman, WCPO Cincinnati

“Workum was huge for me. I was going to be a lawyer and took Jewish Studies courses for fun. My internship reversed the whole thing.” Brett Pelechovitz Stern, M.A. Jewish Communal Service and Management

“My internship did involve working with people with disabilities, which I continue to do today” Jennifer Hilb

Rob Friedman: CENTER FOR HOLOCAUST & HUMANITY EDUCATION: ”Working at a place that allowed me to do work that applied what I had been learning in college and what my interests were was a great opportunity that will help me in the future.”

Allison Hodge: JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE: “Without having had this opportunity, I would have no idea that I would like to pursue a social work career with older adults.”

Michael Kahan: MAYERSON JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER: “I’m glad I had this great experience… because it taught me about the inner workings of a not-for-profit organization and how to work with other people.”

Rachael Kartal: CEDAR VILLAGE: “I gained knowledge and experience for my future as a professional. I am strongly considering finding work in a Jewish community [agency].”

Elijah Plymesser: JEWISH COMMUNITY RELATIONS COUNCIL/JEWISH FEDERATION: “[The most valuable aspect of my participation in the program was] meeting figures in the community.”

Rachel Regberg: AMERICAN JEWISH ARCHIVES: “The aspect I value most from this internship has been the opportunity to meet and work with amazing individuals who are interested in preserving our Jewish history.”