Based on the Jewish concept of tikkun olam (“repair of the world”), each year up to five deserving teens, 13-19 years old, from throughout California, are awarded $36,000 each for community service and for demonstrating outstanding leadership and commitment to improving the world around them. The Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards seek to recognize teens who are exceptional role models in their communities and beyond. These awards can be directed toward the recipient’s college education or toward furthering his/her tikkun olam vision.

2008 winners announced

The Helen Diller Family Foundation, a supporting foundation of the Jewish Community Endowment Fund, proudly announces the 2008 Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards recipients: Eric Heimark (Palo Alto), Fred Scarf (Sherman Oaks), Ronit Abramson (San Diego), Sarah Van Zanten (Palo Alto), and Shelby Layne (Pacific Palisades). These remarkable teens were chosen through an arduous yet inspiring selection process from some 90 outstanding nominees.

Past Winners

The awards were launched in 2007 when these extraordinary teens were recognized: Amanda Haworth (La Jolla), Allison Hoffman (Los Altos), Justin Sachs (Carlsbad), Shira Shane (Encino) and Erich Sorger (Beverly Hills). To watch a video on the winners, click here. To read their reflections about being a recipient of the Diller Teen Tikkun Awards, please click here.

Nomination process

View award criteria, frequently asked questions and other information for nominators on our announcement flyer. Nominations for the 2009 Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Awards will be accepted on a rolling basis through February 17, 2009. For your convenience, we have the following electronic forms available online:

• Nominator’s form
• Nominator referral form
• Teen application (For nominated teens only - Due March 16, 2009)
• Return to an application in process

For more information contact:

Nicole Miller, National Director, Diller Teen Initiatives at NicoleM@sfjcf.org or call 415.512.6206.