My name is Amanda Winer and I am a Jew. Sounds like I’m in an AA meeting or something, eh?
The reason I introduce myself as such is twofold. Firstly, I fully acknowledge that this is an important part of my 
identity. Secondly, I helps to put this entire blog in context. This is who I am–a 21 year old Jewish girl from Suburban Massachusetts, trying to make the world a better place.
Each post, I will discuss a new Jewish organization that is making an impact. It is only natural that my first post discuss and organization that is near and dear to my heart and stomach, Challah for Hunger. In 2004, a red-headed genius braided some bread, and began selling it to benefit American Jewish World Service’s Sudan Relief Fund. At the time, that Scripps student, Eli Winkleman, had no idea the power that challah could have. What’s she’s discovered is… It has the power to start a worldwide movement.
Challah for Hunger (CfH), just seven years later, has 45+ chapters on college campuses nation wide (and internationally — we’re VERY proud of that!). I say “we” because I am very proud of my challah family and I feel very much a part of seeing forth that the mission of CfH holds strong. I coordinate the chapter at my school, Binghamton University, and am also charged with the responsibility of chairing the Education and Advocacy Committee. This committee produces a monthly toolkit, with valuable information and tools for the chapters to help their chapter advocate for those dealing with the devastation of hunger.
This past weekend, I made the long trek to Austin, Texas for the 2nd Annual Challah for Hunger Leadership Summit. The summit was full of new and emerging leaders from CfH chapters worldwide. It was an absolute pleasure to engage in conversation with these leaders and an incredible honor serving in a mentorship role. Crucial to this year’s conference was “action planning”, setting up goals that their chapter is able to achieve with the support of the network we are working so hard to establish.
That’s all for now, got to go prepare for a terrific new years’ celebration. Shana tova to all and make sure to follow me!
Also, check out New Voices’ article about Challah for Hunger that was posted yesterday.
