A Lifelong Community Alumni Giving Back
JELF alumni are more than just former recipients—they are leaders, mentors, and supporters shaping the future. Whether you're reconnecting, exploring resources, or finding ways to give back, this is your place to engage, inspire, and make a difference.
JELF's Impact
Since 1961 JELF has provided $2,312,224 in interest free loans to 500 students.
Provide Feedback
We want your two cents! Help make an even bigger impact by taking our Alumni Survey.
Loan Repayment
With each repayment, JELF is able to lend recycled dollars to current students in need. Thank you!
Check out these JELFie stories!
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Eli B.
Eli B.
University of GeorgiaB.S. Computer ScienceMy sister and I would not be where we are today without the help of the Jewish community and organizations such as JELF. I plan on donating to JELF when I am successful and financially able so that I can help students like myself who go through similar struggles and financial barriers.
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Shelley S.
Shelley S.
UNC GreensboroB.A., Media StudiesThank you so much for your support during the past four years of my education! To have additional support from this community was extremely impactful during my time in school. The fact that my class had to face a pandemic while trying to complete our education was incredibly difficult. However, with JELF’s help, I did not have to worry about my finances while facing the altered learning situation the pandemic caused. I am happy to announce that I graduated Summa Cum Laude this past May. It would not of happened without JELF’s support. I thank you all so much, from the bottom of my heart. Being apart of the Jewish community is something that I hold very close to my heart. It is wonderful to be able to celebrate with this wonderful community as I continue my journey into my career.
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Andrew S.
Andrew S.
Johns Hopkins UniversityB.S., Neuroscience and General BiologyThank you so much JELF for helping to fund my education!!
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Larisa K.
Larisa K.
Emory, UNC Eshelman School of PharmacyPharmDI am so grateful for seeing a JELF flyer at a coffee shop. This loan wound up helping me feel connected to my Jewish community while supporting me to pursue the education of my dreams.
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Carter M.
Carter M.
University of Florida + University of Miami School of LawB.A., J.D.JELF’s loans are a major help to me in financing law school! Interest-free means less stress about finances and more focus on my schooling. This program is unique and truly appreciated!
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Sophia C.
Sophia C.
Georgia State UniversityDoctorate of Physical TherapyJELF has allowed me to further my education. I have wanted to be a physical therapist since high school and I am grateful to finally be able to achieve my goals with the help of JELF.
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Destiny A.
Destiny A.
University of Florida & University of California IrvineBachelors in Sustainability in the Built Environment & Masters in Urban and Regional PlanningJELF’s support has allowed me to pursue my dreams of making a positive impact on the community in all that I do. Because of the funding I received in both degree programs, I was able to successfully graduate and find a job doing what I love. Working as a Long-Range Planner for the City of Edmond, OK, I am able to enact real change in the lives of residents. I would not be where I am today without the support of JELF.
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Natalie A.
Natalie A.
Georgia State UniversityInterdisciplinary Studies + Pre-LawJELF has helped me achieve my higher education. As a first generation college student, it’s so important for me to strive higher and create opportunities for myself that my parents didn’t receive. By obtaining my degree, I can continue on to represent immigrants in our justice system and help them get better opportunities.
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Tamir G.
Tamir G.
University of Tampa & University of Central FloridaB.A. Chemistry and Industrial EngineeringAs a student JELF has helped me pay for school and attend a university that I couldn’t without their help. I am truly grateful for their help and the generosity of the donors that contribute to my success!
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Aaron M.
Aaron M.
University of PittsburghDoctor of Dental MedicineWhen I was getting ready to start dental school back in 2015, JELF helped cover some living expenses/tuition which eased a lot of the anxiety I had about starting this new chapter of life in a new city. I graduated from dental school in 2019 and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) in Atlanta the following year. My wife and I (married in March 2020) currently live in Hoschton, GA and I work as an Associate Dentist at an office in Jefferson, GA.
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Sarah B.
Sarah B.
Yeshiva UniversityMarketing B.S.Anything that helped assist me through college has gotten me to where I am today – married, with kids, and in a Director position! School is stressful enough as it is and JELF has helped me with taking a load off my shoulders.
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Danielle B.
Danielle B.
Indiana UniversityBA in MediaHi! My name is Danielle Brawrmen and I am a current freshman at Indiana University – Bloomington. I am a first-generation student in the United States and am pursuing a BA in Media with a concentration in Media Technologies, Games, and Culture and a specialization in Digital Journalism. JELF’s last dollar assistance has allowed me the opportunity to pursue my ideal major at my dream school, and I am forever grateful for that.
I am fortunate enough to have my family contribute to my tuition, but without JELF, none of it would have been possible. Before graduation, I hope to study abroad and participate in some sort of internship in order to develop a better concept of what is expected of me post-graduation. After graduation I would love to be a creative consultant/editor for some sort of magazine. Since I was younger, I have always wanted to be part of that fast-paced environment and I am working hard in order to achieve that goal. I am extremely grateful to JELF for allowing me the opportunity to pursue the best education for me and am thankful to everyone who played a part in helping me be here.
Remember how expensive college was? Rising tuition and inflation means it is even more expensive today!
Pay it forward with a gift to JELF.
When you give back, current (and future) Jewish students can go forward. Additionally, you help strengthen the circle of giving for generations to come!
Does your company match?
If you work for a company that will match your gift, please let us know when you donate.
1,402
total students
paid in full
99% repayment rate
26% of alumni are now steady supporters
$100K
alumni donations
in the past year
Tomer's Story
“Honestly...there was a low point in my life where I couldn't feed myself. JELF provided me with the funds to pay for basic life necessities. That's why it's so important to me as a donor to give back to JELF. Without JELF I don't think I would have completed my undergraduate degree. I truly wouldn't be sitting here."
We want to hear your story or message of thanks. It may lead someone reading to apply or donate! It is easy and takes 2 minutes to fill out.
Each year we have over 100 volunteers, many of whom are former recipients, who give their time to help JELF better help Jewish students.
Did you know JELF has an alumni networking page? It’s a great way to learn more about who may be an alumni in your area and stay connected.
one-on-one support Career Services
Looking for your first job or trying to find your next career opportunity? JELF proudly offers one-on-one resume review with an experienced recruiter (who also happens to be a JELF Alum!)
We love making great connections! Interested in mentorship services or want to become a mentor to others? We would love to try and help.
Local Career Support
Several of JELF's partner agencies proudly offer a multitude of live tools including job search, resume/cover letter, interviewing skills, LinkedIn -- and even one-on-one career coaching. See below for current services within JELF's five-state service area.
Career Connections provides job seekers and businesses with free employment-related support services and resources. Deeply connected with the Jewish community of the Palm Beaches, Career Connections offers unparalleled resources related to a successful job search and career plan.
