It’s no secret that St. Louis is home to a wonderful philanthropic community. And thanks to young friends groups, professionals in their 20s, 30s and early 40s can easily get involved in giving back. These are three of many that offer opportunities for young adults to make an impact.

jewish federation of st. louis
When Becca Near learned about the Jewish Federation of St. Louis’ young adult group, YPD, she instantly fell in love with the program. “It’s all about engagement and teaching our generation to be leaders,” says Near, who is now young adult coordinator for the nonprofit. “I think it’s really important for young adults to know that there is a vibrant Jewish community in St. Louis, and there are so manys ways to get connected.”

As just one branch of the Jewish Federation, YPD works with the organization for social, educational and leadership development events. It recently held its first trivia night, and every Christmas Eve, it hosts LollapaJEWza. “We’ve been doing it for 10 years, and it’s an opportunity for young adults to get together and celebrate being Jewish,” Near explains. The group also participates in community outreach, and through the Shabbat Shalom program, members visit different synagogues to experience services, share a meal and talk with the rabbis.

How to get involved:
Contact Near at bnear@jfedstl.org, or visit jfedstl.org/community-engagement/ypd.

word pediatric project
“We have an emerging leaders group for professionals in their 20s and 30s,” explains Linda Boyland, vice president of development. “Members help with fundraising and introduce young professionals to the organization.” The group also supports the nonprofit through volunteer efforts. Members help families visiting the U.S. for health care by transporting them to medical appointments, taking them on outings during downtime, and providing social and emotional support.

Along with volunteering at other World Pediatric Project fundraisers throughout the year, Boyland says the young professionals group has its own signature event: Rock ‘n’ Heal. “It’s in its sixth year, and it’s an all-inclusive party with live music and unique auctions,” Boyland says. “It raises awareness for our organization and helps support our mission to build health care capacity and heal critically ill children.”

How to get involved:
Contact Boyland at lboyland@worldpediatricproject.org, or visit worldpediatricproject.org.

saint louis zoo 
As it is for many locals, the Saint Louis Zoo is one of Katie Lineberry’s favorite spots. By joining the Zoo Young Professional Advisory Board, she found the perfect way to engage with the local institution. “At its core, the zoo is about taking care of animals, and the board helps spread that mission,” says Lineberry, who is board president. “We have a dynamic, diverse group of professionals in their 20s and 30s. People associate the zoo with families and children, but we want to increase awareness among young adults.”

The group’s signature event is Jammin’ at the Zoo. “It’s a very fun wine and beer tasting we host a couple of times each summer,” Lineberry explains. This year, the board has added a fundraising goal to be able to provide scholarships for 60 campers at Camp Kangazoo. Members also volunteer at annual events like Zootoberfest, Boo at the Zoo and Wild Lights. Lineberry says one of the best opportunities has been serving on other committees. She is currently on the conservation council. “I’ve gotten to learn about how the zoo helps animal populations around the world,” she notes. “It’s really awesome to have that additional layer of involvement.”

How to get involved:
For membership info or to apply to join the board, visit stlzoo.org/membership/zooyoungprofessionals.