The secret to our success in AZA and BBG is the strength of our leaders. Alephs and BBGs learn new skills and sharpen old ones through year-round training experiences at local and movement levels. Taking time at the beginning of each year to reflect on our wins and identify opportunities for us to grow—as individuals and as chapters—is one of the most important things we can do. When we set goals, understand the responsibilities of our roles, and use the tools that are available to us, we’re unstoppable.
At the start of every semester, chapters and regions run training experiences for teens in formal and informal leadership roles. These moments serve to align teens, staff, and advisors on goals for the upcoming term, learn new and re-fresh familiar best practices, and build plans to kick off their calendar strong. Annually, every community centralizes this training at the community and local levels. Communities offer Regional Board Retreats and local experiences often called Leadership Training Institutes (LTIs). Additional training opportunities are offered year-round on BBYO On Demand for all teens, from any community, to join in.
Leadership Training Institutes (LTIs) are held annually or at the start of every semester for a community's leaders. While traditionally for teens with elected leadership positions, it is a best practice to create space for appointed (chairpersons) or aspiring (engaged members) leaders to join as well. LTIs vary in size and structure, but all share the common goals of: (re)sharing tools and best practices, generating relationships between networks and boards, breaking down goals, and uniting the community around a shared vision for the year ahead.
Model 3
Structure for a 3-day, 2-night experience for chapter leaders and aspiring leaders.
Regional Board Retreats are held at least annually, ideally twice per year, as a moment to onboard community executives. It serves as a moment for boards to get to know one another, prepare boards for success, and establish critical relationships with staff members. These retreats share the common goal of being filled with fun, team building, training moments, breaking down goals, helpful conversations, and building connections. Leaders should walk away with the tools and connections they need to support their community and its chapters.
Model 1
For bringing together a regional/council board for day-long onboarding.
Model 2
A Shabbaton experience that spans 2-days, 1 the regional/council board.
Model 3
Structure for a 3-day, 2-night experience for regional/council board members.
Download templates to edit and customize for your local community that spans core AZA and BBG training topics. Explore our featured training sessions to get started.
Check out additional training sessions that are live in the Program Bank!
Explore curated tools from the BBYO Toolbox to build stunning and fun environments for hosting training experiences. Below is a curated set of branding tools and templates to print for your event. To explore the full library of design tools, check out the design filter on the BBYO Toolbox.
All Design ToolsWhen we offer training experiences, it's important that we model the kinds of spaces we want our members to create throughout the year. Just seeing a well-branded BBYO space can inspire strategic thinking and behaviors. It's the unwritten training during your training weekend! Remember to order items at least two weeks before any event to avoid rush shipping fees.
Size: 4'x7'
Vendor: Echod Graphics
Instructions: Order 13 oz. vinyl banner with 2 grommets on the top side.
Size: 10"x10"
Instructions: Print a huge batch of your photos in this template and cut them out to hang up around your space.
Vendor: Echod Graphics
Instructions: Select Rigid Board and then choose "Foam Board" or "Gator Board" for materials.
Size: 8'x8' or 8'x10'
Vendor: Echod Graphics
Instructions: Order 13 oz. vinyl banner with grommets every two feet on the top side or a pole pocket on the top.
Size: 22"x24"
Vendor: Echod Graphics
Instructions: Select Rigid Board and then choose "Foam Board" or "Gator Board" for materials.
Vendor: Dynamic Gift
Instructions: Email Rebecca Montrenes from Dynamic Gifts and attach desired artwork.
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Size: 4"x3"
Instructions: Order and format on this Avery Template and print at local office. Do some test prints to make sure the name tag lines up—every printer is a little different! Don't forget to order the name tag plastics, too!
Sizes: 11"x8.5"
Instructions: Print on card stock at local office. If you have time, trim the edges for best result.
Small touches can go a long way to making someone feel welcomed. Use the tools below to model great hosting.
Size: 6' roll
Vendor: Zazzle
Instructions: Upload the BBYO Menorah icon and size to your liking
Download templates to edit and customize for your local community that spans core AZA and BBG training topics. Explore our featured training sessions to get started.
Check back soon for additional training sessions that will be live in the Program Bank this August!
Alephs and BBGs who receive Movement training will likely be eligible for several highly esteemed International Awards. Be sure to encourage those who you have worked with to explore what they may be eligible for.
Explore International AwardsWant to keep learning? Explore more in the Toolbox!
Resource
Use this to learn all about serving as Mazkirah and find more tools and information at bbyo.org/mazkirim.
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Get to know the governance of AZA & BBG and how you can lead in our teen-led democracy at all levels.
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Ratified in May 2025 by the 101st International Executive Body.
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Use this to learn all about serving as Mekasheret and find more tools and information at bbyo.org/morim.
ExploreResource
Community Mapping is a process where we explore the layout of our communities to understand who we know and what’s around us so we can use our network and connections to help grow, program, and fundraise.
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Use this guide to prepare to facilitate a local chapter or community program.
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Use this road map of best practices and tips to build one of the most important relationships: boards and staff.
ExploreDesign
Hang these posters around your next event to educate members on Movement moments, platforms, and opportunities.
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Brainstorm what you already have and what you want to buy to make your spaces look and feel epic.
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