Combining her Jewish Identity with her passion for community service, sophomore Kayla Benjamin looks forward to serving on the social action committee for her youth group this year.

Benjamin has been a member of B’nai Amoona United Synagogue Youth (BAUSY) for two years. This year, however, will be different than past years with her new upgraded position.

“I joined the social action committee because I believe that the world is essentially a good place and that I just needs some help,” Benjamin said. “I am looking forward to actually making a difference in my community.”

As a committee member, Benjamin will plan programs to raise money and awareness for various charity organizations. In the coming months, the BAUSY social action committee plans to focus on the issue of hunger and homelessness in the greater St. Louis area.

“We are organizing a food drive for the Jewish Food Pantry,” Benjamin said. “We’re also making food packages and donations for Lydia’s House, which is a home for women and children who are victims of domestic abuse.”

Benjamin invites all Jewish high schoolers to come join her in her efforts. BAUSY meets every Wednesday at 7-8:30pm at B’nai Amoona Synagogue.