Sam & Luke Goldstein Honored with Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award

Jewish Family Service of Atlantic & Cape May Counties (JFS) is pleased to share that brothers Sam and Luke Goldstein of Linwood, New Jersey, were recognized with the Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. JFS nominated the brothers for the prestigious award as part of National Philanthropy Day.

The honor, which was announced by the AFP New Jersey Southern Chapter, selected Sam, 13, and Luke, 10, for their immense contributions to organizations throughout the community. The brothers, along with their parents, Jason and Jessica, are active participants in their community raising money and collecting goods for non-profit agencies including Jewish Family Service.

With their focus on providing for the JFS Food Pantry, Sam and Luke understand the significance of collecting non-perishable food and basic essentials. From helping at food drives to stocking the pantry to coat collections for the homeless, they are a staple at JFS.

When the COVID-19 pandemic reached our area, the brothers did not miss a beat in helping community members in need. While adhering to social distancing guidelines, Sam and Luke knocked on neighbors’ doors, visited local businesses and embraced family and friends in order to either get donated products or financial support. Throughout their volunteerism, Sam and Luke collected and donated in excess of 300 bags of food to JFS to support everyday needs as well as Thanksgiving, High Holidays and more.

In addition, Sam and Luke also put together a clothing drive, as part of JFS’ Project Homeless Connect, to help those in need during the frigid winters. By collecting coats, hats, scarves, gloves, blankets and more, they supplied enough merchandise for more than 50 individuals.

“At JFS, we are thankful for Sam and Luke’s stellar work and applaud them for being presented with this esteemed award,” said Andrea Steinberg, JFS’ Chief Executive Officer. “It has been amazing to experience these brothers contributions to the community as they have grown,” she added.

The brothers also support the following organizations and businesses – Our Children Making Change, Seashore Gardens Living Center, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Delaware Valley.

“Recognizing the philanthropic endeavors of South Jersey’s youth is by far the best part of the event. JFS has cultivated two wonderful young stewards of making change in our community in giving Sam and Luke the foundation to express and act upon their philanthropic goals and wishes. I am excited to see how their journey will continue,” said Julie Fink, CFRE, President Elect and NPD Event Co-Chair, AFP, NJ Southern Chapter.

To send a tribute congratulating the brothers on this monumental achievement, contact JFS’ Communications & Donor Relations Specialist Susan Kotzen at skotzen@jfsatlantic.org.