Jonathan Lederman was with the Coral Springs Jaycees before serving from July 2002 to February 2003 with the Peace Corps in the Philippine
Rebirth of Jaycees
Published Monday, September 20, 2004
by Dale M. King
Jonathan Lederman learned a lot as a member of the Jaycees in Coral Springs and Pompano Beach.
He learned the value of community outreach, earned the self-confidence to speak in public without qualms and came to understand the value of networking and sharing ideas.
Now, as a Boca Raton resident, he is hoping to start a chapter that will serve Boca, Delray and Deerfield Beach.
"There used to be a chapter in Boca," Lederman said. "They used to sponsor haunted houses and holiday shopping for children. But for whatever reason – and I don’t know why – it stopped."
Lederman had planned a couple of organizational events for early September, but Hurricane Frances blew them away – literally.
As a result, he has scheduled a meeting of prospective members for Thursday, Sept. 23 at 7:30 p.m. at the Boca Draft House on Powerline Road north of Camino Real. It is open to all residents age 18 to 40, men and women, interested in improving their own demeanor and that of the community. They can also hone their leadership skills.
"The group, Boca Area Jaycees, needs 20 people to join to be officially chartered and continue the work of the Jaycees organization that began in 1915," he said.
Initial dues are $35 a year, but will increase to $40 and then $60. The group needs $295 to pay for a charter.
"The idea behind having a new chapter in Boca Raton is to have members think globally while acting locally," the organizer said. "It is my hope that in a community as large as Boca Raton, people will step forward and get involved."
Lederman has been involved with Jaycees since 1989. He won a Junior Chamber International Senator award from the international organization in 2001.
He was with the Coral Springs Jaycees before serving from July 2002 to February 2003 with the Peace Corps in the Philippines. When he got out and moved to Boca, he joined the Pompano chapter because Boca had no Jaycees.
The organization teaches people to speak in public, to prepare job resumes and to improve as individuals. It also sets up debate teams and holds classes for families with children who may be hooked on alcohol.
The Jaycees, he said, have been involved in a number of activities – even as far back as women’s suffrage. It initiated driver education classes with help from General Motors and raises money for muscular dystrophy.
The Boca Jaycees will be part of Junior Chamber International, the U.S. Junior Chamber and the Florida Junior Chamber.
Lederman said two people have already given him checks for membership in the group.
Anyone interested in joining can contact Lederman at 561-367-9281, or show up at the Sept. 23 meeting.
