When asked if I will “serve and stay” during elections, I usually use it as an opportunity for a quip. “Like a waitress,” I’ll say. “Like a tennis player.” “Like a soldier.” But “serve and stay” actually says something important about BBYO. Whether you get the board position you want or not, you swear that you will stay an active member. Whether it’s a fun convention or a low-key JCC movie night, you stay for programming. Stay is more than a promise you make on election night. It’s an action, and I find that “stay” is just as important as “serve.” Losing an election is not the end of a BBYO journey. In my case, it was just the beginning. That’s why I’m here, writing for The Shofar. 

Here’s something many people told me when I lost an election for chapter N’siah: “You’ll have another chance next term.” 

I disagree.

Why wait for the next term at all? Do you want a leadership position? Do you want to get more involved in BBYO? You can start now. That’s what I’m telling you. If you’ve lost an election for the board or never ran in the first place, know that board is NOT the only way to be involved in BBYO. The International Leadership Network (ILN) is where you can find something that connects to any interest (The 4 C’s: committees, clubs, coordination, and cohorts). It doesn’t matter if you are in a board position, have ever held one, or plan on it - anyone can join the ILN. Depending on your region, look into applying for a Regional Leadership Network (RLN) position. Apply to coordinate a convention and help give your chapter a weekend to remember. Help raise money for GivingBBYO or serve the community through Jserve. Join the fight against the rise of antisemitism. These are just a few examples of the countless opportunities to get involved without being on board. The BBYO website is an amazing resource to find opportunities like these. We are lucky enough to live in a time where so much information is at our fingertips. 

So, do what I did: wipe your tears and get typing. Search. Find a way to channel your passion into positive change in BBYO or the world. If nothing appeals to you, make a club and connect with other BBGs and Alephs with your interests.

I spent the last year in BBYO as S’ganit of my chapter (two consecutive terms). At the end of them, I decided I wasn’t done being a leader in BBYO. Whether or not I’m on the chapter board doesn’t change that. So, if you’re feeling discouraged by election results or are not interested in being on the chapter/regional board, there’s still a way for you to be a leader in BBYO. All you need to do is look for something that appeals to you, hold on tight, trust the process, and stay.

So, next time you hear those words at elections, remember all the options you have. Remember that BBYO possibilities are endless. There’s a way for everyone to serve - like a soldier, like a waitress, or even like James Charles.