Zack and Melissa Kolstein Receive Kudos from the Union for Reform Judaism

The dynamic duo of Zack and Melissa Kolstein has been recognized by the Union for Reform Judaism as role model youth leaders who guide the 90 member high school youth group at Barnert Temple in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. The Kolsteins, a young married couple with a baby daughter, are perfectly situated to relate well to the challenges, joys and struggles of teenagers while offering mature counsel on topics including relationships, peer pressure, faith and appropriate communication skills. “Melissa and Zack inspire Barnert teens to realize that they are part of something larger than themselves and to pursue paths for ethical and spiritual growth in their lives,” said Pam Himeles, President of Barnert Temple.

Zack and Melissa have been leading the ever-growing Barnert youth program for six years, and several of the group’s members have gone on to serve on regional and national boards. “They make being a youth leader look easy,” said Abbye Eisenthal, who nominated the pair for the award, “and they continue to push their teens to take the next step towards greatness.”

If you ask the tireless team the secret to their success, they agree that it takes a full commitment coupled with endless enthusiasm. “Be visible, share your thoughts and ideas with the group, encourage them, and then go for them!” says Zack, adding, “and always leave them wanting more.” There is no doubt that the core values of Barnert Temple that include mutual respect, partnership, repair of our world, questioning and seeking insight and love of the Jewish people and the State of Israel are vibrantly modeled by the Kolsteins, nurturing the next generation of Jewish leaders.

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