The Sidney Albert Albany Jewish Community Center is seeking applicants for 2026 youth awards, the Herbert A, Applebaum Memorial Award (for males) and the Lenore Bellin Memorial Award (for females).

The purpose of the awards is to honor high school seniors who have established leadership in the Sidney Albert Albany Jewish Community Center, in their synagogue, school and/or community. Winners will receive TBD scholarship checks from the Center and will be honored at the Annual JCC Pillars Award Ceremony in the Spring of 2026.

Herbert Applebaum and Lenore Bellin were both active members of the Albany JCC who died at the age of 19.

For consideration, youth will be asked to provide information about leadership and involvement in an Albany Jewish youth organization and/or synagogue, involvement at the Albany Center, involvement in high school activities (Hebrew or secular), volunteer programs, and employment experience. Individuals must fill out an application and write an essay. The applicants will be asked to include a brief synopsis of why she/he should be considered for the award and include all pertinent accomplishments and involvements.

Applications are available from Andrew Katz at the Albany JCC. He may be contacted at 518-438-6651, ext. 113 or All applicable materials must be received by Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2026 for consideration. Applications and qualifications may be sent to Andrew Katz, Sidney Albert Albany Jewish Community Center, 340 Whitehall Rd., Albany.