Denver, CO – Rose Community Foundation is seeking Jewish volunteers in their 20s and 30s who want to be part of a grantmaking program called Roots & Branches Foundation. Eighteen people will be selected to learn about strategic philanthropy and Jewish philanthropic traditions, and to award up to $110,000 in grants to solve problems in the community. Applications to participate will be accepted through Wednesday, June 2.

Rose Community Foundation is looking for a diverse group of individuals, including those who are involved in Jewish life and those who are not; those who identify as secular, Orthodox and everything in between; and those who are native Coloradans, as well as newcomers to the area. Applicants must live in the seven-county Denver Metro area.

Now in its fourth year, Roots & Branches Foundation members will meet every two to four weeks on Monday evenings between July 2010 and February 2011. The group will work with Rose Community Foundation staff to explore strategic philanthropy, identify community needs, review grant proposals and visit prospective grantees.

Not only did Roots & Branches connect me with other Jews my age, but it sparked a passion to become a committed and active member in the community,” says Melissa Combs, former Roots & Branches member.

Jews between 25 and 40 interested in being part of Roots & Branches Foundation can apply online at rcfdenver.org/initiatives_roots.htm.