GREG FORBES SIEGMAN
TZEDAKAH-SOCIAL ACTION -SOCIAL JUSTICE
BACKGROUND: The First Thirty is based on the true story of a young Jewish person, his efforts to make a difference during the first thirty years of his life, and the first thirty things learned from the people and places he encountered (and setbacks and successes he experienced) along the way. The book is based on the true story of Jefferson Award for Public Service honoree Greg Forbes Siegman. Much of the book focuses on Community Service, Social Action, Social Justice and bringing people of diverse backgrounds together. Part of the book reflects upon Greg's first experience dealing with anti-Semitism and how his Grandma taught him to respond to it (and how to respond to intolerance, in general).
Greg is now asked to speak with schools, parent groups, synagogues, nonprofit organizations, companies, conferences and at other events on topics like Dealing with Intolerance, Community Service, Social Action, Social Justice and Volunteering (including: the value of getting more involved in volunteerism & service, what you &/or your organization can do to get others in your community as involved as you are; and the extraordinary value of a small act of kindness - and the ripple effect from it - in a world where it seems such volunteerism/service would be worth little) . The First Thirty is now used by a wide variety of groups, schools, clubs, teams, synagogues, companies and organizations.
BIO - Greg's Bio
WEBSITE: Greg's website
BOOK WEBSITE: www.TheFirstThirty.com
BOOK SUMMARY: One page synopsis of The First Thirty
HONORS & MEDIA (Sample):
== Article in The Forum on Greg & Elie Wiesel
== The Washington Post Co. on Greg & Steven Spielberg
== Chicago Jewish News Cover Story
== Good Morning America buries Time Capsule which chronicles Greg's efforts to bring people of diverse backgrounds together
== Other media examples include: USA Today, Volunteer Leadership Magazine, CBS, NBC, National Public Radio, Education Week, College News, College Bound Teen Magazine, The Nonprofit Times, Newsweek Kaplan College Guide, Chicago Jewish Star. Cleveland Jewish News. The Jewish State. The Jewish Journal. Hartford Courant. Chicago Sun-Times. Lexington Herald-Leader.
== Greg honored as Zeta Beta Tau's National Man of Distinction.
== Greg (in conjunction with his nonprofit organization, The 11-10-02 Foundation) was featured as one of Ziv Tzedakah Fund's Mitzvah Heroes.
== Other honors include: Jefferson Award for Public Service, America's Daily Point of Light, honored at Princeton University as one of nation's top social entrepreneurs under 40, honored by Hasbro as one of 30 real-life American heroes, CBS Tylenol Hometown Hero, Simply Family's Heroes of the Year, honorary degree from Prairie State College.
BOOKS & SPEECHES (Sample):
== Nobel Peace Prize Honoree Elie Wiesel (Author, Night) and Greg were brought to speak about intolerance and diversity at same school on same day. Greg spoke to the students during the day. Professor Wiesel spoke to the parents during the evening.
== A high school in Connecticut used The First Thirty in conjunction with Tuesdays with Morrie.
== A suburban school used Greg's story in conjunction with Schindler's List and Night as part of a unit on Tolerance & Diversity Read excerpts of essays written by students in that course.
== 2008 Legacy Lecture at South African Jewish Museum
== The Jewish Center in New Jersey ordered hundreds of copies of The First Thirty for the children of its members - and then brought Greg to speak to the students about the value of small acts of kindness.
== Genesis Mitzvah Fund & Justice Squared in Minnesota ordered hundreds of copies of The First Thirty -- one for each of their teen philanthropists -- and brought Greg to speak to them about social action & philanthropy.
== Jewish Federation of St. Louis ordered copies of The First Thirty for some of its staffers
== Greg keynoted event for top donors of Menorah Park in Ohio.
== The First Thirty incorporated into a number of Hillel Centers' Leadership Programs - ordering copies for each student. A Hillel staffer at one of those Centers in Midwest read the book before they were given to the students, liked it so much that she went out and bought dozens of copies for her friends and started a Book Club revolving around the book. Greg invited to speak at variety of events for various Hillel chapters around the country
== Synagogues in Colorado and Illinois collaborate on civic projects with Greg
== Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity - the nation's largest historically Jewish fraternity - did a National Staff-wide reading of The First Thirty, followed by a decision to order copies for every attendee at their National Convention in Los Angeles. Chapters of ZBT at Tufts University, Northwestern University, University of Illinois and University of Miami all subsequently ordered additional copies to donate to groups in their respective local communities as civic/philanthropy engagement projects.
== Temple Chicago Sinai ordered copies of The First Thirty and its companion workbook (A Place To Sit) for its Bar & Bat Mitzvah students program; brought Greg in to keynote their Mitzvah Weekend.
== Keynoted USY event in Wisconsin, did speech & book signing for BBYO as well.
ART: See Greg's portrait of Simon Wiesenthal - part of Greg's art collection "MySleeplessNights.com "
CIVIC: Greg's civic efforts: www.ShakingUpAmerica.org Greg's response to Hurricane Katrina: www.ProjectThankYou.com
SAMPLE OF FEEDBACK FROM SPEECHES
The Forum on Greg & Elie Wiesel, speaking as part of Day of Tolerance (Greg during the day, Wiesel in the evening): "Although Mr Siegman and Professor Wiesel may have had some differences in outlook, their themes were parallel. Both men focused on their desire for change as the world enters the 21st century. Both men realized that our society is more intolerant than it is tolerant. Both men realized that change will never occur if we do not do something to make it occur. Both men agreed that educating youth about intolerance and the atrocities resulting from intolerance is the best way to go about putting an end to prejudice....an extremely poignant message..."
Shea Albert, Executive Director, South African Jewish Museum: "Greg's talk illuminated a number of things for me. Firstly, the powerful difference a single positive action can make. Secondly, the power of the human spirit, demonstrated by his rare determination and resourcefulness. Thirdly, his recognition of the equality in our shared humanity. These resonated strongly with me, and made me think of my own actions and contribution over the years. They made me want to extend myself as a human being...."
Sheila Beder: "Greg Forbes Siegman’s lecture offered a new insight. In addition to his philanthropic approach, I admired his tenacity of purpose and resourcefulness. He showed that everything is possible, given the right attitude."
Joan Fried: "Greg's speech was a very worthwhile experience on many levels. I especially appreciated Greg’s resilience in the way he dealt with potentially daunting situations."
Fiona Sacks, Young Adult Division, I.U.A.-U.C.F. - Welfare: "Thank you so much to Greg for sharing his story last night. I was very inspired by his experiences and his sense of curiosity and wonder. Began reading the book last night and based on the first twelve pages and having met Greg, I have no doubt that he will in the near future be receiving that Academy Award he so clearly visualized as a young boy. The power of visualization is tremendous... What really struck me last night which I knew but Greg put into words so clearly -- immediate action is necessary to start any momentum. He said, 'once a train is rolling, many people one meets are inspired to jump onboard and help. It resonated so much with me as I am currently in that space hestitating about starting a train which is not even a blueprint yet -- hesitating because it is not more than a thought yet -- but Greg allowed me to acknowledge that if I don't start even the shakiest of trains, nothing will begin. It was lovely to meet him."
Heidi Kon, Education Director, Chicago Sinai: "Greg's story was perfect for the kids and way he remained focused and tuned in on his message to them was remarkable. Kids and parents alike agreed that they'd like to hear from him again...I had hoped the kids would come away from their experience with him more creative and determined to make whatever difference in the world they could possibly make. I think this goal was definitely achieved. Thanks...." {Note: The synagogue later invited Greg to keynote their Mitzvah Weekend, and in conjunction with that, ordered copies of The First Thirty and companion workbook, A Place To Sit]
"... After being privileged to hear his remarks at our Donor Appreciation event, I can understand and appreciate the success that he has had in reaching out to a broad constituency...His determination to mirror his success in the lives of so many is an inspiring example of how one life can leverage and impact whole communities...indeed a story that is worth spreading widely..." --Philip: Menorah Park Foundation (OHIO)
"Greg...has inspiring stories to tell...his messages resonated for everyone...sitting in that audience...Greg is a dynamic speaker...We particularly recommend his program for college and high school students...[his story] is a fascinating tale....an unusual and dynamic young man who has dedicated himself to making a difference in the most unconventional ways." - Ziv Tzedakah Fund Newsletter
"The event was perfect. Greg was kind, considerate, loving and hilarious. In 15 years here, I've never seen a response from our members like the one I saw today." - Carol Greenberg, Director, HORIZONS (Florida)
"...we appreciate Greg traveling... to Minnesota to talk to our youth about the importance of service and tikkun olam. The teens were captivated by his talk and it set the perfect tone for the rest of the day's events..." - Elaine Aron, Justice Squared (Minnesota)
"[Greg's talk] about philanthropy carried a special validity to my life at ZBT....I am Community Service Chair. Greg's speech inspired me to get an early start on service in hope that ZBT will be the most active fraternity in the community..." - Chris, college student, USC
"...My own sense, coupled with the feedback I've received, is that Greg's presentation is extremely compelling. It is inspirational and motivational and leaves people with a desire to make a difference..." -- Rabbi Winick, KOACH
"Greg's talk was one of the most significant and inspirational teachings I've heard in 25 years here as a Rabbi." - Rabbi Frankel, Rabbi Emeritus
"I wish to express thanks and deep appreciation for Greg's presentation at our All Committee Meeting...His program was outstanding and many members present have told me how meaningful they found the evening. He truly helped kick off our year of Exploring Roots/Planting Seeds and set a wonderful tone for all of our committee work in the coming year. I thank him again for his time and for the incredible work he is doing." - Ed Alpert, Executive Director, Am Shalom
"...I was so moved by his speech...I have heard many speeches over the years...I have given many speeches to a wide range of audiences. I have never seen a reaction from an audience as I witnessed on the night he spoke [at the ZBT National Convention]...The work he is doing...has inspired others to do...is transforming young lives... -- Joel Wyatt, (formerly of) Harvard University
SAMPLE OF REVIEWS OF GREG'S STORY AND THE BOOK BASED ON IT (THE FIRST THIRTY):
"The legacies of Greg Forbes Siegman and Steven Spielberg are the people they have helped and the lessons and images they have brought to life." - Jay Mathews, The Washington Post
Richard Freedman, National Director, South African Holocaust Foundation: "It was my great pleasure and honour to meet Greg and to have read The First Thirty. It has given me much food for thought and I am quite sure will resonate with me in the years to come. Today is Youth Day in South Africa which recognises the contribution that young people have made in the struggle against apartheid and the rebuilding of our country after apartheid. It is also meant to inspire young people to take on their own potential and to find their way in the world. His book shows how that is possible and that it mostly the curved ball -- or line -- which offers the greatest opportunity for growth and for something special to be achieved. Thank you so much for sharing Greg's story. I am sure that he will continue to be a source of courage and inspiration to all who meet him and I hope that our paths will cross again."
"...I finished reading The First Thirty on a trip...a very welcome companion during a 4 hour layover...I continue to be in awe...an amazingly talented author...I read the ending page over and over again, because I enjoyed it so much...The entire book was such an enjoyable read...I will be distributing the book to about 30 teen tutors in the Shabbat School program at my synagogue as a staff appreciation gift. I also intend to use it, along with the workbook (A Place To Sit) based on the book , as a teaching tool for teen philanthropy recruitment." --Laura Brandys, Genesis Mitzvah Fund Program Coordinator, Jewish Community Foundation (Minnesota)
"Every educator in America should read this story. It reminds me why I became one in the first place." - Amy Ziperstein, Elementary School Teacher, Illinois
"A remarkable story of strength filled with lessons that will take every student through the college years and beyond." - College News
"I really have to tell you, it was really the best book I have ever read. It took me only one day to read it because I liked it so much. It made me think about my life because, like Greg, my life also has its ups and downs...And since I'm Jewish, I also had a couple of remarks about my background and people did in fact discriminate and they even drew swastikas on my table and I got really mad and I had a fight with that kid, I got suspended for that. Even though I think he was the one to blame, I was also wrong to do what I did. I should have taken the path that Greg took [when he faces intolerance] -- talk to the kid who was doing that and, maybe just maybe, he would stop. So, all I want to say is that the book was really an inspiration to me bacause it tells me that there is a place for me in this place we call The World..."- Yan, High School student, New York "I love the ending of the book!!!! I really enjoyed the thirty lessons...I think they are important lessons for everyone to see...Our 7th graders are required to do a Mitzvah Project and I think it would be great to use the book as part of the class...on a separate note, when is the workbook going to be available? " - Sue Weiner, The Jewish Center (NJ)
For more on Greg, go to www.GregForbes.com
To inquire about booking Greg for an event, email Events@GregForbes.com
For more on the book, go to www.TheFirstThirty.com
To inquire about ordering multiple copies of The First Thirty for your staff, your clients, your donors, your members, your class and/or so you can donate them to a local school - shelter - center - or nonprofit organization in your community, email Books@IdeaListEnterprises.com
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