MITZVAH DAY: A Day of Community, Compassion, and Unforgettable Impact

What an extraordinary day it was! For the 18th consecutive year, our incredible Jewish community of families from Durham and Chapel Hill... It's one of the ways our family lives out the intention behind Tikkun Olam- to give back and repair the world.

The spirit of giving was palpable as hundreds of volunteers joined forces to support numerous local non-profit community partners, showcasing the incredible strength that comes from unity. Here's a glimpse into the heartwarming accomplishments of this remarkable day:

1. Creating Supportive Cards:

• Participated in crafting heartfelt cards for those affected by the attacks at Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023. This was my personal mission on Mitzvah Day.
• Demonstrated that simple words and caring actions can profoundly affect individuals facing harrowing events.

2. Volunteer Force and Service Projects:

• Mobilized a dedicated team of over 500 volunteers who passionately contributed their time and efforts.
• Successfully completed 28 service projects, each leaving a lasting impact on the community.

3. Animal Welfare Advocacy:

• Crafted 207 dog toys and 31 cat toys for the Animal Protection Society of Durham, promoting the well-being of our furry friends.

4. Environmental Stewardship:

• Embarked on a mission to clean up four local parks, uncovering 160 tennis balls, 10 shoes, and 1 tire.
• Planted 40 trees in collaboration with Keep Durham Beautiful, contributing to the preservation of our environment.

5. Gifts of Joy for Children:

• Purchased, wrapped, and delivered gifts for 41 children in shelters at Families Moving Forward, spreading joy during the holiday season.

6. Diaper Drive and Meal Service:

• Wrapped an impressive 5,105 diapers, supporting the NC Diaper Bank in its mission.
• Served over 400 meals at Urban Ministries, the Durham Rescue Mission, and the Ronald McDonald House, ensuring no one goes hungry.

7. Community Outreach and Connection:

• Sang carols to over 100 Pettigrew and Carol Woods Nursing Homes seniors, fostering connection and joy.
• Delivered treats to first responders in five counties, expressing gratitude for their dedicated service.

8. Creativity and Inclusivity:

• Showcased artistic expression by painting 4 rainbow PRIDE crosswalks on the Jewish for Good campus.
• Assembled 12 "Welcome Home" baskets for new Habitat for Humanity homeowners, creating a warm and inviting start.

9. Educational and Heartwarming Gestures:

• Created 26 calm bottles for The Lerner School and Camp Shelanu, providing tools for relaxation and mindfulness.
• Wrote 43 letters to residents of our sister community, Kibbutz Nir Oz, Israel, fostering a sense of connection across borders.

10. Library Makeover and Thoughtful Gestures:

• Cleaned and organized the Israel Center library at Jewish for Good, creating a welcoming space for knowledge and community.
• Wrote and delivered 43 letters to Kibbutz Nir Oz, Israel residents, showcasing the power of global compassion.
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This Mitzvah Day was not just a day of volunteering but a celebration of the strength that lies in collective goodwill. I am immensely proud to be associated with this amazing group and extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this day a resounding success. Kudos to the entire staff and many volunteers at Jewish for Good Durham-Chapel Hill, NC, for putting together such a meaningful experience. Here's to the power of community, compassion, and creating positive change together!