Published January 2, 2024
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.
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!
