Stories @ CSI

On a sunny Sunday in April, more than 80 participants from Shearith Israel’s B’nai Mitzvah cohorts (4th-8th grades) joined together for Yom Mitzvah—a day dedicated to service and giving back. Students and their families rotated through five meaningful activities, many of which are part of ongoing service partnerships through Shearith Israel For Good.

Projects included weeding and maintaining the Arlene Brightman Garden, creating seed balls to support pollinators with Adamah ATL, writing cheerful cards for isolated seniors for national nonprofit Love for Our Elders, notes of support for Israeli soldiers, packing food bags for local students in need with Backpack Buddies, and writing notes of appreciation for teachers at Briar Vista Elementary School, where Shearith Israel members tutor.

Yom Mitzvah gave families in the midst of their B'nai Mitzvah journey a hands-on opportunity to learn about the Jewish values of Gemilut Chasadim, Shemirat HaAdamah, Kibud Z'kaynim, Ha'achalat Re'evim, and Bal Tashchit while building ties with each other. Kol Hakavod to our Chai Five peer leaders for facilitating this event, our Shearith Israel for Good leaders, and everyone who participated and made a lasting impact!