Community Contact Information:
Temple Am Shalom
Glencoe, IL
www.amshalom.com
Goals:
- Engage the b’nai mitzvah student in a simple, personal act of tzedakah.
- Provide gifts of new toys to needy children.
Overview:
At many b’nai mitzvah parties, organizers decorate tables with extravagant displays of flowers, photos, toys or ice sculptures. In many cases, these centerpieces are thrown away soon after the party. To encourage b’nai mitzvah students to perform acts of tzedakah, students were asked to create centerpieces that could then be donated to local community shelters.
Preparation:
Sit down with the b’nai mitzvah child to discuss the possibility of decorating their b'nai mitzvah (bar/bat mitzvah) party with goods to be donated. The b'nai mitzvah (bar/bat mitzvah) student can research local organizations that accept donations to identify local needs. With this information, centerpiece displays can be created from goods to be donated. For example, for a sports-themed party, The b'nai mitzvah (bar/bat mitzvah) student can purchase baseballs, bats, soccer balls, Frisbees, and other sports equipment. For a Disney-themed party, stuffed animals, board games, videos, etc. can be purchased.
Project Implementation:
Each centerpiece should include a few table signs to explain to guests that these goods will be donated. An announcement can be made to explain the destination of the centerpieces (so that guests are not tempted to take them as parting gifts). After the party ends, dismantle the centerpieces and deliver the new items to the organization of your choice.
Results:
B’nai mitzvah students will feel proud both at their accomplishments on the bimah and the simple, fun and creative way they provided valuable gifts to children with similar interests.
