After the flurry of Jewish holidays in the fall, it’s no wonder that the month of Cheshvan, which follows on the heels of Sukkot, is devoid of Jewish holidays. But in recent years, a new cause for celebration has emerged in this festively barren corner of the calendar: Jewish Social Action Month (JSAM). As the name suggests, this global holiday celebrates volunteerism and acts of tikkun olam (the month runs from October 28th to November 26th 2011).This year, UJA-Federation of New York gave out grants to over 100 organizations to collaborate on social action projects, with preference given to organizations that brought together people from different backgrounds. Old and young, immigrant and native born, Sephardi and Ashkenaz, Orthodox and Reform would get to know each other while working towards a common purpose. If you’re interested in getting involved, and you live in the New York City, Westchester, or Long Island area, the organization has a list of volunteer projects you can register for, including:
- Join Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester for an afternoon of preparing and serving Thanksgiving meals at HOPE House. The event will be held on Thursday, November 24th, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- The Tanger Hillel at Brooklyn College is looking for volunteers to spend time with senior citizens by sharing stories and enjoying cultural outings. This will be once a week at noon for four weeks until December 13th.
- Do you enjoy working with students? High schoolers at the John Jay educational complex in Park Slope are in need of tutors from now through the end of the school year.
[Images by Ed Sweeny]
