This past Motzei Shabbat, February 22, the Yavneh Academy seventh grade boys and their families gathered for a meaningful and inspiring evening in support of a fellow bar mitzvah boy from Israel. The event marked the culmination of a special chesed project aimed at raising funds to support a former hostage named Erez from Kibbutz Nir Oz, whose community was devastated by the terror on October 7, 2023. Erez was released from captivity in November 2023 along with his sister; their father, Ofer, was released this month, after 483 days in captivity.
As our families celebrate our sons’ bar mitzvahs, we felt it was more important than ever to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Israel, especially those who have suffered unimaginable loss. By taking part in this initiative, our seventh grade boys learned a powerful lesson about responsibility, compassion, and the deep bond that unites Jews across the world. As they become bar mitzvahs themselves, they are learning that their actions can make a difference in the lives of others.
All funds collected will support Erez through an organization called Yad Chazaka and its Mental Health First Aid program. In addition to the generous donations made by the families in the grade, many of the boys took it upon themselves to raise funds through additional initiatives. Some sold raffle tickets to family and friends, while others organized bake sales and book sales in their neighborhoods. Their creativity and determination were inspiring, and their efforts helped bring us even closer to our goal.
We are also deeply grateful for the support provided by two local vendors, Chopstix and Ma’adan, which provided generous sponsorships, further strengthening our collective effort to make this project a success.
Throughout the evening, families enjoyed games, raffles to raise additional funds, and spirited activities. But beyond the fun, the true purpose of the night was clear: to ensure that Erez, despite the hardships his family has endured, can celebrate his bar mitzvah with joy and dignity.
The fundraising efforts leading up to the event were nothing short of remarkable, with our seventh-grade families contributing generously to reach our goal. Donations will help provide Erez with a meaningful bar mitzvah celebration, a special gift or experience for him and his family, and much-needed counseling services.
The overwhelming response from our community was a testament to the power of unity, empathy, and shared responsibility. We are incredibly proud of our boys for embracing this mitzvah with open hearts and for showing what it means to uplift others in times of need.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all who participated, donated, and worked tirelessly to make this initiative a success. As we celebrate our own milestones, we remain committed to standing with our brothers and sisters in Israel. Am Yisrael Chai!
With thanks from Andrea Fields, Rebecca Hagler, Nessa Liben, Vikki Minsk, Avital Margulies, Lauren Milner, Annie Shore and Rebecca Stamler on behalf of all the Yavneh Academy seventh grade families.
