Eighth grade chesed mornings at Yavneh Academy have begun! The students are continuing their wonderful relationship at the Jewish Home at Rockleigh, and have added visiting Daughters of Miriam, performing for Cafe Europa and learning the art of Mitzvah Clowning.

Accompanied by Mrs. Lichtiger and Morah Moriya, Yavneh Academy eighth graders and the residents of the Jewish Home at Rockleigh have proven that there is no generation gap. The students brought their iPads with them and introduced the residents to technology. Using their devices, the students discussed and researched the residents’ origins and hometowns as they taught them how to use Google Maps.

Cafe Europa is an opportunity for Holocaust survivors to enjoy a meal and socialize with other fellow survivors. Yavneh students, accompanied by Morah Baruchov and Rabbi Burstein, mingled with the survivors and learned about their lives. Students read poetry, performed songs from Fiddler on the Roof, presented an original dance and enjoyed a solo pianist performance.

Dr. Frohlich and Mr. Rossman accompanied Yavneh students to the Daughters of Miriam nursing home on Wednesday. There the students did a brushless art project where they made autumn trees using straws, q-tips, and toothbrushes instead of traditional brushes. Students chatted with the residents while they painted together. The morning ended with some singing together.

Mitzvah Clowning started as well. Led by Daniel Rothner of Areyvut, the students learned the art of improvisation and just how much health can be spread through Mitzvah Clowning. In future sessions, the students will be cheering up patients at local hospitals and nursing homes.