At home, in school and on the go, children are constantly being taught values, including how to build character and properly interact with others. Whether these values are focused on welcoming guests, respecting elders, treating others with kindness or visiting the sick, children are learning how to act in ways that make the world a better place.
Often, discomfort and shyness get in the way of a child’s ability to partake in these values, and therefore create a missed opportunity for forging meaningful relationships. Learning to visit the sick is one thing, but what happens when children feel uncomfortable speaking with someone who is different from themselves?
Areyvut’s Mitzvah Clowning Program aims to create a connection between the education and the application of Jewish values. Through this program, not only do children learn the importance of Jewish values, but they are able to put them into action as well. The act of establishing a new identity as a Mitzvah Clown and putting on silly costumes and fun makeup allows for many kids (and adults too!) to break free of their discomfort and reticence while visiting special-needs children, nursing-home patients and other strangers who are in need of a smile.
Since its debut in 2009, Areyvut has trained over 500 Mitzvah Clowns in the art of clowning, enabling them to actualize the values of visiting the sick, respecting the elderly and treating others with kindness.
“The goal of the Mitzvah Clowning program is to change the world by creating deep, meaningful connections,” says Daniel Rothner, Founder and Director of Areyvut. “The program is extremely empowering. Not only are participants benefiting others by bringing happiness into their lives, but they are helping themselves by seeing how much influence they have on the world.”
Starting October 11, tweens, teens and adults in the Bergen County area will have the opportunity to take part in this unique inter-generational program and learn how to create balloon animals, apply clown makeup and engage in role-play exercises that teach them how to interact with those who are different from them. Following the initial training, the Mitzvah Clowns will go on a site visit and continue to visit various agencies through the month of June.
The October 11 training will take place from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Jewish Home at Rockleigh, 10 Link Dr., Rockleigh, NJ 07647. The cost to participate in this program is $250. This fee includes a clown kit, supplies for the site visits and operational costs.
If you would like to participate in this program, please email [email protected], call 201-244-6702 or visit www.areyvut.org.
