Ma’ayanot emphasizes the values of service to others, good citizenship and character development. Ma’ayanot students and staff dedicate themselves to living those values. At home or on the road, the Ma’ayanot community is always looking for opportunities to make a positive impact.

Last week, Ma’ayanot collaborated with NCSY to take 14 students on a relief mission to Houston, Texas. Ma’ayanot students showed their exceptional midot tovot and commitment to others in many ways.

Most of the students had not assembled IKEA furniture before, and yet all were enthusiastic about helping to rebuild a house. After some quick safety training and instructions, the students were insulating an attic, climbing extension ladders to paint roof trim and hoisting and sawing ceiling beams. The students were excited knowing that the work would help a family return to a home they haven’t been able to live in since Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Ma’ayanot students also served as prep chefs and waitstaff, offering nourishment, conversation and a smile to an encampment of over 150 unhoused people. Not only did the students work hard to help those who were clearly in need, but they also showed extraordinary character as they interacted with each other and with the local volunteers and professionals. Students joined this trip to perform chesed for others, however, this powerful experience made a lasting impact on them as well.