(Courtesy of Yad Leah) Seniors from Ramaz High School, Ma’ayanot and TABC visited the Yad Leah Volunteer Center as part of their end-of-year activities, where they gained insight from Yad Leah’s Chesed Experience leaders on how to stay engaged in volunteer work throughout their adult lives.
Rav Yoni Mandelstam of TABC shared that one of his goals in bringing the seniors to Yad Leah was for them to learn firsthand from those who run the organization about the importance of chesed. On the day TABC visited, Elana Mandel from Bergenfield, New Jersey—mother of student Yonah Mandel—was the Chesed-Experience Leader.
“Our students now understand that Yonah Mandel’s mom devotes so much of her time to helping clothe those in need in Israel. Through her example, they saw how an ordinary person can make an extraordinary impact.” Mandelstam explained.
Yad Leah Chesed-Experience Leaders come from across New Jersey and play a crucial role in the organization. On a semi-weekly basis, they guide groups from schools, shuls, and bar and bat mitzvah celebrations on how to sort, pack and label boxes of clothing bound for Israel.
“Their volunteer leaders are beyond inspiring,” said Rachel B., a student from Ramaz.
Ilana Adams from Bergenfield is one of the most active leaders at Yad Leah. Why does she do it? “It’s loads of fun!” she said. “Music and laughter fill the beautiful volunteer center. I’m inspired by bat mitzvah girls who take their special day and turn the spotlight on those in need. I also love being part of someone’s 80th birthday celebration, where they choose to teach their grandchildren about community service.”
Yad Leah is always looking for more volunteers to lead packing experiences at their volunteer center in Passaic, New Jersey. If you are interested in finding out more about this opportunity, please contact info@yadleah.org.
