As part of the Yavneh seventh grade unit on respect in their Advisory classes, the students were challenged to learn the skills of empathy and gain a true understanding of the struggles of the homeless. The unit began with an inspirational presentation by Adelina Garabet from the homeless shelter in Hackensack. Since the shelter is still not accepting outside visitors due to Covid, the students recorded a heartfelt presentation during which student representatives shared words of encouragement related to the two songs students sang. The video of the recording will be played for the residents of the shelter. The seventh graders then spearheaded a campaign to collect hats, gloves and scarves for the residents in the shelter. Students decorated gift bags for the donations and included a note from Yavneh Academy. The students learned that real empathy must translate into actions to truly make a difference in the lives of others.