Yavneh Academy seventh graders visited the Hackensack Homeless shelter as part of their advisory class and their unit on Operation Respect, where they learned and implemented the skills of empathy. First, they were met by County Executive James Tedesco, who came especially to meet the students and praise them for their kindness. Julia Orlando, director of the shelter, then met with the students, who asked numerous insightful questions which demonstrated how much they were impacted by this visit.

The students proceeded to the cafeteria where the “guests” at the shelter were waiting. They were led in the song “One Day” by Azi Steiner. The exuberance the students demonstrated as they sang was truly inspirational. The students then gave out gift bags containing the hats, gloves and scarves they collected, as they conversed with the recipients. As they sat and engaged the guests in conversation, they demonstrated what it means to truly care for others. The directors and employees of the shelter were impressed with their maturity and sensitivity. It was a true kiddush Hashem.