In 2010, Philadelphian moms Cheryl Friedenberg and Valerie Franklin (pictured left), created The Mitzvah Bowl Website to provide a database of meaningful community service projects for both Bar and Bat Mitzvah students, as well as teens seeking volunteer opportunities.
The Website is organized in such a fashion that it allows kids to find the right project based upon a subject matter that they are passionate about or something that piques their interest. Friedenberg and Franklin’s goal is to uncover unique projects for teens that reach beyond basic fundraising. They want children to learn a sense of tikkun olam (repair of the world), responsibility, and a connection to their Jewish identity, as well as their community.
The Website, which is very easy to navigate, walks students through the process of choosing a Mitzvah project. Parents can work along side their children to help guide them the numerous choices.
For a variety of additional volunteer ideas, visit their page, More Ideas, to spur even more creativity when deciding on a Bar or Bat Mitzvah project.
You will also find additional ideas on MitzvahMarket.com in our Mitzvah Project resource section.
