A Day of Service, and Community
As a culmination of the Hesed lessons they have learned since Playgroup, our MDY 8th graders devoted an entire day to a memorable Hesed Mission, and their kindness shone throughout. Students visited individuals with disabilities, connecting, dancing, and learning to read the quiet cues of those around them, who needed a laugh, who wanted to join in, and who preferred calm companionship. They engaged with autistic children through hands-on projects, gaining a deeper understanding of how every child communicates in their own unique way.
Our MDY students also rolled up their sleeves in support of families in our community. In partnership with Toys for Hospitalized Children, they wrapped toys and personalized festive cards, inspired by the belief that “happy kids heal faster.” They joined a Target scavenger hunt for essential items used by families who rely on our SBH Food Pantry. Using traditional ingredients, they prepared trays of Mazza appetizers to be distributed to those in need.
At lunchtime, the grade was uplifted by inspirational words from MDY Rabbinical Leader, Rabbi Eli J. Mansour, and Mrs. Sophia Cohen, founder of Urban Pops, who encouraged them to carry the spirit of Hesed into their lives long after graduation. Their messages added meaning and reflection to an already powerful day.
Back at school, students participated in team-building activities led by Dina Kraiem, reinforcing connection, cooperation, and the shared purpose they had built through their Hesed work.
None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our parent volunteers, led by our 8th grade captains, Michelle Arakanchi and Jenny Levy. Their example showed our children what Hesed looks like in real life, and the leadership of our MDY PTA volunteers reinforced that giving, caring, and supporting others are values lived at home as well as at school.
Throughout the day, our 8th graders showed extraordinary empathy, teamwork, and awareness. Host organizations shared glowing feedback about their warmth and maturity. We could not be prouder.
The day concluded with a recap slideshow, giving students the chance to see the impact of their efforts and to take pride in the good they brought into the world. They ended the day uplifted, inspired, and eager to continue doing Hesed beyond the walls of MDY.
