The Bureau of Jewish Education’s
Teen Volunteer Resource Guide
The “Teens Take Action Resource Guide” can help you discover unique ways you can make a positive difference in the lives of others, and to help you create meaningful mitzvah projects. This guide can be used as a springboard to help you brainstorm agencies to contact in your area that match your interests. It is grouped by topics of interest: animals, children, environment, helping the elderly, helping the sick, special needs, assisting the poor, helping neighbors locally and globally, and tzedakah ideas.
“A person should feed his or her animal before eating.”(Talmud, Berakhot 40a)
Being Kind to Animals
Tza-ar Ba-alei Hayim ohhj hkgc rgm
Our tradition regards the life of all of God’s creatures – animals included – as precious. This mitzvah, literally “compassion for the pain of living creatures,” teaches us that people must treat their animals humanely and prevent or minimize their suffering.
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
www.cabrilloaq.org
3720 Stephen White Drive
San Pedro, CA 90731
(310) 548-8398
Volunteer Opportunities: Be trained to become a “Sea Ranger” where you can help protect the tide pools, shoreline, and salt marsh, and assist in our community classes.
Age: 6th grade or older
Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort-C.A.R.E.
www.capoanimalrescue.com
P.O. Box 1089
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92693
(949) 240-1735
Our mission is to protect the welfare of the animals we come in contact with, and to promote the humane treatment and well being of these animals.
Age: Younger than 18 years old need to be accompanied by a parent
Volunteer opportunities: Can assist with animal care; have many special events throughout the year that need volunteer help; can assist in office; applications can be downloaded off our website; can collect beach towels, litter bags, pillowcases
Community Action Network (C.A.N.)
http://www.animalnetwork.org/AN-main.html
(949) 697-6632, DiAnna Pfaff-Martin
(949) 759-3646, phone number to volunteer for weekend adoption program
Volunteer opportunities: Responsible student volunteers are needed to help at Fashion Island in front of Russo’s Pet Store on weekends; we also need people to temporarily house and care for local cats and kittens until good homes are found (all food and medical bills are covered by C.A.N.)
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Dedication and Everlasting Love to Animals (D . E. L. T . A. Rescue)
P.O. Box 9
Glendale, CA 91209
(818) 241-6282
Established in 1982, Dedication and Everlasting Love to Animals operates the only wilderness rescue, no-kill care for life program in the country. We are the largest no-kill animal shelter of its kind in the world, rescuing and caring for over 1,500 abandoned animals. We reach over 3 million people a year to educate them with regard to the plight of animals, and to encourage them not to abandon their pets. Volunteer opportunities: groups can collect blankets, animal toys, and treats for dogs and cats
Greyhound Pets of America (GPA)
http://www.fastfriends.org./
1210 N. Cypress Street
La Habra Heights, CA 90631
(562) 694-3519
Greyhound Pets of America is dedicated to finding kind, loving homes for every greyhound retiring from the Caliente Race Track in Tijuana.
Volunteer opportunities: To work with the dogs you need to have your parent with you, but we do have many ways to help, so please call for more information
Hemopet Pet Life Line
www.hemopet.com
11330 Markon Dr.
Garden Grove, CA 92841
(714) 891-2022
This is a canine blood bank source where greyhounds are rescued at end of racing career; brought in as blood donors for 1 year, and then put up for adoption
Age: Less than 15 years old can assist if accompanied by a parent
Volunteer opportunities: help in kennels with bathing, brushing, walking
Orange County Animal Care Services
www.ocpetinfo.com
561 The City Drive South
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 935-6848
Cares for injured and lost animals
Volunteer opportunities: Can collect for wish list items such as old bedding, towels, etc. Call to see what we currently need.
For Future Opportunities:
Irvine Animal Care Center
www.cityofirvine.org/depts/cs/animalcare/volunteering.asp info@irvineshelter . org
6443 Oak Canyon Road
Irvine, CA 92620
(949) 724-7747
Age: 14 and older
Volunteer opportunities: Feeding, walking, grooming, and cuddling cats, dogs, & bunnies
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Orange County Animal Rescue Coalition (OCARC)
www.oc-arc.com
P.O. Box 19393
Irvine, CA 92623
(949) 451-3272, hotline—leave a message and a volunteer coordinator will contact you
OCARC specializes in the rescue, fostering and adoption of kittens and nursing mothers with kittens. Age: Younger than 18 years old need to be accompanied by a parent
Volunteer opportunities: Looking for volunteers with ongoing commitment (once a week for 6 months) to clean cages, fill water and food, and socialize with cats
Pacific Marine Mammal Center
www.pacificmmc.org
20612 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 494-3050
This organization helps sick or injured seals and sea lions.
Volunteer opportunities: Can collect items for their wish list, but must be 18 years old to help at their facility. Please call for current list.
Pacific Wildlife Project
www.pacificwildlife.org
C/O Irvine Animal Care Center P.O. Box 7673
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607 (949) 831-1178
Volunteer opportunities: animal care and feeding; office assistance
Animal Fundraising idea: make and sell dog biscuits (can do this with a group of friends), and give the profits to an animal agency of your choice. See what a Girl Scout troop did for German Shepard Rescue http://www.gsrescue.org/news/AthenaArticle.htm
Athena’s Gourmet Doggie Biscuits
3⁄4 cup hot water
1/3 cup margarine
1⁄2 cup powdered milk
3 cups whole wheat flour 1⁄2 tsp salt
2 tsp sugar
1 egg, beaten
In large bowl, pour hot water over margarine. Stir in powdered milk, salt, sugar, and egg. Add flour, 1⁄2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Knead 4-5 minutes, adding more flour, if necessary, to make a very stiff dough. Pat or roll to 1⁄4 inch thickness, and cut out with cookie cutter. Place on greased baking sheet (or line cookie sheet with parchment paper) and bake 45 minutes at 325 degrees. Allow to cool completely.
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“Educate a child according to his or her way.” (Proverbs 22:6)
Education/Work With Children
Hinukh Ha-banim ohbcv lubj
The Boys and Girls Clubs have a variety of locations throughout Orange County. They offer afterschoolactivitiesfromMondaythroughFridayforschoolagechildren. Thevolunteer opportunities for most of these locations are for 11 and older to assist with coaching, art, and homework anytime from 3:00-7:00pm.
Boys and Girls Club of Anaheim
311 E. Broadway Anaheim, CA 92805 (714) 491-3617
Boys and Girls Club of Brea
502 S. Sievers Brea, CA 92821 (714) 990-0215
Boys and Girls Club of Buena Park
7758 Knott Ave.
Buena Park, CA 90620 (714) 522-7259
Boys and Girls Club of Cypress
10161 Moody St. Cypress, CA 90630 (714) 527-2697
Boys and Girls Club of Huntington Beach
9191 Pioneer Drive Huntington Beach, CA 92646 (714) 964-4526
Boys and Girls Club of Irvine
295 E. Yale Loop Irvine, CA 92604 (949) 551-8214
Boys and Girls Club of Laguna Beach
1085 Laguna Canyon Road Laguna Beach, CA 92651 (949) 494-2535
Boys and Girls Club of Newport Beach
2555 Vista del Oro Newport Beach, CA 92660 (949) 640-6650
Boys and Girls Club of Fountain Valley Boys and Girls Club of Placentia
16582 Brookhurst St. Fountain Valley, CA 92708 (714) 531-2582
Boys and Girls Club of Fullerton
348 W. Commonwealth Ave. Fullerton, CA 92832
(714) 525-8241
Boys and Girls Club of Harbor Area
661 Hamilton St.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627 (949) 631-7724
132 E. Crowther Ave. Placentia, CA 92870 (714) 528-8140
Boys and Girls Club of South Coast
1304 Calle Valle
San Clemente, CA 92674 (949) 492-0376
Boys and Girls Club of Tustin
580 W. 6th St. Tustin, CA 92781 (714) 838-5223
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Bowers Kidseum
http://www.bowers.org/kidseum/kidseum.asp
2002 North Main Street
Santa Ana, CA 92706
(714) 567-3600
The Bowers Museum of Cultural Art promotes education and understanding by bringing the world’s great cultural art to people of all ages. Kidseum is a hands-on cultural arts and education center for the local students and community.
Volunteer opportunities: assist in our art lab, art prep work, face painting, tutoring for our after school program
Critterton Services – Community for Kids
http://www.kidsmatter.org/
P.O. Box 9
Fullerton, CA 92836-0009
(714) 680-8218
Provide housing for abused and troubled boys and girls (and their families)
Volunteer opportunities: Conduct a drive for books, clothing, diapers, funds, games, sport equipment, etc.
16 or older & with parent: can be a part of our “cookie connection club”-sign-up, go thru orientation, then can help with special events at their campus
Age: 16+ Volunteer opportunities: Rock babies in the nursery during the summer. Plan a fun project or party, share a meal, play a game, and/or do a craft project with the kids.
Heritage Park Library (This library is one example of how teens can help in a library setting. Contact your local library www.ocpl.org to learn more about volunteer programs.)
14361 Yale Ave
Irvine, CA 92604
(949) 551-7151
Age: 11 and older
Volunteer opportunities: assist with summer reading program; tutoring
T.H.I.N.K. TOGETHER: Orange County Learning Centers
www.thinktogether.org
Corporate Office
2001 E. Fourth St., Suite 200
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 543-3807
T.H.I.N.K. TOGETHER’s mission is to establish after-school learning centers in low-income neighborhoods where volunteers tutor students to help change the future one child at a time. We have 20 centers throughout Orange County, but you need to contact our corporate office to sign-up as a volunteer.
Volunteer opportunities: We could use help tutoring children at our elementary school sites. There is no minimum work requirement, but we prefer at least once a week for 2 hours. On Fridays, we have volunteers come in and share special talents—music, different cultures, languages, etc. We are interested in starting clubs in reading, math, writing, etc. and need volunteers to help with this program. We are open to almost anything, and want to open the world for their students.
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For Future Opportunities:
Friendly Center (Homework House)
www.homeworkhouse.com
147 W. Rose St.
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 771-5300
Dedicated to supporting children, families and senior citizens reach their greatest potential Age: 8th grade and older for tutoring
Volunteer opportunities: Any age can collect food and educational toys, or have a book drive for elementary age children.
Orange County on Track
P.O. Box 4141
Tustin, CA 92781
(714) 531-7144
Age: 9th grade and older
Volunteer opportunities: Youth to youth mentoring; tutor kids at risk in grades 3rd – 5th; participate in “On Track Teen Council”; assist with publishing “Contract Magazine”
“The majority of us lead quiet, unheralded lives as we pass through this world. There will most likely be no ticker-tape parades for us, no monuments created in our honor.
But that does not lessen our possible impact, for there are scores of people waiting for someone just like us to come along; people who will appreciate our compassion, our unique talents. Someone who will live a happier life merely because we took the time to share what we had to give.
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have a potential to turn a life around. It’s overwhelming to consider the continuous opportunities there are to make our love felt.”
–Leo Buscaglia
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“When you wage war against a city,…do not destroy its trees.” (Deuteronomy 20:19)
CARING FOR THE EARTH
Bal Tash-hit ,hja, kgc
Our tradition tells us that when God created the world, God gave Adam and Eve theresponsibilitytocareforit. Thismitzvah,whichliterallymeans,“Donot destroy,” gives human beings the responsibility to maintain and preserve the Earth throughout the generations.
Adopt-A-Park Program
www.ocparks.com/adoptapark/default.asp
1 Irvine Park Rd.
Orange, CA 92862
(714) 973-6871
County of Orange, Harbors, Beaches and Parks
Volunteer Opportunities (need to be with parent if under the age of 15): removal of non-native plants, creek clean-up
City of Newport Beach: Beach Clean-Up
(949) 718-3462
Volunteer opportunities: We keep track of the beach areas that need maintenance. Call for available dates to sign-up a group of people to clean-up a specific portion of the beach.
Community ReLeaf … for gardens, trees and kids!
http: //dir . gardenweb. com/directory/releaf/
1426 East Vermont Street
Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 765-6916 (Gardens are in Long Beach)
Community ReLeaf is a an educational, non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in our cities by planting, protecting, and promoting our most vital natural resources; our tree heritage and urban garden.
Volunteer opportunities: WE NEED YOU! Come join us and let’s all dig in the dirt together. We have 4 wonderful gardens to serve you and we also are looking for folks that not only want to learn but want to help us lead the way for a greener future. We plan on having fun harvest festivals, fun plant sales, and fun whatever ideas we all come up with.
Earth Resource Foundation
www.earthresource.org
230 E. 17th Street, #208
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
(949) 645-5163
Volunteer opportunities: Participate in monthly “Keep Costa Mesa Beautiful” program, nature restoration, tree planting, and survey watershed with naturalist
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Heal the Bay
http://www.healthebay.org/
3220 Nebraska Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 453-0395, ext. 145
Heal the Bay was founded in 1985 to fight for a “swimmable and fishable Bay.” We are an environmental group working to make Santa Monica Bay and Southern California coastal waters safe and healthy again for people and marine life.
Volunteer opportunities: (go to website for applications) Beach clean-ups—if you get a group of 15 or more then we send out a speaker with supplies: bags, gloves, data cards
For high school students: can also help with stream restorations, community outreach at festivals and events, and our speaker’s bureau for teens
Oak Canyon Nature Center
6700 East Walnut Canyon Road
Anaheim, CA 92807
(714) 998-8380
Contact: Volunteer Coordinator for City of Anaheim at (714) 765-4427 Age: 12 and older
Volunteer opportunities: Canyon Keepers Program 2nd Saturday of each month—trail maintenance; help staff and work booths for various community nature events
For a more complete listing call the volunteer coordinator, and she will forward all the paperwork, schedule and necessary information to you.
Rancho Mission Viejo Land Conservancy
www.ranchomissionviejo.com
P.O. Box 1209
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92693
(949) 240-3363
Volunteer opportunities: Trail maintenance, removing non-native vegetation; assisting with mailings; fundraising; Earth Day projects
Shadetree Partnership
www.shadetreepartnership.org
P.O. Box 57000
Irvine, CA 92619
(949) 453-5670
Provides trees and volunteers to plant trees at schools and parks around the county Volunteer opportunities: Plant trees
Surfrider Foundation
P.O. Box 6010
San Clemente, CA 92674
www.Surfrider.org
Over 50 chapters dedicated to protection and enjoyment of coastal environment Volunteer opportunities: Blue Water Task Force; Beachscape Program
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Trails 4 All
www.trails4all.org
(714) 834-3136
Volunteer opportunities: trail building and maintenance (check website for schedule)
For Future Opportunities:
Ocean Institute
www.ocean-institute.org
Orange County Marine Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive Dana Point, CA 92629
(949) 496-2274
A community-based marine education facility
Contact: Linda Blanchard, Y outh V olunteer Group Coordinator
Age: 14 and older to volunteer; 16 and older to work on boats
Volunteer opportunities: (request a one year commitment)
Assist in the lab at the Touch Tank educating visitors on the weekends;
Assist the biologists on the research vessels when they go out on cruises for the community; Work in the gift shop;
Community Watch—monitors the tide pools educating visitors about the habitat;
Pilgrim—Help crew the Institute’s Tall Ship during one of its yearly cruises to San Diego, The Channel Islands, or Catalina
Do not follow where the path may lead;
go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. — Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“Rise up before the aged and show deference to the old.” (Leviticus 19:32)
Respect for Elders
Hiddur P’nai Zakken iez hbp rusv
Jewish tradition regards living a long life and dying in old age to be a blessing. It is our responsibility to respect our elders and help them to maintain the quality of life as they age.
The Breakers of Long Beach (Assisted Living facility) 210 E. Ocean Blvd.
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 432-6700
Volunteer opportunities: help read to a “low vision” group; help serve and entertain at parties
Bubbe & Zayde’s Place
2220 N. Concord
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 315-6003, ask for Andrea
Volunteer opportunities: Tues, Wed, Sat. 1-7:30pm – Entertain, art projects, discuss current events, gardening. Help collect items on our “wish list” (nail files, hair dryers, cosmetics, etc.)
Carehouse Convalescent Center
1800 Old Tustin Road
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 835-4900
Volunteer opportunities: Make bookmarks or beaded jewelry for bingo prizes; bake cookies; arrange to do a program
The EZRA Center
1770 West Cerritos Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92804
(714) 776-1103, Margolit Moskowitz, Activities Director
We provide a wide variety of activities and services to meet the needs of the mature Jewish population of Orange County.
Volunteer opportunities: Serve lunch, play cards, visit
Heritage Pointe
www.heritagepointe.com
27456 Bellogente
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
(949) 364-9685
Retirement living in the Jewish tradition
Volunteer opportunities: Participate in our “Adopt a Grandfriend,” program; assist with household tasks; play chess/scrabble; group activity (perform); help with annual walk-a-thon
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Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Long Beach
3801 E. Willow Street
Long Beach, CA 90815
(562) 427-7916
Volunteer opportunities: For assisting with our “Athletes Fete” walk-a-thon (usually in spring) contact Wendy Puzarne, ext. 234
Jewish Family Service: Project Caring Visitor
1 Federation Way, Suite 220
Irvine, CA 92603
(949) 435-3460, ext. 352 or 714-445-4950
Our purpose is to enhance the quality of family and community life through programs for people at every stage of the life cycle. Some existing teen volunteer programs we offer are: JFS Project Manna (collecting non-perishables), and JFS B’nai Mitzvah “Adopt a Retirement Home” Project.
Contact: Marcia Marcinko
Age: 11 and up
Volunteer opportunities: Attend group training, and visit a retirement home by participating in the following suggested activities: present a program; read to someone who is sight impaired; write letters for residents unable to do so; take a resident for a walk on the grounds; and help with activities at the facility.
Tustin Hacienda
240 East 3rd Street
Tustin, CA 92780
(714) 838-3847
25 resident Nursing Home facility
Volunteer Opportunities: plant flowers, bake, perform, and interact with residents
Tustin Royale Retirement House
1261 Bryan Ave.
Tustin, CA 92780
(714) 730-5009
Volunteer opportunities: Friendly visits; help serve donuts and coffee
For Future Opportunities:
Lakeview Senior Center
20 Lake Road
Irvine, CA 92604
(949) 724-6904
Contact: Ann Edwards
Age: 14 or older
Volunteer Opportunities: Once you go through our group orientation, you can assist seniors in the computer room, help serve in dining room, assist with office work, help with special events, and in summer or school breaks, use special talent to entertain; make holiday cards
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“To minister to the sick is to minister to God.” (Abraham Joshua Heschel)
Health/Helping People Who Are Ill
Bikkur Holim ohkuj ruec
Visitingthesickisamitzvahforpeopleofallages. Whenwevisitthosewhoare ill, we demonstrate that we care, helping to lift the sick person beyond the burden of illness through our love and concern.
AIDS Services Foundation
www.ocasf.org
17982 Sky Park Circle, Suite J
Irvine, CA 92614
(949) 253-1500
Provides high quality care to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of men, women, and children affected by HIV
Volunteer opportunities: Collect food for food pantry. Call for list. Assist with AIDS Walk O.C.—call (949) 955-1400 for more information.
ALS Orange County Chapter
www.alsaoc.org
2230 W. Chapman Ave, Suite 123
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 938-1080
We are dedicated to improving the quality of lives of those affected by ALS, while increasing public awareness and contributing to much needed research directed at finding a cure and/or treatment for this disease.
Volunteer opportunities: help with fundraising events
Alzheimer’s Association
www.ocwalk.com
2540 N. Santiago Blvd.
Orange, CA 92867
(800) 660-1993
Volunteer opportunities: summer interns, office help, and assistance with our “Memory Walk” October fundraiser
Art & Creativity for Healing Inc.
www.art4healing.org
26087 Getty Drive
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
(949) 367-1904
Provide art workshops and classes to help heal emotionally and physically through art. Volunteer opportunities: Help out during art workshops and classes.
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Chai Lifeline
www.chailifeline.org
9701 West Pico Blvd., Suite 120
Los Angeles, CA 90035
(310) 274-6331
Contact: Sheryl Katzovitz, Director of Volunteer Services at [email protected]
Dedicated to helping families who are coping with chronic and life-threatening pediatric illness Volunteer opportunities: Chai Lifeline volunteers support our year-round, free programs in many ways: holding school fundraisers, making gifts for hospitalized kids, collecting donations for Chanukkah, Purim, and other special occasions, etc.
Healthy Smiles
www.healthysmilesOC.org
601 N. Parkcenter Dr., Suite 110
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 480-0011
Dental clinic dedicated to improving the oral health of children in Orange County. Contact: Megan Colenbrander
Volunteer opportunities: Put together hygiene kits, watch young children while their siblings are seeing the dentist, or design your own mitzvah project
Make-A-Wish Foundation of Orange County, Inc.
Kids Giving To Kids Program
www.wishoc.org
14232 Redhill Ave.
Tustin, CA 92780
(714) 573-9474; (949) 476-9474
Make-A-Wish is a volunteer based organization working to make wishes come true for children with life-threatening illnesses. A student can organize their school to sponsor a specific “Wish Child,” and help raise funds to see that wish come true. Make-A-Wish will let you know when the wish is scheduled, and will share the fulfilled wish with your school through photographs and a letter/speaker.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Orange County Chapter
www.nmssoc.org
17500 Red Hill Ave, Suite 240
Irvine, CA 92614
(949) 752-1680, Janis Hoover, x20
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is dedicated to end the devastating effects of multiple sclerosis. Founded in 1946, the Society remains the only voluntary health organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, alleviation and cure of multiple sclerosis.
Volunteer opportunities: ongoing office assistance; help with special events and 5 fundraising walks
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Orange Grove Rehabilitation Hospital
12332 Garden Grove
Garden Grove, CA 92643
(714) 534-1041
Provide care for patients recovering from strokes, operations and accidents.
Volunteer opportunities: Donations of magazines toiletries, books, slippers, lap robes, sweaters, writing instruments and notepads. Need volunteers to visit with patients and read letters and books, do art projects, and play games.
Paws 4 Healing
www.paws4healing.org
Orange County Chapter
The use of animals…dogs, cats, dolphins, rabbits, and horses to assist all ages in emotional and psychological well-being.
Contact: Kathy Lowmiller , O. C. T eam Leader at (949) 642-7569
Age: 11 and older for humans, 1 year and older for animals
Volunteer Opportunities: Provide Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) in hospitals, abused children’s facilities, handicapped institutions, battered women shelters, nursing homes, and others. Need to own or have access to a qualified pet (dog, cat, bird, rabbit, hamster), and to complete training program.
Peter Pan Children’s Fund
http://www.peterpanchildrensfund.org/adventure.htm
The Peter Pan Children’s Fund is a charitable organization that encourages philanthropy by children and teenagers in support of Children’s Hospitals worldwide, and hospital-associated programs for children. This organization benefits 36 hospitals in 17 states (including southern California), and offers a Peter Pan Birthday Club for students to raise money to help others.
Project Chicken Soup
www.projectchickensoup.org
P.O. Box 480241
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 655-5330
Delivers fresh cooked kosher meals two Sundays per month to men, women, and children with HI V/ AIDS
Age: 12-14 need an adult present to work in the kitchen
Volunteer opportunities: Cook meals and/or deliver food and personal items
Project Cuddle, Inc.
www.projectcuddle.org
2973 Harbor Blvd., #326
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 432-9681
Serves the needs of abused, abandoned and drug exposed children
Volunteer opportunities: Students collect stuffed animals (new animals only, please) for police to give out to abused children, can help in office with paperwork
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Project Linus
www.projectlinus.com
Contact: Patty at (949) 723-4656
This project has over 270 chapters worldwide, and has delivered more than 90,000 blankets to children in hospitals and shelters.
Volunteer opportunities: Help decorate plain fabric to be added to quilts; many different sewing jobs available, and they always need help collecting supplies for blankets.
Ronald McDonald House
www.ronaldhouseoc.org
383 S. Batavia St.
Orange, CA 92867
(714) 639-3600
Home away from home while children are in the hospital.
Volunteer opportunities: Collect for wish list; can make cookies or bring a meal to serve either individually or with your family or group—call to arrange time; if under 18 years old need an adult to go with you
Shooting Stars: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
www.cff.org
2150 Towne Centre Plaza, Suite 120
Anaheim, CA 92806
(714) 938-1393 Gary Green, Associate Executive Director
Teen organization to raise funds and awareness for Cystic Fibrosis
Volunteer opportunities: Assist with teen events such as “Bowl-For-Breath” and “Great Strides” walk-a- thon
Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation
www.starlightcan.org (Chapter that serves CA) 2049 Century Park East, Suite 4320
Los Angeles, CA 90067
(310) 286-0271
Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation is dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill children and their families. Working with more than 1,000 hospitals, the Foundation provides both in-hospital and outpatient programs and services. A leader in delivering distractive entertainment, Starlight’s programs benefit over 100,000 children each month nationwide.
Volunteer opportunities: They have ongoing toy drive (new toys only, please) that gets distributed to area hospitals (no volunteers under age 18 to work directly with children)
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
www.ockomen.com
3191-A Airport Loop Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 957-9157
They raise money for breast cancer research, education, screening and treatment.
Volunteer opportunities: office assistance; Race for the Cure – can organize a “School Teen Challenge”; volunteer to help work on day of race
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Wigs for Kids
www.wigsforkids.org
21330 Center Ridge Road
Rocky River, Ohio 44116
(440) 333-4433
We collect hair to make wigs for kids that have lost their own hair due to chemotherapy or other medical conditions.
Volunteer opportunities: can organize cut-a-thons or other fundraising events—see website to get ideas and promotional materials
For Future Opportunities:
American Cancer Society – Teens Kick Ash!
(949) 986-7213
(800) ACS-2345
Age: 8th grade and up
Volunteer opportunities: help create program to educate students about smoking-related health issues
Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC)
455 Main Street
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 532-8673
Contact: Paula Smith, Director of Volunteers (M-F; 8-4:30) Age: 16 and older
Volunteer opportunities: Many opportunities to assist hospital staff; can also collect books for their CHOCReadingClubforages6monthsto18yearsold. Theycanbedonatedtotheiroutpatientclinic, where they have a reading program for low income families.
CHOC—Mission Viejo
(949) 532-8676
Contact: Pat Duley , V olunteer Coordinator Age: 15 years and older
Hoag Memorial Presbyterian Hospital
1 Hoag Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92658
(949) 675-6430
“Candy stripers” help give important service to others while learning about the hospital and medical professions
Age: 14 years and older
Volunteer opportunities: transport and discharge patients; run errands; service in hospital units; assist with special events (long waiting list—apply early to put name on list)
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Kids Konnected
27071 Cabot Road, Suite 102
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
(949) 582-5443
Provide friendship education and support to kids who have a parent with cancer. Age: 14 and older
Volunteer opportunities: helping in the office; packaging Teddy Bears for kids; helping with 5K run in April 2005
Muscular Dystrophy Association
www.mdausa.org
756 Town and Country Road
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 550-0161
MDA raises funds for “Jerry’s Kids” who face Muscular Dystrophy.
Volunteer opportunities: Ages 14 and older can assist with office help, walk-a-thon, and special events throughout the year; ages 16 and older can help with their 1-week summer camp
Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation
www.pcrf-kids.com
9272 Jeronimo, Suite 107A
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 859-6312
Age: 14 years or older
Volunteer opportunities: Holiday Card Program; office assistance; special event aid
To make a difference you can…
• Collect picture frames of various sizes. Ask fellow students to create artwork, frame the pictures, and bring them to a children’s ward at a local hospital where they can be enjoyed by many.
Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.
–James Matthew Barrie
– 17 –
“Even the broken tablets were placed in the ark.” (Based on Talmud…Menakhot 99a)
Caring for those with Special Needs
Ahavat Ha-beriot ,uhrcv ,cvt
When we help those who may be different from us, we are reminded of our responsibility to meet the needs of all those who face special challenges physically, intellectually, and emotionally.
A YSO (American Youth Soccer Organization) VIP Program
(800) ALL-AYSO www.soccer.org
We provide a quality soccer experience for children whose physical or mental disabilities make it difficult to successfully participate on mainstream teams. We use “buddies” or teen volunteers to assist and cheer these players both on and off the soccer field.
Contact the local A YSO chapter in your community to obtain specific details.
Challenger Division/Little League
National Junior Basketball “Hot Hoops” Division
Contact: Darrell Burnett, PhD., Orange County District Commissioner (949) 495-3444
Need teen volunteers to assist as “buddies” with baseball and basketball programs for kids with special needs. There are Divisions of these programs all over Orange County. Call for more information on the local program in your area.
Blind Children’s Learning Center
www.blindkids.org
18542-B Vanderlip Ave.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 573-8888
Provides education, counseling, and developmental services to children with visual impairments Volunteer opportunities: assist with our summer camp; help with child care during evening classes; help with special weekend events
Fran Joswick Therapeutic Riding Center
26284 Oso Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949) 240-8441
Program provides horseback riding for children and adults with special needs. Age: 13 and up
Volunteer opportunities: Horse care, helping with lessons
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Guide Dogs for the Blind
http://www.guidedogs.com/
P.O. Box 151200
San Rafael, CA 94915-1200
(800) 295-4050 or MaryJo Egus at (949) 589-0668
Age: 9 years and older
Volunteer opportunities: Become a “puppy raiser” and help raise future guide dogs.
Puppy raisers housetrain the pups, teach them basic obedience, and socialize them to the world. Receive puppy when its 8 weeks old, and return to organization when its between 13 to 18 months old. Breeds used as guides are Labrador retrievers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers and Labrador/GoldenRetrievercrossbreeds. Thedogsthengoontogetspecializedtrainingtohelpguide visually impaired people in their daily lives.
Special Olympics Southern California
http://www.sosc.org/
5875 Green Valley Circle, Suite 200
Culver City, CA 90230
(310) 215-8380
Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) works to provide sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for Southern California children and adults with intellectual disabilities, providing them with opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and share their gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
Volunteer opportunities: We have a variety of volunteer opportunities from coaching to helping with events and office work. Go to our website to find the area director nearest you, and to view the many ways you can help us.
For Future Opportunities:
Braille Institute of America
http://www.brailleinstitute.org/
Orange County Chapter
527 North Dale Ave.
Anaheim, CA 92801
(714) 821-5000, 2113
The Braille Institute provides an environment of hope and encouragement for people who are blind and visually impaired through integrated educational, social and recreational programs and services.
Age: 16 years or older
Volunteer opportunities: work in our youth program with school age students—especially in summertime (field trips, help with computer skills, etc.); call by spring to put name on volunteer list
Recalling our own slavery in Egypt and caring for the strangers among us are at the heart and soul of who we must be as a people, and as a community. — Jo-Ann Mort
– 19 –
”Open your hand to the poor and your neighbors in your land who are in need.” (Deuteronomy 15:11)
Caring for the Poor
Tzedakah vesm
Jewish tradition requires us to give charity and to help those less fortunate. Tzedakah literally means “righteousness” because by helping the poor, we are doing the righteous thing—providing clothing, food, shelter, and other essentials for fellow humans, while helping to maintain their dignity.
Anaheim Interfaith Shelter
(714) 774-8502
Volunteer opportunities: Collect non-perishable food, clothing, socks and shoes, diapers and baby clothes, toiletries, box fans, twin sheet sets, towels, pots and pans, dish sets, silverware, glassware, bicycles, gardening tools, and furniture. Please call to arrange best time for delivery.
Child Abuse Prevention Center, O.C.
www.brightfutures4kids.org
500 South Main St., Suite 1100
Orange, CA 92668
(714) 543-4333
Committed to breaking the generational cycle of child abuse, domestic violence and teen pregnancy in Orange County.
Volunteer opportunities: Donate toys, books, and games, and help in office
Child Abuse Services Team (C.A.S.T.)
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 940-4747
Nationally recognized leader in its child-friendly approach to conducting child abuse investigations Volunteer opportunities: Donate toys, educational games, clothing, food baskets, and gift cards
Children’s Bureau of Southern California
(714) 517-1900
Care facility for abused children from birth to 12 years old
Volunteer opportunities: Donate toys, educational games, clothing, food baskets, and gift cards.
Community Action Partnership
www.capoc.org
7180 Lampson Ave.
Garden Grove, CA 92841
(714) 899-0034, ext. 5308 Pam Hope
Since 1965 we bring together both private and public resources to improve communities by bringing hope and services to the poor. We provide a variety of emergency services and building programs that enable the poor to meet basic needs and develop the knowledge and skills to move out of poverty. Volunteer opportunities: From packing up donated computers, to creating toiletry kits or school supplies—we can use your help, and enjoy working with students and groups of all ages.
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Families Forward
www.families-forward.org
9221 Irvine Blvd.
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 552-2727
Provides transitional housing and emergency support services for families and individuals Volunteer opportunities: Food drives, holiday baskets (14 or older to work in pantry)
Friends in Service to Humanity (FISH)
P.O. Box 15464
Newport Beach, CA 92659
(949) 645-8050 or (949) 642-6060
We provide a Mobile Meals program & ongoing emergency assistance to those in need. Volunteer opportunities: We seek volunteer assistance in a variety of areas.
Great American Bake Sale
http://www.greatamericanbakesale.org/site/PageServer
We are groundbreaking program to end child hunger in America. All Americans — individuals, temple groups, etc. — are encouraged to participate by hosting a bake sale in their communities. All funds raised will be donated to Share Our Strength, which will then make grants to nonprofits fighting childhood hunger in the United States.
Homeless Intervention/ Shelter House
P.O. Box 1293
Placentia, CA 92871
(714) 993-5774
A transitional living center for the homeless
Volunteer opportunities: Baby-sit on parent class night; help with family parties
Meir Panim Soup Kitchens in Israel
http://www.meirpanim.org/
Meir Panim which means “A Friendly Face” was established to provide food to the large number of Israeli citizen’s who live below the poverty line. They currently feed 251,000 monthly, including 140,000 children through their “Meals For Children” program. Go to their website to see how you can help.
National Hunger Awareness Day
http://www.hungerday.org/content/index.php
We are a nonprofit grassroots movement to raise awareness about the solvable problem of hunger in America.
Olive Crest Homes and Services for Abused Children
www.Olivecrest.org
2130 East Fourth St., Suite 200
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 543-5437
Volunteer opportunities: Donate clothing, shoes, backpacks, music for teens, books either new or gently used; assist at special fundraiser events such as Bowl-a-thon, etc.
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Orange Coast Interfaith Shelter
www.ocinterfaithshelter.org
1963 Wallace Ave.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(949) 631-7213
A family shelter committed to helping homeless families become self-supporting.
Volunteer opportunities: Work in children’s program; clothing drives; help put on parties (if under age 14 need a parent to go with you)
Orange County Food Bank
http://www.orangecountyfoodbank.com/
http://www.orangecountyfoodbank.com/about.html
12640 Knott St.
Garden Grove, CA 92643
(714) 897-6670 or 714-899-0034, ext. 5308
We are a part of the Community Action Partnership of O.C., and have been designated as the county’s “official anti-poverty agency.” We are a central warehouse serving over 325 food distribution organizations, and provide food and personal care items to low-income residents.
Volunteer opportunities: We are very receptive to all age groups, and you can help on your own or organize a group of volunteers to help sort and pack food at our well-organized warehouse.
Orange County Harvest/ Second Harvest Food Bank
http://www.feedoc.org/
426A West Almond
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 771-1343
We are a food bank to over 330 non-profit agencies that feed the needy, and also have Gleaning projects to provide food for Orange County’s hungry.
Volunteer opportunities: Organize a food drive; join with the groups of teens and families that pick the fields for produce for the O.C. Food Bank; pack and sort food.
Orangewood Children’s Home
401 City Drive
Orange, CA 92868
(714) 935-7584
We provide emergency shelter care and protective custody for abused children. We are operated by the County of Orange for children from birth to18 years old.
Volunteer Opportunities: Collect clothes, toys, new shoes, DVD’s, toiletries; gift cards, make gift baskets books, and school supplies (need to be 18 or older to work with children directly)
Project H.O.P.E. School
146 N. Grand St.
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 744-2478
School for children that are homeless
Volunteer Opportunities: tutoring; help with special events,; collect toiletry and school supplies to donate
– 22 –
Share Our Selves
1550 Superior Ave.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
(949) 642-3451
We support the needs of the community with food, a free clinic, and financial support. Volunteer opportunities: Food drives, special projects
Shoes That Fit
http://www.shoesthatfit.org/
1420 North Claremont Blvd., Suite 107B
Claremont, CA 91711
(909) 482-0050 Lee Kane
We provide correctly fitted shoes and clothes for needy children.
Volunteer opportunities: We will match a volunteer or a sponsoring group with the closest elementary school that has a need. You then request a list of students and their shoe sizes, so items can be purchased; can organize a shoe drive or “sock hop” by having people bring new shoes for elementary age school students (or they can make a donation to support your efforts).
Southwest Community Center
1601 W. 2nd St.
Santa Ana, CA 92703
(714) 547-4073
Provides emergency services to the needy including: food, clothes, and household items Contact: Thelma
Volunteer opportunities: Bag and pass out groceries, sort clothes
St. Jude’s Ranch for Children
http://www.stjudesranch.org/
100 St. Jude Street
Boulder City, Nevada 89005
(702) 293-3131
We are a non-profit home for abused, abandoned, and neglected children of all races and faiths. Volunteer opportunities: Collect and mail in your Campbell’s Soup Labels. Past contributions of labels have resulted in over 5 new Dodge Caravan Mini-vans for St. Jude’s Ranch campuses.
We Care
10941 Reagan Street
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
(562) 598-9790
Provides food for low-income individuals in the Los Alamitos and Cypress area
Volunteer Opportunities: Donations of food and supermarket gift certificates; food sorting and helping to make food baskets for various holidays
Womenshelter of Long Beach
2429 Pacific Ave.
Long Beach, CA 90806
(562) 988-1187
Volunteer Opportunities: collect clothes, cell phones, household items
“If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.”
– 23 –
–Mother Teresa
“You should love your neighbor as yourself.” (Leviticus 19:18)
Loving Your Neighbor
V’ahavta L’rayakha K’amokha lunf lgrk ,cvtu
According to Rabbi Akiva, this is the most important principle in the Torah becauseitisthesourceofsomanyothers. Theworldbecomesabetterplace when we treat others as we would like to be treated.
American Jewish World Service
www.ajws.org
989 Ave. of the Americas
New York, NY 10018
(800) 889-7146
We are an independent non-profit organization founded in 1985 to help alleviate poverty, hunger and disease among the people of the world regardless of race, religion or nationality.
Volunteer opportunities: Help raise money for this humanitarian agency.
American Red Cross
http://www.redcross.org/
601 N. Golden Circle Drive P.O. Box 11364
Santa Ana, CA 92711 (714) 835-5381
Provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people to prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.
Volunteer opportunities: Help coordinate a blood drive; make school chests filled with school supplies; create friendship boxes filled with items for emergency—call for more information
American Red Magen David for Israel (ARMDI)
www.armdi.org
ARMDI Western Region
6345 Balboa Blvd. Suite 112
Encino, CA 91316
(818) 776-9002
ARMDI, organized in 1940, is the exclusive fundraising organization in the United States for Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s equivalent to a Red Cross Society. ARMDI supports the MDA National Emergency Medical, Ambulance, Blood and Disaster Services which benefit Israel’s entire population. Volunteer opportunities: help raise money to support their life-saving work in Israel
– 24 –
County of Orange
http://www.oc.ca.gov/volunteers/volunteers_page2.html
10 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, CA 92701
(714) 834-7440
V olunteer opportunities: V olunteer opportunities available for youth, adults, families and groups.
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) www.casaoc.org
1615 E. 17th St., Suite 100
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 619-5155
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Orange County is a non-profit organization that serves children who, for their own protection, have been removed from their homes and placed in foster care. Adult volunteers help guide children through the court system and act as a role model.
Volunteer opportunities: Help with their holiday party
Fly-A-Cake
http://www.flyacake.com/
Fly-A-Cake is a non profit organization that gives terror victims baskets of cookies, cakes, and sweets to bring a smile to their faces. You also get to write a personalized letter to the person you chose to give a “care basket” to. You send a donation to Fly-A-Cake, and they will put a basket together for you. By sending a care package of strictly kosher food, you can reach out and express your concern for these people through a personal note attached to each package.
Human Options
www.humanoptions.org
P.O. Box 53745
Irvine, CA 92619
(949) 737-5242 ext. #223
Human Options is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing domestic violence by protecting victims in a safe, non-judgmental environment and providing intervention and education programs. Volunteer opportunities: Collect donations for residents or for our Thrift Store (all ages); can be trained to read to kids (13 and older); tutoring opportunities available from 2:30 – 4:30pm M-Th (15 and older)
Jewish Welfare Board and Jewish Chaplains Council
http://www.jcca.org/JWB/index.html
JWB Jewish Chaplains Council is the only U.S. government-accredited agency serving the religious, social and morale needs of Jewish military personnel, their families, and patients in VA hospitals. Contributions help them send holiday packages, prayer books and other vital support to our troops at home and stationed overseas.
– 25 –
Jewish World Watch
www.jewishworldwatch.org
16944 Ventura Blvd., Suite 1
Encino, CA 91316
(818) 501-1836
Jewish World Watch works to mobilize synagogues, schools, and the community to combat genocide and other egregious violations of human rights around the world through education, advocacy, and refugee relief.
Volunteer opportunities: We work with youth, adults, families, and groups to raise awareness or money for our international efforts, or to help in our offices.
Random Acts of Kindness
http://www.actsofkindness.org/
The Random Acts of KindnessTM Foundation inspires people to practice kindness and to “pass it on” to others. We provide free educational and community ideas, guidance, and other resources to kindness participants through our website.
The Blue Card
bluecard@erols. com
1 West 34th St., #404
New York, NY 10001
(212) 724-0580
Contact: Florence Smeraldi
For the thousands of Shoah survivors who are living in poverty, The Blue Card is an irreplaceable resource. Their funds are used on a daily basis to provide simple and essential relief for this very fragile segment of our Jewish population. It is disturbing that those who lived through the horrors of the holocaust are now, in their later years, plagued by poverty and insecurity.
Volunteer opportunities: Help raise money for these survivors
The National Conference for Community and Justice
http://www.nccj.org/
Orange County Chapter
3961 MacArthur Blvd., Suite 101
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(714) 668-9191 or (949) 252-5388
NCCJ is a human relations organization dedicated to fighting bias, bigotry, and racism in America. We promote understanding and respect among all races, religions and cultures through advocacy, conflict resolution, education, and community programs. Sponsors Religious Diversity Fair, Monthly Interfaith Youth Dialogue, and Ethnic Celebrations in Orange County; Knowledge and Social Responsibility
Age: 12 and older
Volunteer opportunities: Assist with mailings, press releases, and newsletters; media relations; outreach projects with schools; telephone work; data input
– 26 –
Operation Clean Slate
www.operationcleanslate.com
1578 Minorca
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 435-0745
A Costa Mesa based organization that focuses on graffiti prevention Volunteer opportunities: paint out graffiti
Social Action.com
http://www.socialaction.com/index.phtml
An online Jewish magazine dedicated to pursuing justice, building community, and repairing the world
Union for Reform Judaism Social Action Projects
http: //urj. org/csa/projects/
Our link lists special social action projects and ways you can assist us in accomplishing our goals to help those in need.
Volunteer Center of Orange County
www.volunteercenter.org
1901 E. Fourth St., Suite 100
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 953-5757
Our mission is to connect people and resources for a better Orange County!
Volunteer opportunities: We have an extensive list of volunteer opportunities and also have a website that can” match” volunteers to organizations. Can also take part in our “Volunteer Connection Days” event.. Call or go online for current information.
Volunteer Match
www. Volunteermatch.com
Volunteer Match is a nonprofit organization with a mission to help everyone find a great place to volunteer. Interested volunteers can enter their ZIP code on the Volunteer Match home page to quickly find local volunteer opportunities posted by nonprofit organizations throughout the United States.
Working Wardrobes
www.workingwardrobes.org
11614 Martens River Circle
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
(714) 210-2460, Susan Marty, Mgr of administration
We offer low-income women makeovers, training for job interviews, and clothing to help them re-enter the working environment.
Volunteer opportunities: Donation sorting; help with 4 special “Days of Self-Esteem” events (where we pre-train those in need with job skill workshops, and then receive makeover, clothing, and resume on day of event) for Men, women, teens; and “Cinderella’s for Life” event (where girls from local shelters are invited to attend workshops on etiquette, goal-setting, etc. and then receive makeover and prom dress; we are willing to see what your special talents are and create individual projects based on your skills and interests
– 27 –
For Future Opportunities:
The Children’s Museum
La Habra
(562) 905-9636
Age: 14 and older
Volunteer opportunities: Assist with various programs and events.
Habitat for Humanity
www.habitatoc.org
2165 S. Grand Ave.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
(714) 434-6200, x233
Age: 14 and older for painting; 16 and older for construction
Volunteer opportunities: Assist with construction; fundraising, and landscaping. All ages can make key chains that will be given to new homeowners, and make lunches to feed the volunteers at the building site. Collect kitchen supplies to provide to new homeowners.
What you can do with used cell phones…
Many organizations are asking for donations of used cell phones and chargers:
- The phone companies re-program them to the”911″ number,
- They are donated to victims of domestic violence, a real life-saver. Check with your local domestic violence organizations, cell phone company, or police department, to find out who is organizing the pr ogr am in your community . Y ou can also go to www . donateaphone. com to find out ho w to donate a phone.
- 2 students created “Cell Phones for Soldiers” when they learned that soldiers overseas had huge cell phone bills. Go to http://www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com/pages/1/index.htm to learn more. To make a difference…
never be stingy with the free things in life… hugs, compliments smiles, laughter, and hope!
– 28 –
B’nai Mitzvah Tzedakah Ideas
B’nai Mitzvah Invitation Ideas:
- Include a special note asking each guest to bring a specific item to be donated such as a children’s book, food item, hotel toiletries, etc
- Instead of a traditional invitation, the Jewish National Fund will print invitations onto their tree certificates. If you order over 100; you will not only receive a discount, but you will have planted a “forest” of trees in Israel in honor of your B’nai Mitzvah! Call JNF at 1-800-700-1312 or locally at (714) 957-4540. Jewish National Fund,2900 Bristol, Suite C-104, Costa Mesa CA 92626 http://www.jnf.org/site/PageServer Donate a percentage of your gift money to charity, or make a donation in honor of each guest and MAZON will provide stylish personalized gift cards to be placed at the tables instead of party favors. Give 3% of the cost of your B’nai Mitzvah to:
MAZON, A Jewish Response to Hunger
1990 South Bundy Drive, Suite 260; Los Angeles, CA 90025; (310) 442-0020; http://www.mazon.org/
Since 1985, MAZON has provided food, help and hope to hungry people of all faiths and backgrounds. It has done so through donations from the Jewish community, which is allocated to the most effective hunger relief organizations in the United States, Israel and in poor countries worldwide.Ritual Items:Order beautifully crocheted Yarmulkes and help support Mayan women from the villages of Guatemala. MayaWorks, the organization that sells them, is devoted to reducing poverty and illiteracy by creating markets forthesehand-wovenproducts. Theincometheyreceivefromthesesalessometimesmakesthedifference between 2 or 3 meals a day. Please make sure to mention you heard about them through Ziv Tzedakah Fund/Danny Siegel (see next page). Great for bulk orders for B’nai Mitzvahs, Confirmation classes, and synagogue gift shops. Contact: Kathleen Morkert, [email protected], 773-506-4905, www.mayaworks.orgFabulous Tallis Bags Made by Ethiopian Jews: Contact the North American Conference on Ethiopian Jewry, 212- 233-5200, [email protected], www.NACOEJ.orgB’nai Mitzvah Decoration Ideas:
• •
•
Make a spectacular food basket/book basket, etc. instead of flowers to be used on bimah, and then donate.
Instead of traditional centerpieces, make: pails filled with toys; gym bags filled with sporting goods; tote bags filled with books; and attach note to these creative containers stating which charity will be receiving them.
Instead of candles for a “Candle-lighting Ceremony”, honor your family and friends by having gift containers, pretty wrapped boxes, etc. that will go to various charities. You can even coordinate organizations that match the personality of those you are honoring!
Send leftover B’nai Mitzvah food to a shelter.
Many families create a Bar/Bat Mitzvah service booklet to help explain the service to their guests. One great addition to your booklet is to include a “13 Tzedakah Organizations” page listing your family’s favorite organizations for donating time and money. This is yet another way to share that helping others is a part of being Jewish.
Continue your Mitzvah project after your B’nai Mitzvah.
– 29 –
Additional mitzvah ideas can be found on the Ziv website: Ziv Tzedakah Fund, Inc.
www.ziv.org home page
http://www.ziv.org/direct_israel2.html Helping those in need in Israel http://www.ziv.org/bar_bat_mitzvah.html Bar/Bat Mitzvah Guide http://www.ziv.org/teach-6major.htm Seven Major Mitzvah Projects http://www.ziv.org/teachers.html 116 Practical Mitzvah Suggestions
384 Wyoming Ave.
Millburn, NJ 07041
(973) 763-9396—Ask for Naomi Eisenberger
Danny Siegel over 20 years ago founded this non-profit organization to help fund efficient grass-roots community projects worldwide. He seeks out ‘Mitzvah Heroes,” and then gives lectures to a variety of groups to get involved, to fix the world, and to make a difference.
Volunteer opportunities: Raise funds for this organization; call to receive a copy of their current annual report and help one of their “Mitzvah Heroes” directly.
Update/New Ideas
TheBureauneedsyourhelp! Wewantthisresourceguidetobenefitasmany teens and organizations as possible. Help us keep this guide current by sharing your input. Send your information to:
Bureau of Jewish Education
www.bjeoc.org
1 Federation Way, Suite 205 Irvine, CA 92603 949-435-3450
E-mail: [email protected]
Our mission is to ensure that everyone in our community can find a path to engaging and meaningful Jewish learning.
1. Corrections/additions to current listings:
2. Organizations to add to our directory: Please include name of organization, address,
and phone number.
“Few will have the greatness to bend history itself,
but each one of us can work to change a small portion of events,
and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation.”
–Robert Kennedy