Repairing the World: Rain or Shine

Today, the Amelim through Tzophim participated in two tikkun olam (repairing the world) projects. Tikkun olam is a value that is central to Judaism and Habonim Dror.

Today, the Amelim and Chotrim went to volunteer with an organization called Repair the World. There, they worked with Cradles to Crayons and made encouraging cards for children going to school this year. The cards will be accompanied by packages of school supplies that Galil donated. Without this project, these students might not have school supplies. While there, the younger chanichim talked about the Philadelphia school system and its shortage of resources. They also learned about an organization called Playworks, which helps understaffed schools provide recess programming for their students.

Amelim and Chotrim making cards

The Tzophim and Sayarim went to Urban Tree Connection today. They worked at a community garden in Philadelphia where they weeded, composted, and spread wood chips throughout the garden. While there, they talked about the importance of greenery in an urban environment, as well as the necessity for affordable produce in low-income areas. 

Tzophim and Sayarim spreading wood chips 

Meanwhile, at machaneh, the Bonim had "Yom Bonim" (a themed day exclusively for the Bonim). The theme of their day was superheroes, with the underlying idea of fighting personal injustices. They have all made shirts to resemble the heroes they wanted to embody. Throughout the day they did superhero training and exercises. When asked the Bonim about their day, they said it was "super."

Bonim as superheroes