Social Action TIKVAH Team
TIKVAH: "Touching Individuals with Kindness Vision and Hope"
(Please scroll down this page to see the kinds of projects we care about!)
TIKVAH: "Touching Individuals with Kindness Vision and Hope"
(Please scroll down this page to see the kinds of projects we care about!)
Greetings to everyone! I have taken on the mission of collating our social action activities and trying to provide a range of community support projects that we can participate in. If you have a favorite social action project that you would like to bring to our attention, please contact me, Ronny Kaplan at: ronnykaplan@snet.net
As you can see below, there are ways to participate in getting out the vote, contributing to Food Banks, shopping for seniors, donating blood, combating racism, donating toiletries to those in need, and supporting Building One Community.
Please also be sure to reach out to us if you find you are in need of help during this time. We are here for you!
Ronny Kaplan - Social Action Team Chair
As you can see below, there are ways to participate in getting out the vote, contributing to Food Banks, shopping for seniors, donating blood, combating racism, donating toiletries to those in need, and supporting Building One Community.
Please also be sure to reach out to us if you find you are in need of help during this time. We are here for you!
Ronny Kaplan - Social Action Team Chair
Shir Ami Social Action projects include:
Nancy Heller and Roger and Mark Lob
Nancy Heller and her husband Roger Lob have lived in Connecticut for nearly three decades, with their two children, Karen, and Mark. The family has volunteered for the JFS of Greenwich Supermarketing for Seniors (SFS) program for nearly four years. The local seniors they have helped have become a part of their extended family.
Nancy, who has a passion for non-profit work, was thrilled to learn about SFS in 2020. Because of the pandemic, the family was interested in finding a way to get out and continue giving back to the community during that isolating time. Nancy and Roger thought this opportunity would be a good fit for their son Mark, who is on the autism spectrum.
The first SFS delivery was to Rita, a senior in Greenwich who resides at an assisted living facility. Masks were worn, but as protocols became less restrictive, the visits with Rita became more friendly and familiar. The shopping soon became a family affair with Nancy and Roger assisting Mark with the shopping and delivery. Over time, Mark, who loves to bake, added a personal touch with the addition of his homemade baked goods.
The family developed a special relationship with Rita, who was soon invited to their home for the holidays. One Thanksgiving, they discovered that Rita would not be able to make it up the steps of their home in her electric wheelchair. They would not let this deter them from having Rita spend the holiday with them! Nancy, Roger, and Mark, along with friends and family, created a ramp to get Rita into their home on Thanksgiving Day. Rita was moved beyond words by their efforts, care, and concern, but Nancy said that it was actually her family who got the greatest joy. “We felt like we were doing something good. It only takes a little effort to make a positive impact in someone’s day.”.
Nancy added, “This program brings a new perspective into your life. We highly recommend it. The needs of the community continue to grow every day and I am happy to see that JFS of Greenwich is able to address those needs through the variety of programs they offer. If you are looking to create beautiful moments of connection, make someone’s day, and walk away with a sense of personal fulfillment, Supermarketing for Seniors is for you!”
If you would like to volunteer for Supermarketing for Seniors contact Melissa Basile-Reolon at mbasilereolon@jfsgreenwich.org or call 203-622-1881 ext. 104
Nancy Heller and her husband Roger Lob have lived in Connecticut for nearly three decades, with their two children, Karen, and Mark. The family has volunteered for the JFS of Greenwich Supermarketing for Seniors (SFS) program for nearly four years. The local seniors they have helped have become a part of their extended family.
Nancy, who has a passion for non-profit work, was thrilled to learn about SFS in 2020. Because of the pandemic, the family was interested in finding a way to get out and continue giving back to the community during that isolating time. Nancy and Roger thought this opportunity would be a good fit for their son Mark, who is on the autism spectrum.
The first SFS delivery was to Rita, a senior in Greenwich who resides at an assisted living facility. Masks were worn, but as protocols became less restrictive, the visits with Rita became more friendly and familiar. The shopping soon became a family affair with Nancy and Roger assisting Mark with the shopping and delivery. Over time, Mark, who loves to bake, added a personal touch with the addition of his homemade baked goods.
The family developed a special relationship with Rita, who was soon invited to their home for the holidays. One Thanksgiving, they discovered that Rita would not be able to make it up the steps of their home in her electric wheelchair. They would not let this deter them from having Rita spend the holiday with them! Nancy, Roger, and Mark, along with friends and family, created a ramp to get Rita into their home on Thanksgiving Day. Rita was moved beyond words by their efforts, care, and concern, but Nancy said that it was actually her family who got the greatest joy. “We felt like we were doing something good. It only takes a little effort to make a positive impact in someone’s day.”.
Nancy added, “This program brings a new perspective into your life. We highly recommend it. The needs of the community continue to grow every day and I am happy to see that JFS of Greenwich is able to address those needs through the variety of programs they offer. If you are looking to create beautiful moments of connection, make someone’s day, and walk away with a sense of personal fulfillment, Supermarketing for Seniors is for you!”
If you would like to volunteer for Supermarketing for Seniors contact Melissa Basile-Reolon at mbasilereolon@jfsgreenwich.org or call 203-622-1881 ext. 104
ANOTHER SCHOOL SHOOTING!
This time in Nashville – 6 dead, three 9 years old kids and three adults.
Since 2009 there have been 306 mass shootings in the US.
What can we do about these massacres, which seem to happen weekly?
We can support organizations that organize, advocate and do research regarding gun safety. Everytown for Gun Safety seeks to improve our understanding of the causes of gun violence and the means to reduce it – by conducting groundbreaking research, developing evidence-based policies, and communicating this knowledge in the courts and the court of public opinion. There are several other non-profit organizations working to stop gun violence through advocacy, legal actions against gun manufacturers, educating kids to recognize potential shooters, and pressuring state and federal legislators to increase gun safety laws.
We are fortunate in Connecticut to have a Congressional delegation that is so supportive of gun safety. Senator Chris Murphy has made this his passion – and recently spearheaded passage of the most important gun safety legislation in many years – but there is so much more to do.
This time in Nashville – 6 dead, three 9 years old kids and three adults.
Since 2009 there have been 306 mass shootings in the US.
What can we do about these massacres, which seem to happen weekly?
We can support organizations that organize, advocate and do research regarding gun safety. Everytown for Gun Safety seeks to improve our understanding of the causes of gun violence and the means to reduce it – by conducting groundbreaking research, developing evidence-based policies, and communicating this knowledge in the courts and the court of public opinion. There are several other non-profit organizations working to stop gun violence through advocacy, legal actions against gun manufacturers, educating kids to recognize potential shooters, and pressuring state and federal legislators to increase gun safety laws.
We are fortunate in Connecticut to have a Congressional delegation that is so supportive of gun safety. Senator Chris Murphy has made this his passion – and recently spearheaded passage of the most important gun safety legislation in many years – but there is so much more to do.
Helping Others In Need
Help for Jews In Maui
We have all heard the terrible news about the wildfires destroying parts of Maui, Hawaii. It has come to our attention that the Jewish Congregation of Maui has been touched by the awful fires that have destroyed so much of Maui, including the town of Lahaina. The Congregation and its grounds are safe, however, the death toll on the island is rising. As a caring Jewish Community, Shir Ami would like to help. We have decided to contribute $500 to the Jewish Congregation of Maui. Click here if you would like more information regarding the Congregation and their efforts to aid those affected by the wildfires.
We have all heard the terrible news about the wildfires destroying parts of Maui, Hawaii. It has come to our attention that the Jewish Congregation of Maui has been touched by the awful fires that have destroyed so much of Maui, including the town of Lahaina. The Congregation and its grounds are safe, however, the death toll on the island is rising. As a caring Jewish Community, Shir Ami would like to help. We have decided to contribute $500 to the Jewish Congregation of Maui. Click here if you would like more information regarding the Congregation and their efforts to aid those affected by the wildfires.
Domus’ mission is to create community by building loving relationships with young
people facing adversity, empowering them to pursue their path to self-sufficiency. The
goal is: no child shall be denied hope, love, or a fair chance in life. Domus works with kids having difficulty behaviorally, financially, academically, physically and uses a variety of strategies to help them overcome these obstacles and become productive and engaged in school, at home, at jobs, at life. We will learn about
the programs and methods used to overcome the adverse circumstances faced by Domus clients.
More than 1 out of 5 Connecticut high school students are disengaged and disconnected. Each month, hundreds of young people return to Connecticut communities from jails and prisons. We want them to reach their potential and become
contributing members of their community. 80% of students at Stamford High, who are enrolled in Domus Knights Program, were promoted to the next grade.
Through our Equity Institute @ Domus, we help others see and understand the roots of oppression and the dynamics of race and how they play out in our homes, workplaces, and communities. Domus seeks a fair and just society, where there are no
barriers to participation based on race or ethnicity—where everyone has the freedom and capability to fully participate in our economy and our civic society.
https://www.domuskids.org/what-we-do
(203)-324-4277
people facing adversity, empowering them to pursue their path to self-sufficiency. The
goal is: no child shall be denied hope, love, or a fair chance in life. Domus works with kids having difficulty behaviorally, financially, academically, physically and uses a variety of strategies to help them overcome these obstacles and become productive and engaged in school, at home, at jobs, at life. We will learn about
the programs and methods used to overcome the adverse circumstances faced by Domus clients.
More than 1 out of 5 Connecticut high school students are disengaged and disconnected. Each month, hundreds of young people return to Connecticut communities from jails and prisons. We want them to reach their potential and become
contributing members of their community. 80% of students at Stamford High, who are enrolled in Domus Knights Program, were promoted to the next grade.
Through our Equity Institute @ Domus, we help others see and understand the roots of oppression and the dynamics of race and how they play out in our homes, workplaces, and communities. Domus seeks a fair and just society, where there are no
barriers to participation based on race or ethnicity—where everyone has the freedom and capability to fully participate in our economy and our civic society.
https://www.domuskids.org/what-we-do
(203)-324-4277
Welcoming refugees into our community.
At the Refugee Shabbat, we also talked about ways in which volunteers could provide hands-on help with:
Contact Barbara Salop or Ronny Kaplan if you are interested in any of these volunteer opportunities in Greenwich or Stamford.
At our March 4 Havdalah and Purim gathering, Shir Ami members put their hearts and hands together to fulfill commandments central to our observance of Purim: Matanot L’evyonim (giving money to the poor) and Mishloach Manot (giving gifts to our neighbors). A dedicated group of our members raised $1500 to fill JFS bags of personal care products and snacks in anticipation of the emergent arrival the of migrants into our community. This happens without warning, so the items in these bags are used to welcome, refresh and nourish these souls after their traumatic journey here. As Marie Orsini-Rosen put it, "Our small but mighty congregation punches above its weight,” as we provisioned and assembled100 welcome bags for JFS to have on hand as the need appears without much notice. Thanks to all for the generosity and kinship shown by Shir Ami to our newest neighbors.
At the Refugee Shabbat, we also talked about ways in which volunteers could provide hands-on help with:
- Initial apartment set-up and provisioning;
- Ongoing transportation to appointments;
- English practice, tutoring;
- Job search and financial skills.
Contact Barbara Salop or Ronny Kaplan if you are interested in any of these volunteer opportunities in Greenwich or Stamford.
At our March 4 Havdalah and Purim gathering, Shir Ami members put their hearts and hands together to fulfill commandments central to our observance of Purim: Matanot L’evyonim (giving money to the poor) and Mishloach Manot (giving gifts to our neighbors). A dedicated group of our members raised $1500 to fill JFS bags of personal care products and snacks in anticipation of the emergent arrival the of migrants into our community. This happens without warning, so the items in these bags are used to welcome, refresh and nourish these souls after their traumatic journey here. As Marie Orsini-Rosen put it, "Our small but mighty congregation punches above its weight,” as we provisioned and assembled100 welcome bags for JFS to have on hand as the need appears without much notice. Thanks to all for the generosity and kinship shown by Shir Ami to our newest neighbors.
Help UJA-JCC Greenwich Support Earthquake Survivors in Turkey and Syria
We are heartbroken by the news of devastating earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria. The death toll is at 35,000 and still rising.
While an overwhelming number of homes and businesses have been destroyed, rescuers are racing to provide humanitarian aid to survivors who have lost everything.
UJA-JCC along with Federations across the country, are supplying thousands of tents, heaters, thermal clothing, ready to eat meals, and first-aid kits.
But they need your help to do more to save lives!
Click here to donate.
We are heartbroken by the news of devastating earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria. The death toll is at 35,000 and still rising.
While an overwhelming number of homes and businesses have been destroyed, rescuers are racing to provide humanitarian aid to survivors who have lost everything.
UJA-JCC along with Federations across the country, are supplying thousands of tents, heaters, thermal clothing, ready to eat meals, and first-aid kits.
But they need your help to do more to save lives!
Click here to donate.
This project supplies toiletries to people in need, as these essential items are not covered by grants or found in food pantries.
Dignity Grows is Shir Ami's Chanukah Social Action project. Donations can be made when registering for Chanukah Live! Click here for the link.
Purchases of menstrual products can be made (tampons & Pads) for Dignity Grows on Amazon, and sent directly to the UJA-JCC Greenwich office at 1 Holly Hill Lane, Greenwich CT 06830. Donations of $18 for a month’s supplies can still be made directly to UJA-JCC Greenwich, as well.
UJA-JCC Greenwich is the first chapter in this national initiative, and has distributed 265 bags of products in 2020!
Please Donate at UJA JCC
Shir Ami will commit to purchasing several $18 bags per quarter for the coming year. Email: Marjorieblack85@gmail.com
for more information.
Dignity Grows is Shir Ami's Chanukah Social Action project. Donations can be made when registering for Chanukah Live! Click here for the link.
Purchases of menstrual products can be made (tampons & Pads) for Dignity Grows on Amazon, and sent directly to the UJA-JCC Greenwich office at 1 Holly Hill Lane, Greenwich CT 06830. Donations of $18 for a month’s supplies can still be made directly to UJA-JCC Greenwich, as well.
UJA-JCC Greenwich is the first chapter in this national initiative, and has distributed 265 bags of products in 2020!
Please Donate at UJA JCC
Shir Ami will commit to purchasing several $18 bags per quarter for the coming year. Email: Marjorieblack85@gmail.com
for more information.
Crisis in Ukraine
We are all horrified at what is happening in Ukraine to all the people, and particularly to the Jewish population, some of whom have gone through this type of horror before. Should you wish to send assistance to the Jews of Ukraine – here are some suggestions:
Jewish Federations of North America are helping people make Aliyah to Israel, and supporting temporary housing, satellite phones, assisting internally displaced people, and providing critical welfare services. To contribute to Jewish Federations, go to UJF of Greater Stamford or UJA of Greenwich. This agency has been helping in Ukraine for decades, formerly known as United Jewish Appeal. The donation you make is credited to your local federation, but the entire donation goes to the central UJFNA and is sent to Ukraine to their local affiliates (JDC, JAFI, etc.) who have organizations on the ground.
Joint Distribution Committee is on the ground in Ukraine delivering urgent lifesaving are to Jewish seniors and families: food packages, transport, accommodations for those fleeing, medicine, etc. Donate.JDC.org to contribute to JDC
Jewish Agency for Israel - North America - JAFINA is assisting Jews looking to make Aliyah, and supporting the local Jewish Ukrainian community. This agency is focused on helping Israel, but is on the ground in Ukraine, mainly assisting Jews who would like to go to Israel.
World Central Kitchen, uses the power of food to nourish communities and strengthen economies in times of crisis and beyond. They are providing food to people in Ukraine and encouraging people to make donations directly to them. To donate, go to Donate.wck.org. Shir Ami has chosen WCK as our Passover Tikvah Project this year.
Stamford Interfaith Refugee Settlement (SIRS) is reaching out for donations to help its group of volunteers furnish an apartment for the next refugee family we welcome some time this year.
SIRS also continues to look for additional volunteers to help welcome and support the family as they work toward self-sufficiency to become productive members of our community.
Visit the SIRS website, sirsct.org, for more information and to contact them, sirsct.org/contact.
SIRS also continues to look for additional volunteers to help welcome and support the family as they work toward self-sufficiency to become productive members of our community.
Visit the SIRS website, sirsct.org, for more information and to contact them, sirsct.org/contact.
Abilis is a local organization that supports individuals with special needs from birth to death. Some of our members work there and some receive services there. For the past decade we have done a December Holiday Gift drive to provide presents for individuals in group homes that don't have family members to buy them gifts. They have appreciated our gifts very much.
To learn more about Abilis and additional ways you can help this community contact susannisin@gmail.com |
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B1C has multiple programs that help immigrants as they find their way in this country and in our state. This organization can benefit from money and from volunteer time. Several of our members are currently tutoring and finding it very rewarding!
Our in person project with B1C was sidelined due to COVID but we encourage people to learn more about this organization and ways you can help them. https://building1community.org/
To contribute online: https://building1community.org/donate/
Our in person project with B1C was sidelined due to COVID but we encourage people to learn more about this organization and ways you can help them. https://building1community.org/
To contribute online: https://building1community.org/donate/
Combating Racism
Here's a of list 75 Things White People Can Do to Combat Racism:
https://medium.com/equality-includes-you/what-white-people-can-do-for-racial-justice-f2d18b0e0234
Here's a of list 75 Things White People Can Do to Combat Racism:
https://medium.com/equality-includes-you/what-white-people-can-do-for-racial-justice-f2d18b0e0234
Providing Food For Those In Need
Watch this inspiring video about the Neighbor to Neighbor Food Bank and the incredible work they have been doing in Greenwich to get food to those in need during COVID.
view video
view video
Shopping for Seniors at the UJA-JCC in Greenwich is one of the projects that our Member Barbara Salop is passionate about because this service makes a huge difference in the ability for their clients to continue to live independently. More information is available on our Social Action page and on their website.
https://jfsgreenwich.org/supermarketing-for-seniors/
JFS Weekly Farmer's Market - Thank You, Mike's Organics!
As a JFS Board Member, Barbara Salop (and Shir Ami Member) is also proud of the JFS Farmer's Market Stand, Powered by Mike's Organics which gives fruits and vegetables free of charge to community members in need. Sourced by a generous donation by Mike's, JFS-Greenwich feeds the bodies and souls of our deserving and underserved communities.
Please click here for a YouTube video to learn more.
As a JFS Board Member, Barbara Salop (and Shir Ami Member) is also proud of the JFS Farmer's Market Stand, Powered by Mike's Organics which gives fruits and vegetables free of charge to community members in need. Sourced by a generous donation by Mike's, JFS-Greenwich feeds the bodies and souls of our deserving and underserved communities.
Please click here for a YouTube video to learn more.
The Food Bank is one of this area’s primary hunger-relief organizations. They provide food to any qualified non-profit agency in a six town area of Fairfield County (Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Stamford and Wilton) that serves low income people through congregate meals or bags of groceries. These agencies include soup kitchens, homeless shelters, food pantries, child day care centers, after school programs, senior centers and rehabilitation programs. For more information and volunteer opportunities, please go to their website https://www.foodbanklfc.org/.
Freedberg Family Kosher Food Pantry serves the Stamford, New Canaan, Darien, Westport, Weston, Wilton, Norwalk and Bridgeport communities. It providers Kosher food and personal care items, including assistance for pharmacy and transportation, to members of our community experiencing financial difficulties and are unable to afford food and household items for their families. The pantry will deliver meals to the home-bound. If you would like more information about the Freedberg Family Kosher Food Pantry, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky, LPC at 203-921-4161 or rkanefsky@ctjfs.org.