If you are eager to help Jewish people in Israel, several organizations make it very easy. Financial donations are always needed, but the need is higher now than ever. However, donating your time through various volunteer opportunities can also have a profound impact and make a meaningful difference in the lives of Jewish people.
Colel Chabad is a place to volunteer where you can be confident your efforts are not in vain.
The Power of Volunteering
Unfortunately, many people believe that if they cannot give financially, they won’t make a difference. However, that is far from the truth. Volunteering your time and skills can be just as impactful, and like financial donations, volunteers are always needed for Jewish charities.
Volunteering is a powerful way to give back and support those in need.
It allows you to:
Directly engage with the community you are helping
Forge meaningful connections
Witness the positive impact of your efforts
Jewish philanthropy has a rich history, emphasizing acts of loving-kindness (Chesed) and Tzedakah (charitable giving) as core values. Volunteering aligns perfectly with these principles, offering you a chance to embody the spirit of giving charity to the poor.
History of Jewish Philanthropy
Jewish philanthropy has a centuries-old legacy dating back to Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi in 1788 when he founded Colel Chabad. It is the oldest continuously operating tzedakah network in Israel. Understanding our history allows you to appreciate the significance of your contributions. It also emphasizes the enduring impact they can have on Israeli families and communities.
Philanthropy is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, with numerous biblical examples of generosity and caring for others.
For instance, the Torah commands Jews to leave a corner of their field unharvested for the poor (Leviticus 19:9-10) and to give tithes to support the needy (Deuteronomy 14:28-29). These values extend beyond charity to encompass acts of kindness and social responsibility.
Tzedakah, Chesed and Acts of Kindness
Tzedakah, the Hebrew term for charitable giving, holds a central place in Jewish tradition, highlighting the moral obligation to support those who are less fortunate. It is a profound expression of compassion and empathy, reflecting the essence of Chesed: acts of loving-kindness.
In this noble pursuit, volunteering becomes a tangible embodiment of these values. By actively engaging in acts of generosity and selflessness, you contribute to the betterment of society and positively impact the lives of those in need. Your dedication to improving the well-being of others serves as an inspiration and a testament to the enduring principles of Tzedakah and Chesed.
Volunteering to Help and Donating
While financial donations are crucial, your time and effort can be equally valuable. Volunteering allows you to engage in hands-on activities that directly benefit Israeli families. Whether you volunteer at a soup kitchen or participate in meals-on-wheels programs, your help is urgently needed.
It’s also worth noting that small but consistent donations can still make a significant impact. Even a few hours a month can help alleviate financial burdens for struggling families and provide vital resources to those in need. Colel Chabad offers various volunteer opportunities that can accommodate your time, skills, and interests.
Volunteer Opportunities with Colel Chabad
Colel Chabad offers various volunteer opportunities that cater to different areas of need within Israeli communities. You can explore options such as volunteering at soup kitchens, joining meals-on-wheels initiatives, or assisting with pantry packing through organizations like Pantry Packers. Each experience provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the well-being of Jewish people in Israel.
In the case of Pantry Packers, your role as a volunteer would involve assembling meal packages for the needy. The program starts with a 90-minute video about Tzedakah’s meaning and then involves bagging and vacuum-sealing dried staples.
If you would like to offer financial donations in addition to your time, learn about the best ways to donate to Jewish charities in Israel next.
Volunteer for a Jewish Organization
Supporting Jewish people in Israel is a noble and deeply fulfilling endeavor. By volunteering your time and resources, you can positively impact the lives of those in need. Colel Chabad, with its rich history and commitment to Tzedakah, offers you a meaningful way to contribute.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities with Colel Chabad or to donate critically-needed funds, please browse our website to learn more. Your support will make a world of difference—take the next step and get involved today.