There is a tradition in my particular faith that encourages the spiritual to pursue the path of "Tikkun Olam". Translated, this means to try and help repair the world where it is broken. Our commitment to service is not unlike many other faiths.
We need not look far to see the broken parts; the homeless, the sick, the poor, the oppressed.
On Sunday, November 2, 2008 I, along with two additional committee members and a number of dedicated Action Captains, will work to introduce more than 300 Jewish and Non-Jewish members of my Congregation to 15 different non-profit organizations in Orange County. It is our hope that those who participate will feel inspired and connected to the organization they choose and incorporate community service into their lives and the lives of their children for good.
We are calling this event "Mitzvah Launch". Traditionally, some synagogues call this "Mitzvah Day" but to limit this work to one day is not really what it's about. It is about making meaning in our own lives and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Much has been said about community organizers and volunteers these days and I have to say that casting negative opinions about a vital ingredient of our social culture is one of the silliest things I have heard someone in politics try to sell.
Our communities would be worse off if we relied only on our government to house, feed and care for our homeless, organize vital services for the elderly, and provide supplies and programs for school children living at or below the poverty level. Many of these organizations provide government agencies the statistical data they need in order to develop policy.
Running an non-profit organization requires the input of Attorneys, MBA's, LCSW's, and an army of liaison staff. If these positions were all salaried, most would cost upwards of 50K. Management level positions even higher.
Most organizations cannot sustain salaries and keep their doors open. They depend on us, community organizers and volunteers willing to do the work, plan the work, and lead the way for others.
It is appropriate to say these organizations provide for our community, and more specifically provide a hand up to the individuals they serve. Filling in the gaps between a government sponsored program is a tall order. That is why they are worth a few hours or more of our time.
Here are a few we will be helping:
Ronald McDonald House
Laguna Beach Friendship Shelter
Mercy House
Habitat for Humanity
Hemopet Life Line (Walking Greyhounds)
Binky Patrol
Brit Tikvah (A support group for parents with special needs children)
Jeremiah Society (Adults with special needs)
American Red Cross
Boodle Boxes (care packages) For Soldiers
Heritage Point
Orange County Coastkeeper
Save Darfur (Darfur Action and Aid)
"It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do a little".
- Sydney Smith, writer and clergyman (1771-1845)
No experience is required to help make the world a better place.
No comments:
Post a Comment