Poland: Mitzvah Month, Volunteerism & Respect

In Warsaw’s Lauder Morasha School, Jewish Mitzvahs come to life. Families came together and students learned about the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

November’s Mitzvah Month presented a unique opportunity for the children and parents of the Lauder-Morasha School to bring their Jewish learning to life, by participating in a variety of community volunteer activities. During the inaugural event, the children received Mitzvah books in which they then tracked their good deeds and collected points.

Later in the month, the participants held a donation drive and second-hand clothing swap. Proceeds from the activities were used to purchase personal care products and cleaning supplies for an orphanage in Kowalewo, Poland.

November was also host to a week of learning about the challenges faced by people with disabilities. Children from grades 1 through 7 met Mrs. Olga Bonczyk, an actress and singer, who was raised by deaf parents. She explained how her parents ensured that she learn to speak despite their limitations. Through workshops, Mrs. Bonczyk helped the children learn how to relate to people with disabilities and even taught them a few words in sign language.