he Religious School of Congregation Emanu-El has a long tradition of supporting the work of organizations working for social justice through weekly tzedakah donations made by its students. Formerly known as “The Brightside Fund,” this program was given its name at a time when the “uptown” Jewish community dedicated itself to helping the newcomers who were flooding the gates of Ellis Island in a desperate search for the “brighter side” of life. However, more important than the name is the expectation that students will learn the importance of philanthropic giving. We ask for students to bring a contribution towards a communal project with them each time they come to school. Various charities in the United States and in Israel are chosen by our Sunday Student Council representatives to be the recipients of the funds collected by our Religious School students:
Yorkville Common Pantry
The first beneficiary of Religious School tzedakah funds for the 2007-2008 school year will be Yorkville Common Pantry. All contributions made by Religious School students through November 2007 will go to the pantry. Click here for our collection summary report.
Make-A-Wish Foundation
The 11 students in our democratically elected Student Council, led by sixth grade teacher Mark Willner, have selected the Make-A-Wish Foundation as our second beneficiary. All funds collected by our students through the end of January 2008 will go to this organization.
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