By Caleigh Alevy, LMSW
In my Jewish education, I learned that a mitzvah is a good deed or an act of kindness. When I googled the word, I found that the translation from Hebrew means “commanded by G-d”. Many Jewish people take this commandment as a responsibility and feel that doing a mitzvah is an obligation. In my youth, I thought of a mitzvah in its simplest form, helping others and making the world a better place. As an adult, I’ve expanded that meaning to include something else: connectedness.
Some mitzvot do not involve others, those are often actions like lighting candles on shabbat or keeping a kosher home. Those mitzvot create a spiritual connectedness with G-d and strengthen our own self-awareness.
It is through my work, however, that I most experience the power of connectedness in a mitzvah. As CJFS’s Volunteer and Outreach Social Worker, I see firsthand how our volunteers want to do something to help others and ultimately their mitzvah evolves to both giving AND receiving.
Their generosity motivated them to sign up to deliver groceries to an older person who can’t drive, or to socialize with someone living with dementia at CARES, or to visit with an isolated senior through Friendly Visitors. Then the magic happens. The connection and the relationship that develops becomes special to both the volunteer and the client. When that happens, I see as BOTH parties doing the mitzvah. Over time this strengthens the individuals, their relationship, and our community. When people feel connected, our world becomes a better place.
The mitzvah is particularly meaningful when a community member who doesn’t “want “or “need” help allows someone else into their life to lend a hand. Even in small moments, like when someone with a mobility challenge accepts help while crossing the street, both parties are performing a mitzvah.
This same spirit lives in the partnerships between CJFS staff, clients and volunteers. I am proud to experience bountiful mitzvot through CJFS as we strengthen our community and connectedness through both giving AND receiving.
Whether you are looking to get involved as a volunteer, know someone who may benefit from our services, or are ready to accept help yourself, there is space for you to be a part of CJFS.
And when you are ready, I hope I’m here to experience the ripple effect of your mitzvah.
Ready to make a difference or learn how CJFS can support you or someone you love? Contact Caleigh Alevy, CJFS Volunteer and Outreach Social Worker, at caleigh@cjfsbham or 205.278.7101.
