Areyvut’s 6th Annual Bnai Mitzvah Essay Contest

I am pleased to announce Areyvut’s 6th Annual Bnai Mitzvah Essay Contest. The contest recognizes Bnai Mitzvah students throughout the world who have chosen to make a difference by actively contributing to their communities. The contest has always been an important program for Areyvut because it enables us to learn about innovative projects, highlight the importance of infusing one’s celebration with chesed and inspire others to make a difference.

In addition to receiving great prizes, the winners will have their video featured on the Areyvut site, YouTube page and be highlighted in our e-Newsletter. Past winners Cheli Arussy, Timor Balaish, Dennis Fries and Sarita Rosenstock have attended Areyvut programs to speak to students, parents and educators about their projects.

The contest is open to all 5th-10th grade students and they should create a 2-7 minute video that captures why and how they incorporated (or will incorporate) the values of chesed (kindness), tzedakah (charity) and tikkun olam (social justice) into their Bnai Mitzvah celebration.

Their video should answer the following questions:

How did (or how will) you make (or will) the values of chesed, tzedakah and tikkun olam an important part of your Bnai Mitzvah celebration?
Why did (or will) you participate in a service project?
Why did you choose this project?
How did (or how will) this project impact your Bnai Mitzvah celebration?
If you already had you Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration, how have you continued your project?

For more information please visit the official rules and guidelines. The deadline is Friday, December 25, 2009. Feel free to post this in your synagogue bulletin, school newsletter and to encourage your students and congregants to participate.