How To: Fill Your Bar/Bat Mitzvah with Social Good

Becoming a bar or bat mitzvah means you'll be recognized as a Jewish adult, and part of that means living a life full of mitzvah ("good deed" in Hebrew), and giving back. Your Hebrew school encourages giving back to your community, so here are a few ways to incorporate what you've learned in your bar/bat mitzvah.

1. Choose a mitzvah project that speaks to your interest. Completing a volunteer project is an important part of your mitzvah, so work on something that you’re passionate about! Some volunteer gigs that you can take on include:
   • Start a tutoring program at your school
   • Volunteer at a children’s hospital or retirement home
   • Host a 5K run for your cause
   • Clean up a public space in your hometown, or volunteer at a national park
2. Accessorize the "bimah." Usually the bimah (the raised platform at the front of the synagogue) is decked out with flowers. Swap the floral arrangements with baskets guests can fill with food and other goods. After the ceremony, you can donate the baskets to a homeless shelter or a soup kitchen.
3. Learn something from your Torah reading. It’s stressful to memorize and then sing from the Torah in front of your loved ones, but perhaps saying it would be easier if you found something to relate to in your readings. Usually you have the opportunity to give a speech about your Torah portion, so try tying it in to something that means a lot to you. You can talk about the lessons you’ve learned from your mitzvah project, or tie it into an issue that riles you up.
4. Give back with your gifts. Instead of piling up checks and gifts from friends and family members, ask your bar or bat mitzvah guests to donate to a charity of your choosing. More people will benefit from their gifts in the long run.
5. Cut the bread. Typically during the breaking of the challah portion of the party, Grandpa says some prayers as he cuts into a sugary, sweet challah. Make a healthier, heartier version of challah using whole wheat flour and honey.
6. Have an eco-friendly party. Your party can still be awesome without being environmentally unfriendly. Here are some ideas that can help you throw the Bar/Bat Mitzvah of your eco-conscious dreams:
   • Make your party paperless.
   • "Green" your mitzvah outfit.
   • Serve organic, locally-grown food.
   • Green your flowers.