8th Grade Kehila Initiative Final Program

SAR Academy’s 7th and 8th graders gathered to celebrate the culmination of the Kehila Initiative—a program that encourages SAR’s 8th graders to volunteer and give back to the community. Over the course of the year, 85% of the 8th-grade students participated in more than 370 hours of service across 43 different organizations. They also learned from individuals who had benefited from community service, heard from those who founded their own chesed organizations, and met high school students leading chesed clubs.

The 7th graders were introduced to the program, while the 8th graders reflected on their experiences. Principal Rabbi Binyamin Krauss delivered a Dvar Torah on the importance of engaging in acts of chesed and how it aligns with SAR’s mission. Several students shared their experiences, speaking about the profound impact that volunteering had on both others and themselves.

Students also took part in cross-grade learning, exploring Rabbi Sacks’ values of chesed and tzedakah, and exchanged insights about their volunteer experiences in small groups. They then participated in one of two hands-on activities—packing mishloach manot for residents of the Hebrew Home in Riverdale or sorting donated clothing for Yad Leah recipients in Israel.

It was a great way to wrap up a year of meaningful service while sparking excitement for the next wave of young volunteers. Thank you to Ms. Atara Douglas and Dr. Michelle Sarna for leading and facilitating this amazing program.