Expeditions: Becoming a Teen Philanthropist

- Ariel (Bexley,OH)

The philanthropy expedition has been researching potential organizations to which we can allocate our funds.  Last week we visited Hebrew Senior Life and Mayyim Hayyim, two of the organizations we have as prospects.  Hebrew Senior Life, a retirement community, is seeking funding for its multi-generational programs.  On our visit we were received by many friendly people and got the chance to meet a few of the residents.  The leaders of the multi-generational programs showed us pictures of past events.  We also learned that there is a grade school on the property of the retirement community.  The visit gave us a glimpse of how the organization works and what it strives to do.  Mayyim Hayyim, a pluralistic Mikveh, is applying for a grant to expand it horizons.  We found Mayyim Hayyim to be very homey and extremely accepting.  The directors of Mayyim Hayyim gave us a tour around the Mikveh and let us figure out for ourselves the atmosphere of the place.  Our visit gave us a feel for the pluralistic community that was built around Mayyim Hayyim.  Tonight we got to meet Josh Zakim, a successful lawyer and devoted philanthropist.  Mr. Zakim gave us insight about philanthropy and integrating Tzedakah into our lives.  Our expedition has fabricated a mission statement that defines our values as a diverse group.  We are enthusiastic to continue researching and finding out what it really means to be a true philanthropist.