Congregation Adath Israel’s Hebrew School Donates Money To Two Local Charities

Hebrew School students of Congregation Adath Israel in Newtown collected $500 over the course of the school year by bringing in their coins and dollar bills, and presented their donation to two local organizations — Newtown’s Relay For Life and the Canine Advocates of Newtown, Inc — on the last day of school on Sunday, May 17.

Guy Russo, founder of Newtown’s Relay For Life, which raises money to fight cancer, was on hand to accept a check from Rabbi Shaul Praver, who is also principal of the Hebrew School. Mr Russo explained to students, parents, and teachers that he was inspired to start Newtown’s Relay For Life in honor of his father, who had cancer. Newtown will host its 2009 Relay For Life on June 13–14 at Fairfield Hills.

A board member of Canine Advocates of Newtown, Inc, Jodi Bialik thanked the students on behalf of her organization and noted that because of the tough economic situation, many charities have not been receiving as many donations as in the past. Canine Advocates uses donation money to help buy food and pay vet bills while stray dogs and cats are waiting to be adopted. The group is also raising money for a new, larger shelter.

Students took an active part in deciding which charities would be awarded with a donation, traditionally called “tzedakah.” They brainstormed ideas with their individual classes, and then voted on local charities. Helping animals and helping people with cancer were the two top choices.

Congregation Adath Israel’s education program reflects the Jewish tradition of lifelong learning. A preschool playgroup focuses on holidays, crafts, and singing. Kindergarten through third grade creates a foundation of Jewish experiences with instruction in Hebrew, culture, and Torah. The fourth through seventh grade focuses on preparation for bar and bat mitzvahs and Jewish living with courses in Hebrew, Jewish history, ritual, Torah, Israel and modern global politics. Learning and fellowship continue with programs for teenagers and a variety of adult education programs.