For my Bar Mitzvah project I chose to do a book drive for children ranging in age from babies to high school students. I am collecting books (new and gently used) and monetary donations for the Bridge of Books Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides books to underprivileged and at-risk youth in New Jersey.
I picked this project because I have always been drawn to books. They have never disappointed me and I can always count on them to find enjoyment and a sense of calm. To me, reading books is one of the most stress-relieving things to do, other than playing with my dog. I still remember when I got my first real book and I want others to have a memory like this too. Reading has always been a part of who I am and I want other kids to have an opportunity to feel that way too.
I chose this organization specifically because my mom has worked with underprivileged and at-risk youth in New Jersey. One of my favorite quotes from one of my favorite books, War Storm by Victoria Aveyard, is “inches for miles.” To me, my mom's work is very important because the world has a lot of problems involving people (including kids) not getting equal opportunities in life and my mom is helping take baby steps (or inches) to solve some of these larger (mile-long) problems. Through my mitzvah project, I would like to do the same. I often think that some of the children she helps are my age and it is hard to imagine what it is like for them. Being able to help these children through books and reading just feels right.
Thank you for supporting me and my mitzvah project, but more importantly, thank you for helping children gain access to books and the love of reading that I am grateful to have.
-Ben
Imagine growing up with no books in your home.
Books have the power to change lives - educationally, socially, emotionally and professionally. Unfortunately, there are still too many children today without books in their homes, schools and communities.
You can help. Become a fundraiser, and host a virtual book drive from the comfort of your home.
Help us fill bookshelves. Help us change a child’s life.
| Supporters | |||
| Name | Date | Amount | Comments |
| Bethany Hamberger | 11/04/2022 | $75.00 | Beverly Rubman | 10/20/2022 | $100.00 | Mazel tov Ben. This is an important Bar Mitzvah project!! | Carolyn Wortman | 10/14/2022 | $36.00 | Ilissa Schachman | 10/13/2022 | $25.00 | Mazel Tov Ben! Proud of you! The Schachman Family | Linda Bedell | 10/12/2022 | $54.00 | Mazel Tov | Asher Wallock | 10/12/2022 | $25.00 | Ashley Tashjian | 10/12/2022 | $36.00 | Proud of you, Ben! | Laure Richmond | 10/12/2022 | $54.00 | Pat Livesey | 10/05/2022 | $40.00 | This is a wonderful project. Many children will benefit from your compassion. | Paula Luxenberg | 10/03/2022 | $50.00 | Mazel tov on your Bar Mitzvah, Ben! | Rona Stein | 09/27/2022 | $36.00 | This is a great project. Hope you surpass your goal. Looking forward to seeing you in November. Lots of love, Rona | Allison Wise | 09/27/2022 | $36.00 | best of luck with this great cause! jake wise | Roger Coletti | 09/27/2022 | $100.00 | Good luck Ben with your book project. | Jonah Seewald | 09/26/2022 | $54.00 | B + P Beckman | 09/25/2022 | $54.00 | Ben - We are so very proud of the sensitive and intelligent young man you are, and can't wait to see you in November for your Bar Mitzvah weekend! ~ Bunny & Preston |
| Total | $775.00 | ||