The Teen Division at Temple Emanu-El empowers students to grow as passionate, creative leaders and role models. Through meaningful Jewish experiences, we strive to ensure that every teen feels seen, valued, and deeply connected to our community. By fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, our programs not only create lasting memories but also prepare teens to carry these values into the future.
On Friday, November 22nd, our teens participated in a Midnight Run, a powerful program supporting individuals experiencing homelessness in Manhattan. They spent the evening preparing bagged meals, sorting clothing, and assembling hygiene kits before heading out to distribute these items. Along the way, our teens engaged with recipients, offering warmth, dignity, and conversation.
Before the outing, we discussed how to approach this work with respect and empathy, fostering meaningful connections. For many, this experience sparked reflection on the value of community care and the importance of giving back, further deepening their Jewish values and understanding of tikkun olam (repairing the world).
As they worked, our teens embodied the teaching from Pirkei Avot 2:21, “You are not obligated to complete the work, nor are you free to abandon it.” By engaging directly with individuals experiencing homelessness, they not only provided essential resources but also upheld the belief that every person is created b’tzelem Elohim (in the image of God), deserving of dignity and respect. These encounters inspired them to think about how they can continue to contribute to a more just and compassionate world.
