“It is not what one says, but rather what one does,that makes all the difference in the world.” (Pirkei Avot 1:17)

The volunteer experience is something remarkable for families. 

In the cold of winter, Beth Tzedec families come together to lend a helping hand. On Tuesday nights, with smiling faces, they roll up their sleeves to prepare and serve food to those less fortunate.

Out of the Cold is a volunteer initiative that provides safe refuge, hospitality and emergency shelter to the homeless community throughout the City of Toronto. Beth Tzedec Congregation partners with Beth Sholom Synagogue on this amazing project and up to 60 homeless people are given a place to spend the night. Dozens more are given hot meals, clothing, an opportunity to express themselves through art and a chance to socialize in a safe environment.

The program runs January through March and there are a variety of shifts for volunteers to help pack lunches, prepare the room, serve dinner and help distribute clothes and toiletries.

The volunteer experience is something remarkable for families. Parents are able to see the confidence in their children, the humbleness that they display, and the kindness and compassion towards others. At Beth Tzedec we speak about Tikkun Olam and grandiose ways that we can help repair the world. Out of the Cold is a perfect example of how we help our own community. Out of the Cold participants appreciate the dedication and friendliness of the volunteers. It is truly amazing to take the time out of your busy day to help others.The Out of the Cold program is not only a volunteer experience; it is also an amazing opportunity to connect with people. Program participants return weekly, establishing relationships with the volunteers and connecting on levels deeper than ‘what they thought of the soup’.

If families are looking for an opportunity to connect to each other on a deeper level and to begin to teach their children about the realities of our world, Tuesdays at Out of the Cold is the place to start. There are opportunities to volunteer at our monthly Beth Tzedec volunteer days, you can sign up directly with the program coordinators by clicking here, or for more information please contact me.