Make an Impact in Our Community One Mitzvah at a Time
At Kesher Israel, we believe small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Whether you have a few minutes or a few hours, there are so many meaningful ways to get involved. Explore our current initiatives and find what speaks to you.
Caring Through Food
On the second Tuesday of each month, Kesher Israel provides dinner for 20 men at the Safe Harbor shelter. You can help by donating grocery store gift cards or contributing funds to support these meals.
We deliver meals to members recovering from illness, families in mourning, or those welcoming a new baby (we also include Mazel Tov Bags!). Volunteers are needed to cook, deliver, or pay a caring visit.
Lend a hand preparing food or helping with setup and cleanup at synagogue events and meals.
Supporting Those in Need
We’ve committed to donating 40 full-size tubes of toothpaste each month to ACT in Faith. Drop off donations in the Tikkun Olam Corner in the synagogue lobby.
Donate gently used baby and children’s clothing, diapers, wipes, sleep sacks, baby blankets, baby toys, nursing supplies, formula/baby food, baby shampoo & baby wash and gently used books. There will be a bin in the school foyer. This ongoing initiative helps support local families in need throughout Chester County.
Help us collect warm, gently used coats and winter accessories (hats, scarves, gloves) for those in need during the fall and winter months. From Sept. 28–Oct. 20, Kesher Israel is teaming up with Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation for an Our Closet In Your Neighborhood (JFCS) coat drive.
On Nov. 6, coats will be given out for free at a pop-up shop hosted by Rodeph Shalom in Center City. Volunteers welcome!
Jewish Community Outreach
Every Friday, we deliver Shabbat bags to Jewish patients at Chester County Hospital and Paoli Hospital. Volunteers are needed to assemble and deliver these meaningful packages.
We’re forming a team of volunteers to attend shiva minyanim and assist with setup and cleanup to support mourners in their time of need. Please email Amy at akaminsky74@gmail.com to join this great initiative!
Caring for the Earth & Each Other
We collect used food pouches through TerraCycle to help reduce waste and raise funds for social action causes. Once you finish a pouch (applesauce, yogurt, etc) just place the lid back on the pouch and deposit it in the large bin located in the school foyer! Thank you in advance for saving your pouches! Last year, our pouches helped plant 20 trees in the rainforest and provide 53 meals for those in need!
Connecting Through Community
This unique mentoring program pairs Shabbat regulars, teachers, and parents with students during all-school Shabbat services. As a Bima Buddy, you’ll be matched with specific students—sitting with them during services, helping them follow the siddur, and sharing your knowledge of prayers and traditions. If you’re honored with an Aliyah, your student buddy will join you on the Bima to create a shared moment of meaning.
This intergenerational initiative brings together teens (12/13+) and seniors (65+) for Jewishly themed activities that foster connection and understanding. Participants enjoy conversation, cooking, crafting, and shared experiences that strengthen our community across generations. Seniors are welcome to participate as often as they’re able—no ongoing commitment required.
Ongoing Volunteer Roles
Become a surprise visitor in our Religious School classrooms! Adults are invited to sign up as Mystery Readers or Guest Speakers to share stories, traditions, or a short talk on “How I Live Jewishly Every Day.” This is a fun and inspiring way to connect with our students and help bring Jewish values to life.
We’re always looking for new voices on our synagogue committees—there’s a place for everyone.
Support our youngest learners by helping in the classroom, organizing supplies, or assisting teachers.
Welcome members and visitors with a warm smile at services or synagogue events.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Questions? Want to get involved?
Contact Rebecca Emerel at Rebecca.Stiefel@gmail.com
Or call the KI Office at 610-696-7210 | office@kesher-israel.org