School Chesed: Trip to the Nursing Home

On Friday, November 3, North Shore Hebrew Academy High School students had the opportunity to volunteer at a Great Neck Nursing Home. When we first arrived at the nursing home, we sang and danced with the residents. Adhering to Jewish conservative customs, boys and girls danced separately to Jewish songs. A few of the elders recognized some of the songs and sang along, which was a merry addition to the dancing. The ones who didn’t recognize the music clapped; they were simply happy to be there. After the dancing, we sang Shalom Aleichem. It was very spiritual and uplifting to see people of such varying ages have fun together.

After we sang, one of the residents said Kiddush and HaMotzi, followed by a Dvar Torah given by Mrs. Septimus. Mrs. Septimus spoke about Akeidat Yitzchak and the three strangers the Avraham let into his house. When Avraham saw them, he bowed deeply before them and immediately offered his hospitality to them. During the visit, the three men warned him about HaShem’s judgment regarding Sodom and Gomorrah. It was a beautiful Dvar Torah, and extremely enlightening. Following the Dvar Torah, the students spoke to the residents and engaged in activities with them, such as drawing. While teachers distributed challah amongst the elders, the students engaged with the residents to the sound of cheerful music. It was very emotional for both the students and the elders. It was such a beautiful experience and everyone had a wonderful time.