Every community has its “must-do” list. In Tidewater, it’s easy to find great restaurants, festivals, beaches, and museums. But some of the most memorable experiences aren’t places to visit – they are ways people choose to be part of the community.
Jewish life in Tidewater is built on connection, community, and caring for one another. Whether someone has lived in the area for decades or is new to the area, there are countless ways to become part of something bigger than oneself.
One can celebrate a holiday with friends, visit the Simon Family JCC, support a local Jewish organization, cheer on a community fundraiser, attend the Viginia Festival of Jewish Film, or spend time getting to know someone from a different generation. This list could go on forever.
But wait, there’s something else to add to the list. Become a BeAR mentor.
For one hour each week during the school year, BeAR volunteers read with second graders in local Title I schools. It sounds simple, but that hour becomes something special. Children build confidence, discover the joy of reading, and know that someone believes in them. Mentors leave with something too, a sense of purpose, new friendships, and the satisfaction of knowing they’re helping shape the future of the community.
There’s a reason Judaism places such value on caring for others. Communities don’t become strong by accident. They become strong because ordinary people choose to show up for each other.
As the new school year approaches, BeAR seeks caring adults in Norfolk and Virginia Beach who are ready to make a difference – one child and one hour at a time.
The next chapter starts soon, and there’s always room for one more person to help write it.
To learn more about becoming a BeAR mentor, contact Robin Ford at 757-321-2304 or rford@ujft.org.
