Mitzvah Clowning

Areyvut’s newest initiative, Mitzvah Clowning, is taking the area by storm.  As a nonprofit organization that often gives back to the local community in indirect ways, Areyvut staff have frequently been asked if we facilitate any hands-on programs that serve a need in the community.  After attending a Mitzvah Clowning session himself, given by Andrea Hirschfield, and being inspired to perpetuate the gift that keeps on giving, Daniel Rothner began Areyvut’s Mitzvah Clowning program.

To date, Daniel has trained over 180 people in the art of Mitzvah Clowning.  Each new clown is equipped with the knowledge and skills in speaking with people who are hospitalized, children with special needs   and senior citizens residing in assisted living facilities, applying clown make-up as well as creating balloon animals and hats.  This initiative has been and continues to be a great success.  Since its establishment in December 2009, Areyvut has facilitated monthly Mitzvah Clown visits to area senior centers and several trainings.  Those that have participated in the program are not only excited about having gained these new skills, but have continued their good deeds by visiting with patients on a regular basis.  Check out our pictures from some of our programs: Mitzvah Clowning Chesed Project in New Rochelle, NY, Mitzvah Clown Training in Teaneck, NJ, Mitzvah Clown Training with the Students of Magen David Yeshivah and video.
 
Mitzvah Clowning is not only the gift that keeps on giving, but it also provides people of all ages to get involved in the mitzvah of bikkur cholim (visiting the sick).  Younger participants has used this training as part of their Bar or Bat Mitzvah celebration and have included friends and family members in it, and adult volunteers are learning more about needs in their own community.

 
If you are interested in learning more about Areyvut’s Mitzvah Clowning program, or if you would like to attend our next session, please contact Daniel Rothner at (201) 244-6702 or daniel@areyvut.org.  Please note:  There is a fee for this program.  For more information, please contact Daniel Rothner at (201) 244-6702 or daniel@areyvut.org for more information.