Posted on August 28, 2015
Do you remember hiding behind your parents’ legs during times when you were uncomfortable and felt out of place?
Children are often taught the values of welcoming guests, respecting their elders and visiting the sick. Too often, discomfort and shyness get in the way of a child’s ability to partake in these values, and create a missed opportunity for forging meaningful relationships.
This is where Areyvut’s Mitzvah Clowning program comes to save the day. The act of establishing a new identity as a clown and putting on fun makeup and a costume allows for many kids (and adults too!) to break free of their discomfort and shyness while visiting special-needs children, nursing home patients and other strangers in need of a smile.
Since its debut in 2009, Areyvut has trained over 500 Mitzvah Clowns in the art of clowning, enabling them to actualize the values of visiting the sick and respecting the elderly.
The unique inter-generational program, geared for students 6th grade and up including teens and adults, teaches participants how to apply clown make-up, create balloon animals and engage in role play exercises that help them interact with those who are different from them. Following the initial training, Mitzvah Clowns go on site visits to local senior centers and agencies to put their clowning skills into action.
Starting October 11th, tweens, teens and adults in the Bergen County, MetroWest and NYC areas will have the opportunity to be part of a fun and meaningful group that will work together to actively make the world a better place. If you are interested in learning more about the programs in your areas (Bergen County, MetroWest, and NYC), please visit our website at www.areyvut.org or email social@areyvut.org.
We look forward to clowning around with you!
