Tikkun Olam - Repairing the World

Kellen McClenahan Kahn, founding member of SVP Youth and son of Board President Kerry McClenahan, reflects on fundraising at his Bar Mitzvah for Peninsula Children's Learning Center.

I recently had my Bar Mitzvah, a tradition in the Jewish faith that is essentially a coming of age celebration. When I had my Bar Mitzvah, I got to choose a charity or a good cause to donate time and/or money to, which is also part of the tradition. In Hebrew, there is a phrase called "tikkun olam," meaning “repairing the world.” A part of every single Bar Mitzvah is giving back, and I chose to give back through SVPY and Peninsula Children’s Learning Center.

My Bar Mitzvah celebration included centerpieces at each table that were gift baskets for Peninsula containing items like books, art supplies and classroom supplies. In addition to the supplies helping the kids and teachers at Peninsula, the information cards on the table helped educate all of my guests about SVPY and Peninsula. I’m also donating a portion of the monetary gifts I have received for my Bar Mitzvah to SVPY.I chose to help SVPY for two reasons: first, it helps kids learn about philanthropy and community service, and makes the world a smarter and better place; and second, my mom was involved with SVP already, so I knew it was a good organization. I love helping out in my community, and SVPY is a fun, effective, and satisfying way to do it. My Bar Mitzvah was a great opportunity to give back to my city and meet kids like me who want to help out too.