We loved hearing Lena Schmidt's take on 6 ways volunteering makes you happy. Check them out in this article! 

This past month TOV partnered with NECHAMA- Jewish Response to Disaster as a way to allow members of the community to lend a hand in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.We took 16 volunteers to Houston, Texas to work on rebuilding four different homes in three days. We asked two of our volunteers, Caryn and Pennie Fields, to describe their experience.

" We each curled up on our couches 25 miles apart and watched the devastation in Houston unfold. We were safe in our homes, surrounded by our treasured belongings and memories from a lifetime lived. We felt powerless, each wondering what we could do to help. 

 A notice went out from JUF about a relief mission. Caryn called asking if I would go with her (not mentioning she had already signed us up!). When we decided to go, we both instantly felt better. There was something concrete that we could do.

Arriving in Houston everything appeared like normal.  However, upon closer examination we could begin to see the destruction. Peoples’ possessions, their history, were piled up outside their homes on the streets. The fabric of their lives, now debris covering their yards.

 As we began our work it became clear that not only were houses destroyed, but lives.  Cars flooded, no transportation to work. Day care centers closed, no places for children to go during the day. Wages lost sure to lack of daycare, or businesses being destroyed.

 It was challenging work, both physically and emotionally, but nothing compared to what Houston residents had endured.  The people we helped were so grateful, full of hope and resilience.  Each member of our group worked with determination and compassion, as we did our small part in the relief efforts.  

 Back in our cozy homes, surrounded by things we hold dear, we can only hope that we made a difference in the lives of those we helped.  We tore down all that was damaged, hoping Houston residents can start to rebuild their lives.   

We are extremely grateful to all 16 volunteers that accompanied us on this trip! To find out more about our trip, view photos, and view videos, check out our Facebook page!

The projects and programs of TOV are made possible by our outstanding partner agencies. We are recognizing them periodically in our agency spotlight. This month, we are highlighting The ARK. The ARK provides free social and medical services to help distressed members of the Chicagoland Jewish community return to self-sufficiency.

We asked Sophia Zisook, Director of Volunteers and Outreach, a couple questions about the agency and their involvement with volunteers.

1. What is your agency mission?

To create a safety net for Chicagoland Jews in need by providing vital human services within a framework of Jewish values and laws. To also build bridges between volunteers and those in need in our community. 

2. How do volunteers help impact your agency?

The volunteers are crucial to everything we do. From helping us deliver meals on Thanksgiving to providing Chanukah gifts, the volunteers help us execute our largest programs of the year.

3. Why do you like working with TOV in particular?

The volunteers always come hungry for work and are reliable and kind. I know when TOV provides us with volunteers that we will be working with motivated and capable individuals.

Each year TOV partners with The ARK for Thanksgiving deliveries. There is still availability to assemble and deliver approximately two food packages to needy Jews living in Chicago or in the suburbs. Volunteers must have their own cars. Register here! 

We want to thank The ARK for all the incredible work they do and look forward to collaborating with them in the future!