Refuat Ha-Nefesh Application 2023

H. Demographics

I. Brief Statement

In one paragraph, please explain your personal goals for participating in this program. What do you hope to learn or gain from this experience?

J. Field Work

This year, we ask you to develop or participate in a “Mitzvah Project.”

If you are going to contribute an online workshop for a facility, it will probably require an application, interview and brief orientation and may require a background check, including fingerprints. Let us know if you will be caregiving to a family member or friend as your volunteer commitment.

Examples of Mitzvah Projects might be:

• Assisting with programs of the Jewish Community Services of South Florida (JCS) serving the needs of the JCS Program for Miami Beach Seniors on Espanola Way
• Developing a program for JCCs in any location
• Developing a program with a caring committee of a congregation
• Developing a program with Miami Jewish Health or other facility
• Assisting with programs with the Jewish Volunteer Center (JVC) of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation
• Assisting with any hospice program volunteer department, such as VITAS, AccentCare or L’Chaim with Catholic Hospice
• Assisting with a correctional facility like a jail or prison, or halfway house

Types of Programs might be:

• Visits with elders/others on a regular basis
• Mindfulness skills training including mussar, meditation, yoga or tai chi
• Art or music programs
• Call elders/others on a regular basis to check in and establish relationship
• A book club or short story group
• A creative writing program
• A legacy project
• Deliver food on a regular basis
• Help out at the JCS Kosher Food Bank

Rabbi Cheryl Weiner will help develop Mitzvah Projects, monitor their progress and evaluate their success in conjunction with each volunteer and the collaborating facility or organization.

Statement of Commitment

I understand that if I am accepted into the program, I commit myself to engaging in a Mitzvah Project that will represent about 32 hours of service to the community or being a caregiver to my family. This commitment will continue until the end of April, whereupon I may agree to keep volunteering my time.

I also commit myself to attend the weekly learning sessions on Tuesday evenings via Zoom.

If I cannot make a session, I will contact Rabbi Cheryl Weiner, Director, in advance to inform her if I will not be able to attend. I will try to attend Mishkan Miami and community programs, which while optional, I am encouraged to attend.

By submitting this form, I attest that the information I have provided on the form is true and accurate, and I agree to the stated above terms.

Best Times for Interview: