Values in Action
“If we don’t believe that a cosmic personality is intervening in the world, then WE have to be the ones to heal the sick, reward the righteous, and ensure that the human moral agenda is realized.” -- Rabbi Adam Chalom
We believe that human power can improve the world, and we live what we
believe. We strive to make the world a better place through kind and caring action.
Values in Action programs are open not only to the entire congregation, but we also encourage members to bring friends and family. These events are an easy and comfortable way for visitors or those considering membership to come to know us better.
Some of our most popular Values in Action programs are:
Mitzvah Day
Kol Hadash and the North Shore Unitarian Church come together every March for our joint Mitzvah Day. If you think it feels good to volunteer for a good cause, it feels that much better to join together and do good for many worthwhile causes.
Feeding the Hungry
We provide food to those who need it by volunteering regularly with Northern Illinois Food Bank (Highwood) and organizing collections for local food pantries. We have also partnered to serve food at Ronald McDonald’s House, PADS, Feed My Starving Children, JUF Café and Beth Emet Soup Kitchen.
Giving Kids a Smile
Our children learn tikkun olum (repairing the world) through hands-on participation in meaningful projects that help other children. Their favorites are making fleece blankets for sick children through Chai Lifelines and sorting books at Bernie’s Book Bank. We also collect holiday gifts for needy children through Community Alternatives Unlimited.
Aiding Victims of Domestic Abuse
For the High Holidays, we collect groceries, toiletries and other Wish List items for A Safe Place. In the spring our team, The Kol Hadashers, walk and run in a benefit 5K. A Safe Place gives victims of domestic violence the full spectrum of support they need to fully recover and transform their lives.
Helping Hands
We help people within our own community when the need arises, such as providing a ride to a doctor’s office or grocery shopping, cooking, or simply offering a helping hand.
And more…
We volunteer with JUF Tikkun Olam Volunteer Network (TOV), knit hats and scarves, support military families and more.
Read Rabbi Chalom’s blog posts related to The Week of Action, which is a program in response to the National Day of Prayer.
Read Rabbi Chalom’s 2020 High Holiday sermons on the topics “Am I My Brother’s Keeper?” and “If Not Now, When?” or watch the sermons below.