Talking Tikkun Olam by Marzy Bauer

Nothing But Nets-2nd Year

Temple Beth-El's 8th grade Religious School students just completed a unit on Social Justice in America and in the world. They learned that malaria is the leading killer of children in Africa and that $10 would buy a bed net to protect an entire family for several years. With the help of a mini-grant and some materials from the URJ, the students made flyers and posters, and went to all of the religious school classes to talk to other students about the need to protect refugees in Africa from malaria. The class designed a flyer that was sent to the Temple membership. On Sunday, February 7th, the class of six students assembled 2 mini-basketball hoops and sold chances to throw baskets and enter a drawing to win an Ipod and gift certificates. The entire religious school (about 60 children) came down to the lobby area to shoot baskets. The students also sought donations from participants at a Temple Board retreat held the week before, and from adults attending a Brotherhood brunch meeting. A number of adults who were at Temple for the meetings or brought their children to school also contributed cash and checks. One member donated to urj/nets on-line. The Brotherhood gave us the proceeds of their brunch. We are sending a check to Nothing But Nets for $1500 - again an amazing amount from a small congregation for just a day's worth of fundraising and fun! Thanks to all who participated and sent in checks to support this worthy cause.

On behalf ot the 8th grade class, I would like to thank everyone who participated and contributed to this worthy cause!