Every year, Smith Jewish Academy’s seventh graders embark on a unique and meaningful journey — one that transforms the traditional b’nei mitzvah gift exchange into a lesson in tz'dakah, leadership, and community impact.
The Seventh Grade B'nei Mitzvah Project, led by former SJA board president Robyn Schein, teaches students to think deeply about giving. Robyn, a senior consultant with 21/64, is a nationally recognized expert in multigenerational and next-generation philanthropy. She helps families and organizations navigate values-based giving, and she brings that same thoughtful approach to the classroom.
This tradition began during the pandemic, when families paused the typical b’nei mitzvah gift-giving between classmates and instead contributed collectively to support a charitable cause in honor of the entire class. What started as a practical solution quickly became an annual highlight — and a real-world learning experience in collaboration, empathy, and Jewish values.
Over the course of three sessions, Robyn guides students through a process of discovery and decision-making. They begin by exploring what it means to make a difference — sharing photos of people who inspire them and discussing the meaning of charity, tz'dakah (justice), and philanthropy (love of humanity). They compare for-profit and nonprofit models, learn how organizations define their missions, and identify causes that align with their values.
From there, students survey their own priorities, research organizations using tools like GuideStar, and present their recommendations to their peers. Through discussion, debate, and voting, they practice consensus building, negotiation, and presentation — ultimately selecting one charity to receive the class gift.
“Listening as these emerging adults grapple with meaningful questions — like whether splitting the funds lessens their impact — is truly inspiring,” Robyn reflected. “There’s so much we can learn from watching them find common ground.”
With Rabbi Justin’s partnership, Smith Jewish Academy is planting the seeds for the next evolution of this program — a year-long exploration of giving that connects Jewish learning with real-world action. The team is looking at ways to weave Torah study on tithing and communal responsibility into the curriculum, introduce discussions on Jewish approaches to justice, and even create opportunities for site visits or guest speakers from the organizations students choose to support. It’s an inspiring step toward helping students live the values they learn.