Rabbi Janet Marder
Often, when I buy a Bar/Bat Mitzvah gift, I like to send along with the gift a check for a specific amount with the recipient’s name left blank. I explain in the accompanying note that this check is for tzedaka, and the Bar/Bat Mitzvah may make the check out to any organization that she or he chooses. Thirteen year olds get to know the pleasure of being a philanthropist, and I hope I am teaching them that a gift is not only something you receive for yourself. Having the opportunity to give to others is itself a gift. More»
