Tikkun Olam
How wonderful it is that no one need wait a single moment to start to improve the world.
~ Anne Frank
Tikkun Olam, the repair or improvement of the world, is a fundamental part of the Jewish way of life. It is a chief means of expressing thanks to God for our own blessings, of seeking forgiveness for our shortcomings, and of seeking to extend blessing to our family, friends, neighbors, and all our fellow creatures. Our congregation seeks to perform Tikkun Olam in many ways, one of which is through the work of our Social Action Committee. Please contact the Temple if you would like to get involved.
Every year Temple Shir Shalom holds an Annual Food Drive to help The Bread of the Mighty Food Bank during the High Holidays. In addition we participate in JCNCF's Mitzvah Day, help support Family Promise of Gainesville who provide families experiencing homelessness with compassionate care that includes case management, education, housing, meals and transportation until they can transition to a home of their own.
Pineridge Community Center is an after school program for students who live in the neighborhood, and attend Talbott Elementary. The Center is open to 10-15 students in Grades 3 through 5. Each day a different volunteer group comes to the Center, and Temple Shir Shalom's day is Monday from 2:30-5:00. We help with homework and provide enrichment activities. We have brought special guests to the Center. Every year, we have sponsored a Holiday Party. Congregants can choose a child and provide a special holiday for them, which always includes brand new pajamas.