Give the Gift of Giving
History
Mitzvah Mall dates back to 2008 when Congregation Beth Sholom (CBS) members put their heads together to create an event that gave back to the community. For this unique bazaar, they sought a contemporary name with Jewish roots, thus, Mitzvah Mall was born.
The word ‘mitzvah’ means ‘commandment’ in Hebrew and over a few millennia it has become synonymous with doing good deeds. From PJ Library: “The emphasis is on deeds—not on positive thoughts or wishes, but on conscious acts of empathy and kindness.”
Mitzvah Mall is a good deed in action.
The basic principles of Mitzvah Mall have always been:
- Donations go directly to the nonprofits (partners)
- No products or services are sold to attendees (guests)
- Tchotchkes and promotional products are not allowed
Now, every November, CBS opens its doors to host this alternative, bizarre bazaar as a holiday gift to our greater community. Popular organizations that have participated include the Malawi Children’s Village, Alaska WildBird Rehabilitation, National Crisis Response Canines, Queens Guard, and Mobile Medics International, just to name a few.
Mitzvah Mall is also introduced to CBS and Joy Greisen Jewish Education Center (JEC) youth with a ‘Mitzvah Bucks’ program, passing this simple tradition of empathy and kindness to the next generation.
Mission
Mitzvah Mall is a non-denominational event that connects nonprofit organizations with the community in an environment that promotes equality among everyone involved.
Event Host
Congregation Beth Sholom (CBS)
CBS serves the Greater Anchorage Community as a progressive Jewish congregation that values diversity and welcomes everyone regardless of religious background, race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, political affiliation, ability, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.