Hello, my name is Elena Berezovskaya, and I am a volunteer at RVC. Since childhood, I knew I wanted to help others and even dreamed of becoming a doctor. Perhaps this desire to be helpful was inspired by the behavior of my many neighbors from 14 apartments in a large old courtyard in Chisinau, where everyone lived harmoniously and was always ready to lend a hand. My family also had a great influence on me — we had an unspoken rule: anyone who came to our home should be fed, warmed, comforted, and helped.

I had my first volunteering experience in Rybnitsa, where I was invited to try myself as a volunteer at the Hesed Rachel Day Center. My first group consisted of elderly clients, and I felt like I was surrounded by my own grandparents, who were genuinely interested in me and what I was sharing. I felt the same warmth and involvement from the staff: the head of the Day Center Lilia Katz, the director of Hesed Raisa Moiseevna Akulova, and the wonderful cook Maya — I felt at home!

Later, from April 2000 to January 2007, I conducted group discussions with lonely elderly clients at the Day Center. Even after finishing my volunteer work at Hesed, I continued to gladly attend Shabbat gatherings and celebrate traditional holidays with members of the Jewish community.

In early March 2022, I decided to help Ukrainian refugees and brought clothes, dishes, and bedding to the RVC. But what I thought would be a one-time act turned out to be my entry ticket into the volunteer call center. Later, I participated in the RVC project "All About Everything" — leading group phone discussions with lonely elderly individuals. I’ve also been part of the “Phone Friendship” project for over two years.

I enjoy feeling like part of a big and friendly volunteer family, and seeing that my efforts bring real benefit to others!

Hello, my name is Zlata Volynchuk, and since the summer of 2024, I’ve been a member of the big family of the Republican Volunteer Center. I first heard about the center from a classmate, and at that time I was drawn to the idea of becoming a volunteer and helping those in need. Now I participate in several projects.

I regularly call clients as part of the Call Center project. I enjoy talking to people and informing them about upcoming events. I also help organize events held at RVC and KEDEM. This activity allows me to explore what goes on behind the scenes and learn everything that experienced organizers know. I love seeing how much joy our guests experience and knowing that I played a part in that.

Another project I take part in is the English language learning program in the Jewish kindergarten. I help young children learn a foreign language to expand their future communication opportunities — because today, the world is open to each of us.

RVC has become a place for me where new friendships and knowledge flourish. But most importantly, it’s a place where helping others takes on a real, tangible form, and kindness becomes more than just an abstract idea. Our team is ready to lend a hand and can solve almost any task! Additionally, the volunteer center helped me discover the depth and importance of Jewish traditions. I’m so glad I once chose this path and I invite everyone to join our team!

Hello, my name is Komleva Tatyana, and for more than two years, I have been a member of the big and friendly family of the Republican Volunteer Center (RVC). I first learned about the center's activities at the "Volunteer School" seminar, which took place in Vadul-lui-Vodă. It was there that I felt the spirit of volunteering and decided to embark on this path.

One of the first events I participated in was Good Deeds Day, during which our team visited a nursing home to bring treats and share the joy of personal interaction. My active communication with the elderly continued within the ITbabushka project, where we taught them the basics of using a computer. Later, I joined the ITded project, where we helped them learn how to use smartphones.

Another project I take part in is the "Origins of Mercy" program. As a volunteer, I visit an elderly beneficiary who, over time, has become truly dear to me. The gratitude of those you help is an immense motivation and a truly valuable reward!

I grew up in a Jewish family, attended a Jewish kindergarten and school, so participating in RVC and KEDEM programs has been a wonderful opportunity to honor the traditions of my people while also developing my Jewish identity and remaining part of a united community.

Hello, my name is Yulia Zablotskaya, and I am a volunteer at the Jewish Volunteer Center. My husband and son also actively participate in various programs and initiatives of the center. In addition to helping others, I am discovering Jewish traditions and immersing myself in the wonderful world of Jewish culture. For my son and me, the Mazel Tov classes became the window into this world. Thanks to them, I learned that one of the central values in Jewish culture is helping others.

Volunteering has become an opportunity for me to discover new facets of myself and become the best version of myself. Furthermore, it is a way to change the lives of others by doing small but important good deeds! Our center has a true family atmosphere, where everyone is ready to support and help! I like to think that together we are such a powerful force that can truly make our world a better place!

Anna Grigorievna Rysina was born on September 6, 1926 – a volunteer. She is one of the first volunteers of the "Jewish Community Charitable Center 'Hesed Tikva'," dedicating 28 years of her life to the Bryansk Jewish charitable center "Hesed Tikva."

"...When I came to 'Hesed Tikva' 28 years ago, I wasn't yet 70. It was 1996. I was told that a Hesed was opening, and I said, 'Of course, I’ll go.' Everything here was so interesting! We visited the sick, those who were unwell. Back then, we didn’t know where the Jews lived. One person would mention someone, and another would say something about someone else. That’s how we searched for Jews. Some were afraid: 'Why does anyone need to know I’m Jewish?' At that time, the Hesed was still under renovation. My first job was to wash the light fixtures. I immediately became a trainer, leading a group in physical education. In the morning, I worked with retirees, and in the evening, I worked with those who were employed (and for almost ten more years, I ran in the park during the summer, although at 80 I became a little lazy). About a month later, Irina Iosifovna Chernyak, the director of the Hesed, suggested I take care of the library."

"...Before, I worked at a steel plant in Bezhitsa (a district of Bryansk), as a casting engineer. And at our factory, there was a good library. We read books, exchanged impressions, and always had a book club gathering. We discussed different books. I was there in the library for more than fifty years. So, when I came to the girls at the Hesed, I said, 'Teach me to be a librarian.' They showed me how to track books, how to organize them, how to maintain the borrowing logs. Well, I am, of course, obedient. Since we started dealing with the library..."

Thanks to Anna Grigorievna, the library was replenished with many new books, including historical women's novels and works about Jewish dynasties. Now, at 98 years old, Anna Grigorievna continues to actively participate in the life of the center, receiving care and support in return. Despite having suffered a leg injury, she still visits the Hesed several times a month. In her volunteer group, there are 10 people working in the library: issuing books, tracking incoming literature, improving the catalog, etc. She still participates in many events at "Hesed Tikva" and actively leads educational activities.

"Hesed is my family. Irina Iosifovna has created a great thing. What should a person do in life? My technology, my drawings, and technical conditions have remained. They work according to them at the factory. But here is the library. Irina Iosifovna created something that cannot be conveyed, how many people she saves with it."

"Once, I fell at home and broke my hip. I couldn’t get up. I fell, and I called Masha, who comes to me every day as part of the Hesed program. I said, 'I fell, I can’t get up.' She didn’t have a key. I crawled out of the room. I remember how they show in movies that soldiers crawl when their legs are injured. That's how I crawled to the door. Since I’m small, the lock is low, I stretched, opened the door, and passed out. Masha arrived with her husband. They lifted me, put me on the bed, and called an ambulance. If it weren’t for Hesed, I wouldn’t have survived. They immediately bought me a special anti-decubitus mattress, diapers, and wipes, and they also made a handrail for me in the bathroom."

Anna Grigorievna emphasizes the importance of reading and knowledge, especially noting that books are a "great thing." She advises young people to dedicate time to reading, expanding their horizons, and finding inspiration in literature. Anna Grigorievna treats everyone with respect, regardless of their nationality or background. True intelligence, she believes, lies in seeing a person as an individual first.

Despite her age, she continued to actively participate in community life, engaging in physical activity and library work. Her example shows that even in retirement, one can remain a useful member of society and bring value to those around.

Anna Grigorievna's advice: "Read, respect the people around you, be active and useful to society, and remember that kindness returns."

Hello, my name is Malika, I am 14 years old, and I study at the B.Z. Hertzl Lyceum. My decision to become a volunteer was completely conscious and aligned with my inner desire to help others and be useful to society. Moreover, volunteering is a great opportunity to try myself in different areas and grow as a person.

I have participated in various projects such as “Origins of Mercy”, cooking masterclasses, and nutritionist lectures. Each of these events allows me to discover new facets of myself and learn something new. Participating in the center’s events also allows me to immerse myself in Jewish culture and study traditions.

The RVC team has become a real family to me, where friendly and trusting relationships thrive. We support each other like close relatives. And, in essence, what unites us is no less important than blood ties – it is the desire to help others and bring joy to those in need. I am very happy that I chose this path and invite everyone to become a part of our big volunteer family!

Hello! My name is Yulia Volshtein. Since 2012, I have been actively participating in various programs of our community and Volunteer Center. I began my creative journey in a group led by Tamara Feigina, and in 2019, I became its artistic director, "breathing new life" into the ensemble, which is now called Rikkudim Dance. Our group represents the community at creative venues in the city, taking part in various events, including the Festival of National Cultures of Belarus.

Creativity has always been my passion. New ideas constantly come to mind, and I can’t wait to bring them to life. I take great pleasure in watching them come to fruition. I firmly believe that there is so much more to life than just earning money! For me, the greatest reward is seeing the joyful faces of our audience!

Today, our ensemble is actively growing, thanks to the support of the community programs leader and our friend club "Ala Kefak," Anna Svetlichnikova. I am confident that many exciting performances await us ahead!

Hello, my name is Olesya Ryabova. My journey into volunteering began in childhood, thanks to my mother. She grew up in an orphanage and instilled in me a desire to help others. Even back then, I realized that the most frightening thing in life is loneliness.

My volunteering debut took place in 2008 when I helped a pregnant woman with a 7-year-old child with disabilities. Since then, I have become part of the volunteer movement and actively participate in various projects, including delivering Shabbat and food packages. Often, my daughters accompany me — it’s the best way to show them how many people need our support and care. For me, the greatest reward for helping is the happiness in people’s eyes!

A Story of a Family Volunteering

Menachem and Simcha, parents, and their daughter Naomi have been volunteering for 2.5 years. Menachem is the family's pillar, a person who understands the older generation and knows how to connect with them. Simcha is the driving force, always eager to meet new people, share warmth, and exchange experiences. Naomi, a kind and talented girl, studies at the “Tree of Life” school and draws strength from her relationship with her grandparents, easily communicating with the elderly.

Two years ago, a message appeared in the volunteer chat about delivering sufganiyot to an elderly Jewish woman. It turned out that Lenina Isaakovna was celebrating her 100th birthday. The family decided to visit her together, and since then, they have maintained this connection. They visit both for holidays and without reason. Menachem helps with household tasks, Simcha chats and brings new energy, and Naomi plays the violin, delighting Lenina Isaakovna and her daughter Svetlana.

Recently, the family celebrated Lenina Isaakovna's 102nd birthday. They’ve come to know and love her large family, which spans five generations living around the world. With their permission, some of their family stories may become the foundation for books about remarkable Jewish lives.

From the very beginning of his volunteer work, Stanislav Lenivkin involved his sons. He wanted to show them how easy it is to do good deeds. Their first step was delivering gifts to Hesed clients in their neighborhood. People always welcomed them warmly, and while the boys were initially shy, they soon became more confident. Often, they were invited for tea, and they couldn't refuse, as attention is the most important thing.

Later, the family participated in the "Zikaron" campaigns—cleaning Jewish cemeteries. They visited Malakhovka, Zapadnaya Dvina, Perlovka, and Tula. These events were always interesting, as they were part educational tours. The boys enjoy working with tools and understand the importance of preserving Jewish memory. This year, their younger sisters joined them in delivering matzah.

My name is Grunya Varzar, and I am a volunteer at Hesed in Tiraspol. For over 15 years, volunteering has been an integral part of my life, where I find meaning and joy. My journey began with a desire to help those in need, and this realization was a revelation for me.

I hold the “Craftswomen” project close to my heart, where we create cozy items for those in need. The “Warm Kindness” campaign, where I knit socks and slippers, has become a celebration for me, as each stitch represents warmth and care.

Helping distribute matzah and food packages brings me joy, especially when I see the grateful smiles of those receiving help. These moments inspire me to continue my volunteer work.

Volunteering not only allows me to improve others’ lives but also helps me grow as a person. I meet amazing people, and each new acquaintance becomes part of my story.

I believe that every step we take toward kindness makes a difference.

Adults involved in volunteering is a regular work. But it's much rarer to see children and teenagers helping others. And that's a shame. From my own experience, I can say that when a children participate in good deeds, they bring even more joy and warmth into the homes they visit.

I have been a volunteer in the Maagal Volunteer Community of the Joint Distribution Committee for nearly four years now. 

I have a volunteer partner - my eleven-year-old daughter, Diana. She took the initiative to join the project on her own. Diana knew what I was doing and always asked how it went, what was interesting. At some point, she suggested joining me. Now, every time I have a task, she asks, "Are you going? Can I come with you?" And almost every time, she’s part of the action. The freedom to choose is important. Diana is not just my partner, she’s also my comforter.

I often have a lot of emotions. For example, one time we went to make crafts with children with Down syndrome. Diana was so enthusiastically interacting with them. When we left, she said, "Mom, thank you for this meeting. These kids are just like us. If they ever need help, I’ll be there for them." That moved me to tears.

My daughter understands my sensitivity and always comforts me. We return home feeling inspired, knowing that we’ve lived at least one day to its fullest. We see doing good as a necessity. Diana never asks why or what for—we simply enjoy it. And people always greet us with enthusiasm.

My name is Elena and I am a volunteer in the "Maagal" community.

For 26 years, I’ve been living with rheumatoid arthritis, to the point where I have a second-degree disability. I have a wonderful husband, two grown sons, and a small elderly dog - all of whom love and often demand attention. And then there’s work and the endless routine so familiar to every woman.

But no, this story isn’t about that. It’s about how, a few years ago, I received a call inviting me to join the "Sipur Volunteers" project. This was my first experience with such work, but I knew that if someone needed my help, I was ready to set aside my pain, work, and household chores, get behind the wheel, and drive to people who didn’t know me but were eagerly waiting for me. I’ll admit, I was a little scared, as I wasn’t sure how I would be received, what I could offer these people beyond a small gift, and what words I could find. But when the door opened, I was greeted with a smile and kind eyes, and our simple greeting turned into a warm conversation over tea and pastries. You begin to forget all your worries, simply dissolving in the warmth emanating from your companion. And this wasn’t just in one house I visited, but in many homes where I now know for sure - I am always welcome.

Now I can say for certain what my story is about. It’s about how, in this crazy pace of life, sometimes you just need to stop and smile at an elderly, lonely person, wish them "Yom Tov," and in return, you will receive far more attention and care than you could ever imagine. That’s the life-giving force everyone needs - just faith, hope, love.

Hi, I’m Gil. A narrator, host, guide to the courtyards of Arbat, a volunteer with the "Maagal" movement, and much more.

Every mentally healthy man eventually ponders the meaning of life. If he is truly healthy, he will find it on the path to understanding the Almighty. If not yet — there are other options. Consequently, the question of the meaning of life arises. When I first encountered this question but didn’t know who to turn to or where to go, I decided not to waste time and, just in case, started doing good deeds (which, by the way, turned out to be very useful at all levels).

I've been a volunteer for many years: I visit clients at home, deliver humanitarian and food aid, and bring holiday gifts. I also organize free tours and lead community events.

And how can I do a good deed? Only by doing what I know and for those who need it. It's all very simple.

My name is Svetlana Martynova, and I am a volunteer with the "Maagal" volunteer movement of the "Joint" organization. My journey into volunteering began at the "Nativ" cultural center under the Embassy of the State of Israel in Moscow. I participated as a volunteer in various events organized by Nativ and the Embassy, such as Hebrew festivals, sports runs, and cultural programs dedicated to the memory of the Holocaust.

In addition, I carry out search activities to identify Jewish burial sites from the war period in the Smolensk region. Within the "Maagal" volunteer movement, I am actively involved in: holiday events, I deliver various Jewish treats to the Hesed beneficiaries, conduct culinary master classes on authentic Jewish cuisine, and respond to any call for help within my abilities.

I believe that a person lives as long as person is needed, as long as others depend on this person. That's why I strive to be helpful and to assist those in need.

My name is Yulia Sirenсo, and I am a volunteer at RVC.

Before becoming a volunteer at the RVC, I had no prior experience in volunteer work. I must admit that I had doubts about whether I could handle the responsibilities placed on me. However, I heard that our Center has a special atmosphere that makes it a place of strength, and that here, you will always find support in difficult moments.

I started by participating in environmental and large-scale projects, and now I devote most of my time to the "Call Center" direction within the "Information" project.

Why "Information"? Because I want to spread knowledge about jewish traditions and culture. Besides volunteering, I study at a Jewish lyceum, and I have much to share in order to preserve and pass on knowledge to future generations. I especially enjoy making calls related to Jewish holidays because it makes me feel connected to the traditions of our community.

To volunteers who are just starting their journey, I would say:

Find what motivates you to volunteer. For me, the motivation is overcoming myself. Sometimes, to be honest, I can be an undisciplined person, but I always strive to improve so that I can carry out my volunteer tasks with full dedication consistently.

Hello, my name is Nina Uperenko, and I’m a volunteer. I’ve always enjoyed helping people who find themselves in difficult situations. I used to listen with great interest to a friend who shared stories about her work in the community, and when the opportunity arose for me to join the volunteer movement myself, I didn’t hesitate for a second!

Beyond the desire to help others, I was also driven by the need to maintain a connection between generations. This is very important to me, perhaps because things didn’t quite work out with my own relatives. In the people I help, I’ve found the grandparents I was missing!

As part of my volunteer work, I deliver groceries. But this is also a great opportunity to learn more about our clients, to find out what difficulties they face and what kind of help they need. For elderly people, communication and emotional support are also crucial. During my visits, I try to share a part of my soul with them, bringing more joy and positivity! I like to think that I’m helping to make my clients' lives happier and more comfortable. I invite everyone to join our big, friendly volunteer family! Together, we can handle even the toughest challenges!

Hello, my name is Marina Nekhlin, and I am a volunteer of the "Maagal" volunteer movement of the "Joint" foundation. What motivated me to help others? Probably my deep involvement in the "Jewish community," where I have been for over 20 years. During this time, I have transitioned from being a regular participant to an event organizer and a journalist for Jewish media. In my recent project, I interviewed elderly victims of Nazism. Additionally, I am a shadchanit, who has arranged the happiness of many Jewish couples.

By closely interacting with people, I see the difficulties they face, and my status as a volunteer helps me ignite hope in them, nurture their intellect, and bring them joy during the holidays. As part of volunteer projects, I deliver smartphones to elderly Hesed clients and teach them how to use them to connect to online events via Zoom. Additionally, together with other volunteers, we bake cookies for our wards, which I then deliver to their homes.

I participate in Shabbat meetings at Hesed "Etel"—lighting candles and introducing attendees to the traditions of Shabbat. These wonderful evenings are filled with the warmth of all those gathered around the large table. Twice a year, my fellow volunteers and I clean Jewish cemeteries in the Moscow region and neighboring areas to preserve these important memorial sites for future generations. I enjoy taking an active part in the life of our community, helping those in need, and addressing other important tasks. For me, being a volunteer means being useful, showing by personal example that any help is needed and valuable!

Hello everyone! My name is Tatiana Komova, I am 24 years old, and I have been a volunteer for over 3 years. My journey into volunteering began with the “Caring Connection” project, where I participated in distributing smartphones. After interacting with many elderly people, I realized how lonely many of them are, and I wanted to make their lives better.

I started conducting online events and providing technical support for the elderly. Besides technical skills, I also have creative inclinations, so I happily joined the “Handy Hands” and “Craftswomen” projects. I also take part in large-scale events like “Day of Good Deeds.” I believe such events are a great opportunity for those who want to try their hand at volunteering.

For me, volunteering is not only a way to help others but also a means to grow and develop. Here, you will find everything needed for communication and self-improvement. You can make a meaningful contribution even if you’re not a master or an expert, and your opinion and input are always valued. I invite everyone to join our large and friendly volunteer family to grow together and make our world a better place!

Hello, my name is Zahar Ustinov. I am a student at the Agricultural College in Vitebsk and have been volunteering with our center for several years. Since childhood, I have been involved in the community. My mother took me to the Synagogue and the community center, which undoubtedly shaped my view of our community as a large, close-knit family. Naturally, I developed a desire to help members of this family. At the age of 11, I became an actor in the "Menorah" theater, and at 13, I read weekly Torah portions for teenagers.

In the AJT Teen Club, I launched my first project, "From Chess to Gadgets," aimed at bringing together people of different generations—youth taught older adults the basics of working with devices and gadgets, while grandmothers and grandfathers taught us to play chess! Soon, my second project, "Sefer-Seret," focused on books and cinema, will begin.

In addition, I have participated in other volunteer projects and events, and I am currently involved in the "Kosher Guest" and "Theater of Three Generations" projects. Volunteering provides me with invaluable experience in various aspects of life and allows me to meet interesting people. Most importantly, it gives me the confidence that I can make a real difference, and that brings me great joy!

Hello, my name is Elena Chernous. My journey as a volunteer began several years ago when I wanted to help deliver food packages. I saw a message in the parent chat of the Emuna AJTJunior family center's children's program saying that help was needed to deliver food packages for an upcoming holiday. I decided to participate in this initiative.

My first recipient was a kind and welcoming person. She was so happy with the delivered food and the attention she received. I was pleased to have brought not only food but also joy and hope to a lonely elderly person! I saw how important it was for her! I can say that this moment was a turning point for me, and I decided to dedicate myself to volunteering.

My daughter Sofya is also getting involved in the volunteer movement. One day, I needed to deliver a food package to a recipient, but I had no one to leave my daughter with. I took her with me, and I have no regrets. It's very important that our children learn the best from their parents because we are their role models! Since then, Sofya sometimes joins me on my volunteer visits to the elderly, showing empathy, interest, and asking questions. I am confident that she will become a volunteer in the future too!

I am now involved in many different projects, and I enjoy watching how our close-knit team of volunteers handles them excellently. Thank you for being there! Together, we are capable of so much!

Hello, my name is Polyakova Nelly. Since childhood, I couldn't pass by others' suffering and always strove to help those in need. This drive led me to medicine. My professional career ended due to my age (I am 87 years old), but the desire to be useful to people remained.

Many community members came to me for consultations, and I was always ready to answer all their questions. So when the idea of creating a medical online project came up, I happily agreed! For over three years now, I have been a volunteer for the "Health Hour" project. As a professional neurologist, I provide consultations and educational work within the project.

I enjoy volunteering because, unlike professional work, it has no age restrictions. You can help others regardless of how old you are. At the same time, you continue to grow and develop, meet new people, and always receive words of gratitude, which support you better than the most modern medicines! Volunteering helps me lead an active life, and even at 87, feel active and in demand!

Hello, my name is Kseniya Storozhenko. I am a volunteer at the center and very glad that I once learned about such a wonderful opportunity to benefit society. I am a student at the Tashkent branch of Lomonosov Moscow State University, and I have a rather busy schedule, but amidst lectures and homework, I always find time for volunteering.

I got acquainted with the Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) branch in Uzbekistan in 2024. I was attracted to the youth club and the intellectual game “What? Where? When?”. Soon, from a guest, I turned into an organizer and now actively help conduct the game within the framework of the “Jewish Revival” project, as well as organize meetings in the Youth Club.

I enjoy coming to the center, where I feel like a member of a big, friendly family. Here I can gain new experiences, develop my creative talents, and make new friends. Most importantly, I can bring real benefits to people and make their lives better! I invite everyone who cannot pass by someone else's misfortune to join our big and very necessary cause!

Hello, my name is Yulia Meikshans. Although I officially received the "volunteer" status relatively recently, volunteering has been in my blood since the beginning of my conscious life!

From a young age, I joined various volunteer movements. I helped anyone who needed support. I fed animals, collected gift sets for children in orphanages, and tried to provide help wherever it was necessary.

Over time, the "scale" of my volunteer activities changed. By becoming a volunteer at the Jewish center, I gained the opportunity to help a large number of people. This can be financial support or tangible physical assistance. There are always those who need help right now, and I am ready to provide it!

It saddens me that our society operates on the principle of "every man for himself," but I am happy to see that there are people who disagree with this. These are volunteers who have decided to dedicate a significant part of their lives to helping those in need. Now I am part of a big and friendly family, and together we are changing our society for the better, making it kinder and more responsive to the problems of others!

I am confident that each of you also has a volunteer spirit that will inevitably lead you to volunteer work!