A few months ago, Anna Jacobs, a dedicated mother from Boca Raton, Florida, joined a volunteer mission to Israel with the PTA of Katz Hillel Day School. With hearts full of love and arms ready to help, she and her group partnered with Smiles for the Kids to bring joy and comfort to those affected by the October 7th attacks. Together, they threw a colorful, uplifting carnival for displaced children staying in a hotel in Netanya and rolled up their sleeves to cook and deliver meals to soldiers stationed nearby. It was an experience rooted in giving, empathy, and action.
And now, her son, Ryan, is following beautifully in her footsteps.
A Bar Mitzvah Built on Values
As Ryan prepares to celebrate his Bar Mitzvah, he is choosing to walk the same path of chessed his mother paved. Inspired by her example—and the values of community, responsibility, and kindness instilled in him by his parents and school—Ryan decided that his milestone moment would be more than just a celebration. It would be a mission.
Together with his family, Ryan will be hosting a barbecue on an IDF base for soldiers, bringing them not only food but also heartfelt appreciation and encouragement. But that’s not all—Ryan is also raising funds to donate a full basketball hoop and sports equipment to the base, combining two of his greatest passions: supporting Israeli soldiers and his love for sports.
Sports and Solidarity
For Ryan, basketball isn’t just a game—it’s a source of joy, discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. And it’s exactly those qualities that he sees in the soldiers of the IDF. By giving them a way to relax, unwind, and enjoy time together, Ryan hopes to boost morale and bring a piece of normalcy to their demanding routines.
In Ryan’s words, “Just like teamwork makes a team strong on the court, unity and dedication are what make the IDF strong too.”
This unique Bar Mitzvah project beautifully bridges his own coming-of-age moment with the values and vision he wants to carry forward into adulthood.
Join Ryan’s Journey
Ryan’s Bar Mitzvah isn’t just his personal celebration—it’s a collective opportunity to give back to those who give everything. With your help, Ryan can deliver not only a basketball hoop, but also a lasting symbol of appreciation and joy to the brave men and women protecting Israel.
Help Ryan honor his Bar Mitzvah by bringing strength, spirit, and sport to our soldiers in Israel. Support his campaign and become part of a mitzvah that truly makes a difference.
Donate to Ryan’s Campaign Today!
To learn more about creating a bar mitzvah project with Smiles for the Kids, please visit: https://smilesforthekids.com/bar-bat-mitzvah-program/