Camp Hillel joins HASC for hi-tech recycling

HASC and HAFTR’s Hillel Day Camp teamed up on Tuesday to create a hi-tech tikkn olam project.

HAFTR donated its old hardware to HASC for an e-recycling program. This hardware will be used by HASC to train individuals in their programs for possible careers. It will also allow HASC to use the scrap metal to raise money and awareness for their program.

The program was created by Sean Bokor, a recent HAFTR graduate.

“I walked around school and always saw left over hardware that was not being used,” Bokor said. “What can be better then donating to those who need it and helping the Jewish community.”

Boker and Hillel’s counselors-in-training created a party for HASC youngsters who visited the camp. Afterwards, the CITs helped load a very large truck with all the equipment.

Rabbi Aryeh Cohen, Hillel’s head of chinuch, spearheaded the Judaic side of this unique program.

“Torah teaches us that just as important as our relationship with Hashem is our care for each other,” Rabbi Cohen said. “This program was amazing in enabling our campers to both help others and make the world a better place. 

This summer at Hillel new and innovative technology was brought to the campers. In addition to the regular sports, swimming, and trips, campers explored engineering, robotics, 3D printing and computer programming.

“It is important to create an extension of the curriculum that HAFTR has initiated throughout the year,” explained Hillel Director Ari Solomon. “We want our campers to remember community as well. While we are on a vacation from school we are never on a vacation from education and community service.”

HAFTR and Hillel feel strongly  that they can teach children that technology is not only for games but is also a tool to help one succeed in the future and do good in the world — a powerful message of v’ahavta l’reacha kamocha.