Jessica learned how to make earrings from her grandmother and on the occasion of her Bat Mitzvah, used her talent for earring-making to help those less fortunate than herself. Jessica sold the earrings that she made and chose Care for Israel - Afikim as the recipient of the proceeds from the sales of her earrings. Her donation was used to dedicate the computer center in honor of her beloved grandparents, Gertrude z"l and Jay Cohen, and Ruth and Robert Hutter. The computer program, known as "Bridging the Digital Gap", is an integral part of the Afikim academic program and it offers disadvantaged children access to computer facilities. The children not only use the computers to prepare homework assignments, research projects, and independent study, they also participate in a weekly computer course. Professional instructors closely guide each student-at his or her own pace-- in acquiring the computer know-how and skills that are essential for their academic advancement.
On the day following the Passover holiday, Jessica Hutter and her family visited the Jerusalem Afikim branch. Their visit presented a wonderful opportunity to say thank you and to host a ceremony dedicating the computer center. At the dedication, Afikim staff, children and parents expressed their overwhelming appreciation of Jessica's efforts to raise money and they presented Jessica with a gift and a certificate in honor of her Bat Mitzvah. The dedication was followed by a festive Maimouna celebration where a good time was had by all. |