Tikkun Olam — Repairing the World
Mitzvah Day is one of Congregation Schaarai Zedek’s most meaningful annual traditions. Each year, hundreds of congregants of all ages come together to volunteer across Tampa Bay, supporting dozens of local nonprofits, schools, and service agencies. Whether you prefer hands-on work, creative projects, or opportunities right here at the temple, there is a place for everyone to make an impact.
Participants can choose from a wide range of volunteer projects—onsite at CSZ, offsite at community partner locations, or even simple mitzvot you can complete at home. Most projects are family-friendly, and children are welcome with an accompanying adult.
Project assignments are first-come, first-served, and each year’s roster of volunteer sites is unique. Past Mitzvah Day projects have included sorting clothing at Clothes to Kids, cleaning and beautifying local parks, preparing meals at Trinity Café, assembling teacher kits, making cards for seniors, supporting refugee families, grooming horses at therapeutic riding centers, serving families at Ronald McDonald House, packaging food for children experiencing hunger, and much more.
Mitzvah Day 2025 (1)
Mitzvah Day Information FINAL1
Each Mitzvah Day begins with a pancake breakfast hosted by Jr. SchZFTY, followed by a short kickoff with clergy, and time for teams to meet before heading off to volunteer. For those unable to participate in person, ongoing donations of non-perishables, books, games, new toys, and clothing allow every congregant to help repair the world in meaningful ways.
Mitzvah Day 2025 (1)
Every day can be Mitzvah Day.
Throughout the year, you’re invited to drop off donation items at the temple or support partner agencies directly.
(Examples vary each year)
Abby’s Organic Community Farm
Bakas Equestrian Center
Trinity Café / Feeding Tampa Bay
Metropolitan Ministries
Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services
Ronald McDonald House
Tampa Jewish Family Services
Humane Society of Tampa Bay
Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful
Clothes to Kids
Vista Gardens Park
Weinberg Village
Local public schools and early learning centers
On-campus projects for seniors, veterans, foster youth, and families
New details, registration links, and project lists are posted each year. If you have questions or want to get involved as a project captain, please contact office@zedek.org.