This past Sunday morning, after five hours of sleep and before going to my first Bears game, I spent some time volunteering at Keshet. This Sunday school offers a fun and educational environment for children and adults with disabilities. My experience at Keshet was unlike any other. 

Before I got there, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. All I had was some previous experience babysitting for a neighbor: a girl who was the same age as me except she had severe disabilities. Once I arrived at Keshet there were a dozen of volunteers who braved the cold and ice to come out that morning. Having no idea where to go, I asked one of them. After being directed down the hall, I met Rana, the Sunday school director. She was an incredibly busy woman, trying to single-handedly run the whole place. Rana quickly explained to me what Keshet was about and where I was assigned that day. I was in a room with two students, Alex and Gilit, and two other teacher aids, Tracy and Lindsey. Gilit was my student. She’s a forty-year old woman, who beyond her disabilities is one of the sweetest people I have ever met with a smile that can light up with world.

Gilit and I participated in a full day of singing. First we went to prayer along with several other Jewish songs, none of which I knew since I’m Christian but I joyfully clapped along. Then we went upstairs to watch a choir from another temple sing to all of the students. Next we went to snack, where I was introduced to Gilit’s best friend, Zach. Finally we all gathered back in the room for more prayers and songs from the Rabbi.

It was incredibly rewarding when Gilit smiled or when she started a conversation with me. All of the volunteers there help keep Keshet running and provide one-on-one attention to those who attend. Together, all of them give the students a remarkable Sunday experience and something to look forward to every week. Just as much as I hoped I touched Gilit’s life, she touched mine. I really hope I can get back there when Keshet starts up again after winter break because the three hours I spent there were amazing.