September 2023 / Elul 5783
Dear friend,
As we embrace the season of reflection and renewal, I’m thinking about my own experience with Jewish ritual, like mikveh.
Mikveh has been there to help me grow and change. It is here for so many of you at times of celebration, healing, and transition.
I became Mayyim Hayyim’s
CEO a few months ago, but my relationship to this extraordinary place goes back to 2006. That’s when I immersed in the mikveh for my conversion to Judaism.
After I emerged from the waters, my loved ones sang “siman tov u’mazel tov,” a celebratory Hebrew melody. I felt whole, complete, and fulfilled. In that moment, I formally joined the Jewish people.
That’s why I’m asking you to join me in making a generous gift of $36, $72, or even $180 to Mayyim Hayyim. Your support helps make moments of transformation like mine possible.
Now, in my office upstairs, I hear people singing by the mikveh each day. They have amazing stories:
Nancy immersed to mark the end of shloshim, the first month of mourning, after losing her beloved husband of 40 years.
Jonathan visited after becoming a dad to newborn twins, enjoying a moment of self-care and embracing parenthood.
Ash, a trans Jew, came to the mikveh to spiritually ready themself the day before their gender affirmation surgery.
Patty accompanied her daughter-in-law, Kate. Kate became Jewish two years ago. Together they returned to mark Kate’s 9th month of pregnancy — Patty’s first grandchild.
For some, coming to Mayyim Hayyim is a routine part of their week, month, or year. For others, mikveh immersion happens in response to big life moments.
When you make a gift of $36, $72, or even $180 to Mayyim Hayyim, you make mikveh open to all.
This season, nearly 200 guests will visit Mayyim Hayyim and immerse in the living waters to prepare for the new Jewish year. Donors like you keep the waters flowing. Thank you.
Shana Tova U’Metuka – to a Good and Sweet New Year,
Julie Childers, Chief Executive Officer