Generations of girls grew up with Bnos Shabbos groups. And thousands of girls are still inspired and entertained each Shabbos afternoon. But today, Bnos is so much more, creating a range of programs that address girls and young women of all ages.
Bnos Agudas Yisroel just wrapped up its 5783 season. There were plenty of classic Bnos fun-with-a-purpose activities. Besides Shabbos groups, there were contests throughout the year. Aseres Y’mai Teshuvah, Chanukah, Tu B’shvat, Purim, and Lag B’omer were all occasions for virtual events with storytellers, games, and more.
Lakewood Bnos saw tremendous growth with the introduction of the Likras Shabbos Friday night program. Groups of girls joined together after hadlakas neiros to learn about Shabbos and have fun with their friends. The end-of-year membership event drew over 500 Lakewood girls!
Doroseinu’s intergenerational programming was stronger than ever, bridging the gap between girls and seniors. Under the auspices of BBC (Bnos Bikur Cholim), over 100 volunteers visited seniors weekly. Bnos arranged nursing home visits and mishloach manos deliveries to nursing homes before Purim. Before Pesach, eligible Holocaust survivors received food vouchers.
Middle-school programming was another key focus this year. Over 200 sixth, seventh, and eighth graders signed up for a monthly newsletter and hotline.
Bnos One-on-One has had a highly successful year with increasing interest from schools and the establishment of new branches. This program pairs high school Big Sisters with middle school Little Sisters, who meet for one hour each week to build connections and enjoy activities together. With over 300 Big-Little Sister pairs in Brooklyn, Passaic, Boston, and Lakewood, the program has experienced significant growth. What makes Bnos One-on-One truly special is that the relationships often extend beyond the program’s duration, with Sisters maintaining connections for years. The program has inspired Big Sisters to continue their involvement even when living elsewhere, demonstrating the profound influence it has on both Big and Little Sisters.
Another high-priority agenda item was supporting our dedicated Bnos Leaders. Bnos leaders joined virtually to get chizuk from each other and hear from Mrs. Aviva Feiner. They joined in person for a Monsey event at Jumpz/Thrillz. And they joined again for an end-of-year gala dinner in Lakewood. It is very important that Bnos leaders feel appreciated and understand their impact as part of a big-picture movement.
Most of all, the goal this year was to empower young women to rise higher and use their talents for the klal. Bnos’s Adar contest encouraged the youngest Bnosers to use their talents to help someone in need. Before each yom tov, Bnos held virtual events. Inspiring speakers prepared high school and post-high school girls for the upcoming yom tov. Bnos is most proud of launching ELN this year. ELN is a platform where young leaders of young organizations help each other by sharing contacts, resources, and chizuk.
It’s been a whirlwind! But Bnos is not pausing to catch our breath this summer. Instead, Bnos is cooking up even more innovative programs. Stay tuned for information about what’s new for Bnos 5783!
Do you want to bring the impact of Bnos to your city or neighborhood? We have many resources to support you in opening a new branch. Email Mrs. Chana Baila Hass at [email protected].