Illustration of volunteers in Santa hats sorting wrapped presents and toys at a toy drive table (Mitzvah Day)

Mitzvah Day

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Mitzvah Day returns for its 20th year, offering a meaningful day of community service and connection. Participants can choose from over 25 volunteer projects, ranging from outdoor park cleanups and tree planting to indoor activities like crafting blankets and preparing meals for those in need. For those unable to attend in person, asynchronous projects allow for participation from home. This event provides a unique opportunity to embody Jewish values of service and tzedakah.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Last year

Tickets

$$

Ages

All ages (with specific age restrictions for certain projects)

Neighborhood

Durham

Food & Drink

Food and drinks can be prepared at home for some projects, and breakfast is served at the Durham Rescue Mission.

Parking

Parking lot is available at the Jewish Community Campus.

Accessibility

The event mentions an 'Accessible Icon' image, suggesting accessibility considerations are made.

Going?

Location

Levin Jewish Community Center · 1937 W. Cornwallis Rd., Durham, NC 27705 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Volunteers, families, community service

Vibe

Community-focused, impactful, giving

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (3/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low (projects proceed in most weather, with potential for rescheduling if unsafe)

Tips & Advice

  • Pre-register for your chosen project by December 20th, as many fill up quickly and some have limited capacity.
  • Check the project details carefully for age restrictions and any associated costs or suggested donations before signing up.
  • Consider purchasing a Mitzvah Day t-shirt by December 2nd to support project costs and wear it on the day of service.
  • If participating in an outdoor project, be prepared for various weather conditions, as events generally proceed rain or shine.
  • Explore the asynchronous project options if you cannot participate on December 25th, allowing you to contribute from home at your convenience.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Purchase a Mitzvah Day t-shirt by December 2nd.
  • Opportunities to celebrate Hanukkah at Mitzvah Day.
  • Asynchronous projects available for at-home participation.

Links & Contact

Run by Jewish for Good

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mitzvah Day?

Mitzvah Day is an annual community-wide day of service, now in its 20th year, where people engage in meaningful volunteer work and donations to reflect Jewish values of service and tzedakah, while also supporting partner organizations.

How do I choose a project and can I do more than one?

With over 25 projects available, review the list for suitability in terms of time, age minimums, and costs. Participants are asked to sign up for only one in-person project due to limited space.

What does 'asynchronous' mean for a project?

Asynchronous projects can be completed on your own time, either before or after December 25th. Detailed instructions, including supply lists and delivery information, will be emailed in mid-December.

What if the project I want is full?

Many projects have limited space and supplies. If your preferred project is full, please select another available option.

Why is there a cost or suggested donation for some projects?

Many projects require volunteers to purchase supplies directly. For projects without direct supply costs, a suggested donation of $18 per person or $36 per family helps defray overall program expenses. These donations are appreciated but optional.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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