My favorite thing about being Jewish is the community. I love being in a Jewish community because I have made so many good friends through Hebrew school and other Jewish activities. I also like how at school events though there aren’t that many of us, there are some Jewish kids in my grade. To me, becoming a Bat Mitzvah means becoming a Jewish adult and being more responsible for myself. In Sheva, I have learned that I work best in groups – even if it isn’t with my best of friends.

My mitzvah project was feeding the homeless and those in need. I chose to feed people because I love to cook, I love seeing other people happy, and I like helping people face to face. I worked at the Ronald McDonald House, The Village Temple soup kitchen, and the HUC Soup Kitchen. I learned that everyone is entitled to their own preferences no matter their circumstances. I plan to keep coming to services, to go to Hebrew High, and to become a madricha on Sundays to keep up with learning about Judaism.
Notes of congratulations can be sent to Ayla’s parents, Amy and Marc Andrews.