My favorite thing about being Jewish is the food. I love when my mom cooks hamentaschen at Purim and latkes at Hanukkah. Becoming a Bat Mitzvah means that I have more responsibilities. I have to take on new tasks and try new things. While I was preparing for my Bat Mitzvah, I have learned that it takes time and hard work to learn the blessings and the Torah portion. I plan to keep learning about Judaism and going to services on holidays.

For my mitzvah project I volunteered at Loaves and Fishes. People and organizations donate food to give to the homeless. I helped organize the food onto shelves. Then, I packed food into paper bags for those who need the food. It felt good volunteering at Loaves and Fishes because I got to help people in need. I also feel fortunate for what I have, feel responsible to help others.

Ella is the daughter of Melanie and Greg Mellone. She has an older brother, Josh. Send notes of congratulations.