A little over a year ago I was asked an extremely difficult question. My mother asked what I wanted to do for my Bat Mitzvah Project, and I was stumped for an answer. Charity has been a part of my life since I was little, and trying to narrow my options into only one final choice was difficult.

I knew that I needed to do some brainstorming. After sitting down for a while, I had an epiphany! I was going to combine my two great loves- literature and science. I talked to everyone I knew, but none of the projects they suggested seemed just right. The easiest one was making time to read to sick children, but I wanted to do something more significant and long-lasting than that. Finally, two members of my synagogue told me about a hospital they were familiar with that needed help (Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel). I got contact information and set to work.

I learned the hospital was in need of a library cart to help the librarians do their job, and upon hearing this I knew it was the project for me. I decided I would do a read-a-thon with the children at my Hebrew school and send letters asking my family and friends for donations. Almost immediately responses started coming in, and I felt so inspired that people cared so much. I loved the idea that all of these children were reading books to raise money for others to follow suit.

I needed to raise $2,500 to build the cart. Initially, it seemed impossible, but as the money began to come in, my confidence swelled. I was determined to see that the children would not be let down! My mother told me what a lofty goal this was, one probably unachievable, but once I began the venture, I knew I couldn't stop. Tani Schwartz, my mentor from the New York hospital office sent me stories and pictures of the kids that kept me moving forward.

Soon my read-a-thon was over and I counted up my total: I had exceeded my goal and raised over $3,000! I was so ecstatic.

I now realize that if I had done this only for the sake of having a project to do, I would have gotten very little or nothing out of the experience. I am glad I chose something so close to my heart. I put so much effort into this project and to see the final result was astounding.            

Someday I hope to go to Israel and see what I have done at the hospital, but until then I will have to be satisfied with the stories and pictures that Tani sends to me. I can reminisce in my experiences and grow emotionally from them. I have to admit that I'm glad I did it.

My advice to anyone who wants to do a project is to pick something you love to do. If you like animals and being outside, combine those interests and you could walk dogs for senior citizens. Or, if you love playing with little kids and enjoy music, maybe volunteer to help teach a music class to preschoolers. Don't do something just because it is easy, do it because it moves you.

If you want to help at Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel write Medical Development for Israel at mitzvah@mdinyc.org , or call: 212-759-3370.

Emma S. is a 13 year-old girl who resides in New Jersey with her parents and sister. She enjoys reading, listening to music, and writing, especially poetry.