The leaders of all three main political parties have given their support to Mitzvah Day, a Jewish celebration of good deeds.
More than 25,000 volunteers from over 280 synagogues, charities and schools of all faiths are set to take part in the event this Sunday, November 18.
Participants are encouraged to do a good deed for others this weekend in the seventh year since its inception.
Prime Minister David Cameron last year handed organisers a Big Society Award. He said: “This great idea is joining together communities right across the UK and I would encourage anyone who can to get involved."
Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Democrats, Nick Clegg, added: “Mitzvah Day is nothing short of inspirational. Congratulations on a seventh fantastic year of tree planting, manning soup kitchens, befriending, cleaning up, making, baking and doing – lending a helping hand and raising a smile amongst those who need it most.”
Labour leader Ed Miliband described Mitzvah Day as a fabulous example of the kind of active community spirit across the UK.
He said: “Whether cooking for the homeless, planting a tree, painting a school, helping to clean a cemetery, or making a menorah out of recycled waste, volunteers will be demonstrating their commitment to our shared life together.
“It’s through thousands of small actions that we build our families and our communities. I wish you all the best for Mitzvah Day this year, and I hope the event goes from strength to strength.”
Mitzvah Day founder and director Laura Marks is urging people of all faiths and none to get involved in the hope that this will be the biggest event yet.
There are three main ways to get involved this weekend:
1. Contact the Mitzvah Day office and they will find a project for you to join in your area on Sunday.
2. Get your office to sign up to Give Away Your Lunch on Friday 16th November. They will connect you with a local charity.
3. Pledge your support for Mitzvah Day by tweeting using #MDay2012.
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