Meet Lucas P., a high school freshman from Virginia, whose passion for martial arts and helping others brought him to Asheville over spring break to volunteer with NECHAMA.
Currently a freshman at Justice High School in Falls Church, Virginia, Lucas spends much of his free time (four days a week!) training in mixed martial arts. His aunt, who is the Executive Director of Congregation Beth Israel in Asheville, told his family about NECHAMA and the ongoing need for volunteers in the area. Lucas’s family travelled to Asheville over his spring break, and while the family planned to only volunteer for one day, Lucas enjoyed the experience so much, he decided to stay and volunteer for an entire week!
Lucas says that the main goals of his primary martial art, Hapmudo, are health, happiness and harmony- and to spread world peace. He said that volunteering with NECHAMA connected with those values for him, and also with the Jewish value of helping people in general. One of the sites Lucas worked at made a particular impact on him because the homeowners are members of his aunt’s synagogue. Another thing that really stood out to Lucas was the people he met volunteering: “I got to meet amazing people. We really bonded and they made the whole experience even more special.” Of course, he also spoke very highly of NECHAMA’s furry mascot, Oba!
To others thinking about volunteering, Lucas offers simple advice: “If you get the chance to help someone or your community, you should take it and enjoy it to the fullest.”
Join us and make an impact!