Elisheva Kent loves to swim and she was elated when she realized that she could connect it to her bat mitzvah project. Daughter of Meir and Zipora Kent of University City, Elisheva participated in the annual Camp Derech Eretz swim-a-thon.

A program through the Torah Mitzion Kollel, Camp Derech Eretz is the “ultimate Israeli experience here in St. Louis.” Senior staff members are native Hebrew speakers and the camp has a traditional Jewish structure including tefila, learning sessions and kosher food. And, swimming is offered every day.

Participating in the swim-a-thon every year since she started attending this camp, Elisheva worked very hard to get her sponsors. “She called, walked, and biked to get them and did the same to collect the money,” said her mother. “We are so proud of all her hard work that went into the entire job.” Elisheva swam 60 laps and raised $1,330.

The swim-a-thon benefited the Chai Lifeline, an international organization whose focus is to enrich the lives of terminally ill children and children with special needs through the many camps, activities and home care fort he children and their families. A student at Torah Prep Day School, Elisheva felt great pride in her mitzvah project. She is already eager for next summer’s event.