Orli Hahn | Congregation Shaare Emeth

Ladue Middle School student, Orli Hahn, wanted to give kids a happy birthday and make their day special. So for her mitzvah project, she decided to collect new toys and cash donations for Birthday Joy, a local non-profit organization that provides birthday gifts to children who are in need.

“I chose to help kids who don’t have as much as me feel special on their birthday,” explained Orli, the daughter of Abby and Eran Hahn of Frontenac. “I really enjoy my birthday. I love the cake, the party and getting presents from family and friends. I wanted to share part of this experience with kids that are not as fortunate as me.”

Orli explained that she had an open house on a Sunday at Birthday Joy where she invited family and friends to drop off their donations and see first hand what Birthday Joy does. 

Guests were invited by an evite invitation and attendees mingled, shared cupcakes and had hot chocolate. Those who donated also got to add their name to the donor wall of fame at Birthday Joy. 

“Another exciting part to my project was that Channel 5 News came to cover the event and I was on the evening news,” Orli added. “It was exciting that my event grabbed the attention of the media and helped spread awareness about Birthday Joy to the greater St. Louis community. I collected around 125 new toys and nearly $800 in cash donations.”  

Orli also volunteers at Birthday Joy, sorting and stocking inventory and putting together birthday gifts for children of all ages. 

“I feel happy and proud to know that I have helped make birthdays special for other kids,” she said.  

If you are interested in donating or volunteering at Birthday Joy, go to www.birthdayjoy.org for more information.