For many teenagers, charitable giving and volunteer work are just another extracurricular activity. But for Sarah Berger, a student at SAR High School, her experience with Migdal Ohr became a deeply personal mission that transformed her perspective on giving, resilience, and the power of community.

Sarah’s involvement with Migdal Ohr began when a friend recommended she read “Living Legend”, a biography about the life and mission of our founder, Rabbi Grossman. Inspired by his dedication to uplifting orphaned and underprivileged children in Israel, Sarah wanted to contribute. Her first step was making a donation, but she wanted to see the impact firsthand. When she had the opportunity to visit Israel, Migdal Ohr was on the top of her list!

During her visit, Sarah found herself deeply moved by the experience of stepping into Rebbetzin Grossman’s Bayit Yehudit bridal salon. “It was absolutely gorgeous,” she recalled, “but more than that, it was about ensuring that every bride, no matter her background, felt special on one of the most important days of her life.” The visit underscored that Migdal Ohr’s work extends far beyond just caring for children—it prepares them for life, giving them the tools and confidence to break the cycle of poverty and start their own families.

Meeting the children of Migdal Ohr put everything into perspective for Sarah. “Reading about poverty is one thing, but looking into the eyes of a child who has lived through it is entirely different,” she said. “These encounters transformed the statistics into real kids with hopes, dreams, and an unwavering spirit. Seeing their resilience reinforced her belief in the importance of organizations like Migdal Ohr that provide stability, love, and opportunity for a life better than the one a child was born into.

One of the most eye-opening realizations for Sarah was understanding the common misconceptions people have about orphaned and at-risk children. “People often think these kids are defined by their circumstances,” she said, “but they are just like any other kids—with dreams, talents, and limitless potential if given the right support.” Her visit reinforced the idea that children are not simply in need of charity but in need of opportunity, mentorship, and encouragement.

What stood out most to Sarah was the comprehensive support Migdal Ohr provides. “They don’t just cover the bare necessities,” she explained. “Every detail is carefully thought out—from education to extracurricular activities—to ensure that each child grows into a confident, capable individual.” This holistic approach ensures that children feel special and empowered to contribute to the world in meaningful ways.

Sarah left Migdal Ohr determined to share what she had seen and experienced. She recommended “Living Legend to friends, spoke passionately about her trip, and encouraged others to learn more. With plans to spend the next year in seminary, she is already organizing a visit to Migdal Ohr for her classmates. “I want them to see for themselves how powerful this place is,” she said.

Sarah believes that supporting underprivileged children is something everyone can do. “Even small efforts—donating, volunteering, or just spreading awareness—can make a huge impact,” she shared. She encourages others to take some of the blessings they’ve received and use them to uplift those in need, knowing that even the smallest act of kindness can change a life.

For anyone unsure about visiting Migdal Ohr, Sarah has one piece of advice: “You can’t truly understand its magic until you experience it firsthand. The environment is filled with warmth, hope, and a sense of belonging.” Her journey, which began with a book recommendation, has turned into a lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of children who need it most.