Doing good with your stuff: Mission-driven Mitzvah Market comes to The J

  • Market day will be March 29, 1-5 p.m.
  • Donate your new and like-new items in the lobby Feb. 11, 19, 24 (5 a.m.-8 p.m.)
  • In addition to exchanging goods, the market will include a variety of service booths

A headshot of a woman with long hair and wearing a black dress with a gymnasium floor in the background
Zoe Weil is director of special projects in the Levite JCC’s Office of Jewish Life.

This spring, the Levite JCC invites families and neighbors of all ages to take part in a meaningful community exchange at the March 29 Mitzvah Market* — a joyful celebration of giving, sustainability, and Jewish values. Rooted in the Jewish principle of bal tashchit, or the commitment to avoid waste and honor resources, this event will transform gently used items into opportunities for connection and care.

“Mitzvah Market is a simple idea with real impact,” says Zoe Weil, director of special projects. “By reusing and sharing what we already have, we’re supporting one another while reinforcing the values that define our community.”

Earn your mitzvah tickets

Here’s how it works: community members bring high-quality, like-new items to designated drop-off dates (Feb. 11, 19, and 24 — 5 a.m.-8 p.m.), earning mitzvah tickets to spend at the Market itself. There’s no money exchanged — generosity is the currency. Items ranging from home décor and art supplies to children’s clothes and board games are available for ticket redemption, and anyone without donations can earn tickets by bringing non-perishable food to benefit the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama.

But Mitzvah Market goes beyond treasures on tables. Free service booths staffed by volunteers will offer helpful services such as jewelry cleaning, tech tips, mending, and even resume reviews. “We want people to feel welcomed, valued, and equipped — not just today, but every day,” Weil adds.

Whether you come to donate, shop, volunteer, or simply be part of a shared mitzvah-filled day, Mitzvah Market showcases the heart of The J: community care, shared purpose, and joyful generosity. 



*The Hebrew word mitzvah is most commonly translated as meaning a commandment of Jewish law or a meritorious or charitable act.