In a concerted effort to integrate Jewish history into the identity and curriculum of young Jewish pupils across the former Soviet Union, Darkeinu, the Federation of Jewish Communities (FJC) Jewish learning program, has unveiled an exciting new initiative supported by thought-provoking and interactive materials. These resources aim to delve into the somber aspects of European Jewry’s history, all while emphasizing themes of goodness and light.

Titled “Don Cheshbon,” Darkeinu’s latest undertaking is specifically designed to coincide with the International Holocaust Remembrance Day, observed annually on the 27th of January. The program is poised to guide thousands of Jewish pupils enrolled in formal and informal Jewish educational institutions and programs, fostering a deep understanding of contemporary Jewish history in an experiential and captivating manner.

This new initiative, catering to both educators and families, comprises a script, a set of posters, video clips, and printed supplements available in both Russian and Ukrainian. Additionally, a Hebrew version of the script is provided for the benefit of many teachers and counselors.

“Young children may find it difficult to easily absorb the intensity of Jewish history, especially in Europe during the Holocaust and the last few hundred years,” explains Alex from Darkeinu’s special projects. “It is full of sadness and sorrow. That’s why we created the Don Cheshbon quest. Our goal is to help children, mainly from the FJC ‘Or Avner’ Jewish educational network across the FSU, see the light at the end of the tunnel and channel their pain into deeds of kindness and charity.”