Noah Ruttenberg Experiences Gift of Giving by Raising over $15,000 for his Bar Mitzvah
Joshua Stein and Lisa Splitlog, posted April 25, 2009.
Thirteen-year-old Noah Ruttenberg’s April 25 Bar Mitzvah was unusual: in lieu of gifts, Noah decided to raise money for Music for Autism (M4A). Whereas most teenagers view this Jewish rite of passage as a chance to receive presents, Noah instead wanted to support M4A, a program that he cares strongly about. “When people ask what the best gift was I tell them the joy it gives me to make others happy.”
Noah’s mother, Perri Peltz, is a committed philanthropist, and when she heard about M4A, she became passionate about the cause and decided to get involved. She spoke with Noah about the charity, and Noah decided that he wanted to support the cause with the gifts from his Bar Mitzvah.
Accordino is extremely pleased and honored by Noah’s gift. “Noah is a very inspiring young man, and it was an honor to be able to work with him to help support Music for Autism with his Bar Mitzvah,” he said. “This special day in his Book of Life was not only a milestone for him, but it was also a tremendous day for M4A. We look forward to having Noah remain involved as a member of the M4A family.”
Noah rests assured that his donation of over $15,000 has been put to good use. Recently, Music for Autism debuted its first concert outside of the Northeast in Houston, Texas. The charity will also be expanding to two additional sites in New York City this Fall.
To learn more about how you can support M4A with a gift, please contact Robert Accordino by emailing robert@MusicForAutism.org.
