Voluntarias Judeo Mexicanas (VJM) believes in contributing to the wider community of Mexico through hospital visits, school outreach, mural-building, and community solidarity events.

For Voluntarias Judeo Mexicanas, the work of repairing the world begins with a debt of gratitude. The group of Jewish Mexican women volunteers, based in Mexico City, traces its motivation back to a specific historical moment: the moment Mexico opened its doors to their grandparents fleeing Europe in times of uncertainty. Today, that history shapes everything the organization does. Each hospital visit, school outreach program, and community partnership is framed not simply as charity, but as repayment – a way of honoring the country that gave their families refuge by giving back to Mexican society in turn.

VJM became one of two Mexico affiliates of ICJW in 2013, and continues to work closely with local educational and healthcare organizations to support Mexican families with low incomes. Their work is rooted in the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam – the responsibility to repair and improve the world through concrete, meaningful action. Their President is Celina Laniado, and their Treasurer is the immediate Past President of ICJW, Lilian Grinberg.

Restoring Dignity in Hospitals & Schools

Much of VJM’s work happens quietly, at hospital bedsides. Volunteers have spent the semester accompanying patients and their families through difficult moments, offering not only material assistance but emotional support and simple human connection. One recent case stands out: the donation of a custom-made artificial eye to a young man in rehabilitation, restoring something that went beyond physical function. For the volunteers, it was a reminder that even a single, targeted act of generosity can return dignity, hope, and a sense of new possibility to someone’s life.

The volunteers also turned their attention to special education schools, visiting children and offering their time, care, and warmth. The children’s resilience and capacity for inclusion left as much of an impression on the volunteers as the visits themselves did on the students.

Honoring Those Who Serve

In a regular gesture of public thanks, VJM visits the firefighters of Huixquilucan, presenting them with small tokens of appreciation for their tireless service to their community. These annual visits on “Firefighters’ Day” are important moments of recognition for people who risk their lives daily on behalf of others, and a way of extending the organization’s ethic of gratitude outward, toward another group devoted to service.

A Mural Bridging Two Cultures

Perhaps the most visible project of 2026 was a mural created in partnership with the Embassy of Israel in Mexico, symbolizing the unity between the two countries and cultures.

The project brought together an unusual mix of participants: VJM volunteers, embassy staff, and young people in rehabilitation programs, including some facing addiction issues. The experience offered these young participants something beyond an art project – a chance at integration, dialogue, and a temporary but meaningful sense of belonging to something positive, allowing them to step back from their struggles and reconnect with their own potential.

The mural built on an earlier collaboration between VJM and the Embassy of Israel, which has also supported a local primary school by helping establish and update its computer center, giving Mexican students access to technology that strengthens their education and broadens their opportunities in an increasingly digital world.

Standing in Solidarity

Alongside its service work in Mexico, VJM has reaffirmed its support and solidarity with Israel during a challenging time, standing firm in its values and identity as a Jewish organization. The group also remains an active participant in the Federación Femenina, supporting its events and contributing through donations. This work strengthens the broader community bonds that VJM relies on for its other initiatives.

A Way of Life, Not Just a Concept

Across hospitals, schools, fire stations, and a shared mural wall, VJM consistently shows up to help people outside their own community. As Lilian Grinberg explains, “Tikkun Olam is not just a concept but a way of life – the force that inspires its volunteers to act, to commit, and to give.” Voluntarias Judeo Mexicanas describes its mission as continuing to work with heart devoted to Mexico, honoring its roots, and building, through every act, a more compassionate, just, and hopeful world.