Frequently Asked Questions

What is Be the Light?

Be the Light is a Glen Eira community campaign celebrating kindness, solidarity and hope. Inspired by the light of Hanukkah, we're inviting 180 people to pledge one act of kindness that strengthens our community and supports one another.

Why 180 pledges?

The number 18 holds special significance in Jewish tradition, representing life and good fortune. 180 — ten times 18 — is our way of multiplying that spirit of hope across the whole Glen Eira community.

Who can participate?

Anyone who lives, works or studies in Glen Eira is welcome to take part. This campaign is open to the whole community.

Is this campaign only for Jewish people?

Not at all. Be the Light is a community-wide campaign. The inspiration comes from Hanukkah, but the invitation is for everyone — regardless of background, faith or culture.

Why do we display a flame in our window?

During Hanukkah, many Jewish families place a menorah in a window or doorway so its light can be seen from outside. This is a long-standing tradition that celebrates hope, resilience and the triumph of light over darkness.

The Be the Light window flame is not a religious symbol or a replacement for a menorah. Instead, it is a simple community symbol of friendship and solidarity. By displaying it during Hanukkah, participants show that they stand alongside their Jewish neighbours and support a community where kindness, respect and inclusion shine brightly.

Each window flame also represents a personal pledge to perform an act of kindness, helping to spread light throughout Glen Eira in both a symbolic and practical way.

What kinds of pledges can I make?

Any act of kindness that supports a neighbour or strengthens the community. It could be as simple as checking in on someone, donating to a local cause, volunteering your time, or helping a stranger.

How can I find opportunities to help in Glen Eira?

There are many ways to make a difference in our community. Throughout the campaign, we'll share opportunities to volunteer, support local charities, participate in community events and help neighbours in need. You can also create your own act of kindness, whether it's checking in on an elderly neighbour, helping someone with their shopping, or supporting a local community group.

If you opt in to receive updates when you make your pledge, we'll email you with opportunities to get involved during the lead up to and throughout Hanukkah.

Can my organisation get involved?

Absolutely. We are inviting charities, community groups, schools, synagogues, sporting clubs and other local organisations to be part of Be the Light.

If your organisation is running a volunteer activity, community event or service project during the lead-up to or throughout Hanukkah, we'd love to help promote opportunities for people to get involved. Together, we can make it easier for our community to turn their pledge into action.

Please contact us if you'd like your opportunity featured on our website or shared through our campaign communications at contact@bethelight180.org.

How do I collect my window flame?

In the lead up to Hanukkah, we'll contact you with details about how to receive your paper flame. Depending on your location and availability, flames may be available for collection from community locations or delivered by volunteers and partners.

Do you accept donations?

No. Be the Light does not accept financial donations.

The purpose of this campaign is to encourage acts of kindness and support for organisations already doing incredible work in our community. If you would like to give, we encourage you to donate directly to a local charity or cause that is meaningful to you.

If you are a business, organisation or individual who would like to support the campaign by assisting with printing, promotion or other in-kind contributions, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch via email.