More Than Just Missions: TTOP Students Say “Thank You” With Heart

At Tomchei Tmimim Ocean Parkway (TTOP), a new mivtza is doing more than checking off boxes—it’s teaching talmidim to notice the people around them, show appreciation, and live like Chassidim even in the little things.

Each day, students are reminded to stop and say two simple words: “Thank you.” Whether it’s after lunch to the kitchen staff who prepare their meals, or to the cleaning staff who keep the Yeshiva spotless, these moments of hakaras hatov are becoming part of the daily routine at TTOP—and it’s making a real difference.

“It feels good to say thank you,” one student shared. “Sometimes I didn’t even notice how much they do for us. Now I make sure to look them in the eye and mean it.”

But the thank yous don’t stop there.

Once a week, as part of the mivtza, talmidim are encouraged to call a Bubby or Zaidy. Some share a vort. Some ask how their grandparents are doing. Others just say, “I was thinking of you.” A few boys even admitted it was the first time they called on their own—but the happiness in their grandparents’ voices made it unforgettable.

“These calls are so simple, but so powerful,” said one staff member. “It’s a chance to bring a little warmth and light into someone’s day—and to remind our students that being a Chossid includes making others feel loved.”

A highlight is the “Sever Panim Yafos” initiative, where a different staff member is given cards each day to hand out when they see students showing warmth and friendliness to others. It’s helping build a Yeshiva atmosphere where smiles are becoming just as normal as schedules. Talmidim then place those cards into a large ‘Rebbe gift box’ outside the building for thousands of Ocean Parkway commuters to see.

While the mivtza includes other beautiful habits—making brachos with kavanah, watching a Rebbe video, saying Shema from a Siddur, and more—it’s the personal touches that have everyone talking.

“This mivtza isn’t loud or flashy,” said a member of hanhala. “It’s quiet acts of care. It’s showing kavod to those who serve us, and remembering the people who raised us. That’s what makes it special.”

As the mivtza continues, the tone at TTOP is clear: every student matters, every act of kindness counts, and every thank you makes the Rebbe proud.