Count Me In
Count Me In was started in 2005 by Eric Berdinis and Ben Rice, two teenagers entering high school. They wanted to be involved in a community service project throughout their high school years to make a difference in other people’s lives.
Volunteer for this fantastic program!
Michelle has been the Program Director since 2011 and continues in the position today. You can reach out directly to Michelle, or email Count Me In at countmeinhouston@gmail.com or visit the website www.countmeininc.org.
Brightening the lives of families and putting smiles on faces since 2005
The Mission of Count Me In, Inc. is to unite the community to brighten the lives of Jews of all ages by providing gifts and ritual items during the Hanukkah season.
As freshmen entering high school friends Eric Berdinis and Ben Rice wanted to be involved in a community service project together throughout their high school years to make a difference in other people’s lives.
The boys came up with the idea of donating Hanukkah gifts because it had never been done before in the greater Houston area. They wished that all children, regardless of their family’s financial situation, could experience the excitement they felt as kids lighting the menorah and receiving gifts for Hanukkah. Their strong beliefs in the Jewish value of tzedakah fueled the inception and formation of Count Me In, Inc.
In 2017 we served over 400 clients including families, home-bound senior citizens, adults with mental disabilities at the Richmond State School, and almost 60 youth living in Baton Rouge who were affected by the flooding in the previous storm.
In 2018 we extended our service to reach families in and around Houston who were impacted by Hurricane Harvey.
In 2019 services were provided to over 130 families (325 children) and 40 homebound senior citizens.
Since 2005, Count Me In has undergone significant changes. Count Me In is now a program of Lonestar Region BBYO to encourage teen community service and involvement in the Jewish community.
As a fully incorporated non-profit organization, it serves more than just children and teens during the holiday season.
The recipient base has multiplied to include hundreds of adults and senior citizens undergoing hospital treatment or residing in assisted living facilities.
Count Me In has also added a “family bag” to each family’s group of gift bags to celebrate the holiday in more ways than just gift-giving.
Each “family bag” includes all Hanukkah necessities: a prayer sheet, a menorah, a full set of candles, dreidels, chocolate gelt, and potato latke mix.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the ever-increasing number of generous donors and volunteers.
Count Me In is always looking for new ways to serve the community and appreciates all feedback and ideas from its donors and recipients.
Other Services
Online Classes
Show up in your PJ’s or send your kid in theirs! Learn a new craft and We supply all you need!
Events & Parties
Everyone deserves a little fun! Grab your friends and get ready for a creative good time!
Creative Services
Work with our team design an awesome party activity just for you! We offer a diverse selection!
Get On My List For Updates & Event Info!
Michelle offers in-person camps and art experiences, she also hosts live art events and can bring an art experience to your location. Her blogs give you the inside tips and fun stories of being creative every day with your kids, but also just for you!
Every Family Needs Creativity!
Let’s get creative together, relieve stress, and ignite the imagination! Enjoy creativity with your kids or on your own! In-person, online or with wine!