B N A I Z I O N F O U N D AT I O N
OVER A HUNDRED YEARS OF MAKING A DIFFERENCE
SUMMER 2017 • VOL. 100 • NO. 7
AHAVA VILLAGE Making Connections Around the World Page 24
MA’ALEH ADUMIM Welcomes Foreign Diplomats Page 26
In this Issue NATIONAL
4 Spring Greetings A message from Stephen Savitsky, President
5 The Bnai Zion Family A message from Cheryl Bier, Executive VP
6 Bnai Zion Represented at Conference of Presidents
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7 Annual Gathering of Remembrance/
Holocaust Remembrance Day at the UN
9 George and Irina Schaeffer Honored 10 With Their Own Eyes 11 Salute to Labor Gala 12 A Lasting Home in Israel Bnai Zion Dedicates Park in Honor of Mel Parness
13 Israel Trips
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NORTHEAST REGION
14 New Center for Faith and Community Partnerships
15 Yom to Yom TEXAS REGION
16 Spring Reception 18 Kosher Chili Cook-Off
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FLORIDA REGION
19 Celebration of Lights 20 UPCOMING EVENTS BNAI ZION PROJECTS
22 Bnai Zion Medical Center
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Reflexology for Maternity and Obstetrics Division
24 Ahava Village International Connections at Ahava
26 Ma’aleh Adumim Welcomes UN Ambassadors
28 David Yellin Takes Training to a New Level
30 Israel’s Elwyn Construction of the George and Irina Schaeffer Cultural Center Provides New Opportunities
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BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
CONTACT&CONNECT Summer 2017 • VOL. 100 • NO. 7 ISSN: 0884-5565
NATIONAL OFFICE 1430 Broadway, Suite 1804 New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212 725 1211 Fax: 212 684 6327
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Cheryl Bier ASSOCIATE EDITOR Brooke-Lynn Danoff
NORTHEAST REGION 1430 Broadway, Suite 1804 New York, NY 10018 Phone: 212 725 1211 nyregion@bnaizion.org
TEXAS REGION 7920 Belt Line Road #695 Dallas, Texas 75254 Phone: 972 918 9200 texasregion@bnaizion.org
SOUTHEAST REGION 1835 E. Hallandale Blvd. #892 Hallandale, FL 33009 Phone: 800 564 6399 seregion@bnaizion.org
WESTERN REGION 1171 South Robertson Blvd., #109 Los Angeles, CA 90035 Phone: 800 564 6399 westernregion@bnaizion.org
BUSINESS MANAGER Cheryl Bier ART DIRECTOR Shelly Kiderman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Cheryl Bier Steve Savitsky Maura Schreier-Fleming Bari Shaffran Shoshana Akabas CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Sheinson Associates, LLC Arthur Piccolo Perry Bindelglass Pink Light Images Avi Hayun Samantha Acampora Axel Koester CIRCULATION MANAGER Stephanie Solorzano PUBLISHED BY BNAI ZION FOUNDATION Annual Subscription: $2 members • $5 non members
DID YOU KNOW? Bnai Zion introduced American Red Magen David for Israel, an organization in the U.S. that funds ambulances and healthcare equipment for Magen David Adom, Israel’s pre-eminent emergency ambulance service.
Bnai Zion Foundation 1430 Broadway, suite 1804 New York, NY 10018 phone 212 725 1211 fax 212 684 6327 bnaizion.org The Bnai Zion Foundation, Inc. is a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Please consult your tax advisor regarding specific questions about your deductions.
BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
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A message from Stephen Savitsky, President
SPRING GREETINGS E
very year when we celebrate Yom Yerushalayim, it is a special day for the Jewish community and for me personally. This year is even more special because we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem, which is a most significant event. Why is it that all of us – Jews and non-Jews – feel a special attachment to the city of Jerusalem?
The city of Jerusalem has been the capital of the Jewish nation since the time of King David. His son, King Solomon, built the first temple, and except for the seventy years when we were expelled under the Babylonian Empire, the temple and Jerusalem were the center of the Jewish people for almost a thousand years. You can walk the ancient steps and almost feel as if you are living thousands of years ago. Those very steps were walked by Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They were walked by millions of people to celebrate the holidays. Jerusalem is the city of many religions, and only under the care of the Israeli government is it possible for all religions to have access to their places of worship. Fifty years is not a very long time, but for the Jewish people it is a monumental achievement. We pray for Jerusalem, we fast for Jerusalem, we think about Jerusalem, and we end our services on Yom Kippur, the holiest day, with the saying “Next Year in Jerusalem”. We at Bnai Zion are so proud of all of our achievements, not just for the city of Jerusalem but also for Israel and all the Jewish people. For over a century, we have been consistent in our demonstration of love and devotion for Zion. That commitment today is stronger than ever. Our projects are bigger and more impactful than they have ever been. There is a lot to be proud of in Bnai Zion, but our work is just beginning. We pledge to continue to provide programs in Israel that will help the poor, the disabled, the downtrodden, and the abused. We’ve celebrated Jerusalem for fifty years and Bnai Zion for over 100 years. May it be the will of G-d that Bnai Zion continue to grow and prosper in its quest to unite all people of faith who are lovers of Jerusalem and of Zion.
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BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
April 2018 Mission to Poland & Israel CELEBRATING ISRAEL’S 70TH BIRTHDAY AND BNAI ZION’S 110TH ANNIVERSARY In April 2018, in honor of Bnai Zion’s 110th Birthday, we will be running a mission to Israel. The mission will start in Poland (three of our projects assist Holocaust survivors) and then continue on to Israel, where we will be celebrating Israel’s 70th birthday. We will visit many projects, including: Kfar Bnai Zion (an artist colony started by BZ), Beit Halochem (rehab and recreation services for disabled war veterans and their families), Museum of the Jewish People (where Bnai Zion endowed the auditorium), and many other sites. For more information, please contact the Bnai Zion office.
A message from Cheryl Bier, Executive VP & National Secretary
The Bnai Zion Family
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ach time I visit Israel, I am filled with awe at how amazing our family is. I am not referring to my own blood relatives, but rather our partners in Israel. Their dedication to our shared mission of public service inspires each of us at Bnai Zion. Let me highlight a few members of this extended family whose commitment to Bnai Zion’s projects is an example of sacrifice and devotion. Yoav Apelboim – For over thirty-five years, as the Executive Director of Ahava Village for Children & Youth, Yoav has helped heal the shattered lives of hundreds of neglected children. Ahava provides a functioning family environment within the context of specialized, one-on-one treatment. Yoav is an internationally respected educator, and we are so privileged that his caring vision touches every child. David B. Marcu – Since making Aliyah in 1984, David has been at the forefront of enabling Israelis with mental and physical disabilities to fulfill their greatest personal potentials. As the CEO of Israel Elwyn, for nearly twenty-five years David has made the organization Israel’s leader in rehabilitation, early intervention, supported living, vocational training, employment services for adults, and innovative programs for seniors. Zemira R. Mevarech – Zemira holds a PhD from University of Chicago in Measurement, Evaluation, and Statistics Analysis in Education. She was the Dean of the Bar-Ilan University’s School of Education and served as the Chief Scientist of the Israeli Ministry of Education. As one of the most distinguished Education Professors in Israel, Zemira now serves as the president of the David Yellin Academic College of
formed with incredible foresight and dedication. Bnai Zion Medical Center has earned international accolades and is regularly recognized as one of Israel’s most outstanding hospitals. A highlight of one of my recent visits was the dedication of the Mel Parness Park at Ma’aleh Adumim with our President Steve Savitsky and Mayor Benny Kashriel, to name just a few. The dedication was an inspirational celebration of Mel’s life and a remembrance of the profound love and enthusiasm that he had for Israel.
“It is our staff and volunteers in Israel that turn our supporters’ dollars into cutting-edge medical care, life-saving surgeries, and transformative therapies for children, adults, and seniors.” Education. We couldn’t be happier to have Zemira on our family tree. Benny Kashriel – If there is a city in Israel whose welfare bears a footprint of just one man, it is Ma’ale Adumim. Benny has been credited with leading this vibrant community of over 40,000 through a period of unprecedented growth. The city today boasts over 250 factories. It is at the forefront of Israeli high-tech, consumer, and industrial manufacturing and continues to grow and attract new families. Dr. Amnon Rofe – After graduating from the Technion and practicing as a highly regarded physician specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Rofe took on the challenge of leading the Bnai Zion Medical Center, a task he has per-
Last month, I was honored to join our Chairman George Schaeffer and his daughter, Nicole Schaeffer, in dedicating the George and Irina Schaeffer Cultural Center at Israel Elwyn and a new Synagogue in Ma’ale Adumim. George and Irina’s philanthropy, compassion, and unwavering support of Bnai Zion and Israel have become legendary. These are just a few anecdotes about members of our family who are devoted to the cause that has driven Bnai Zion’s storied 109-year history of nurturing humanitarian projects and keeping the heart and spirit of Israel alive and well. After all, it is our staff and volunteers in Israel that turn our supporters’ dollars into cutting-edge medical care and transformative therapies for children, adults, and seniors. It is your generosity that enables us to see our work reach and heal many more people in need. I look forward to speaking personally to those of you that are interested in getting more involved in Bnai Zion’s work. A big thank you to each and every one of you for your continued support!
BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
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National
Bnai Zion Represented at
CONFERENCE OF PRESIDENTS D
uring President’s Week, Steve Savitsky, Cheryl Bier, and national board member Josh Katzen represented Bnai Zion in Israel at the Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations. For many years, Bnai Zion has been a member of this prestigious organization — the official spokespeople for foreign policy, representing all major organizations in Washington and around the world.
After the conference, Steve, Cheryl, and Josh were joined by board members Shelley Kilcoyne and Sheryl Safran for a special mission to visit the Bnai Zion’s projects. They had a chance to meet with Dr. Amnon Rofe, the CEO of the Bnai Zion Medical Center, which was voted the best medium-sized hospital in all of Israel. From there, they went to the Ahava Village for Children & Youth where they saw the emergency shelter that has been built to protect the young boys and girls who have to be removed from their homes for safety reasons. Last but not least, they visited the David Yellin Academic College of Education, a college which is known as the official teacher certification university in Israel.
Stephen Greenberg, Reuven Rivlin, and Malcolm Hoenlein
Dr. Kafka, Steve Savitsky, Sheryl Safran, and Dr. Riskin
Josh Katzen, Sheryl Safran, Shelley Kilcoyne, Steve Savitsky, Cheryl Bier, and Yoav Apelboim
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BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
Cheryl Bier, Steve Savitsky, Dr. Amnon Rofe, Dr. Mickey Kafka, Sheryl Safran, Shelley Kilcoyne, and Josh Katzen
National
Annual Gathering of Remembrance
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n April 23rd in New York, Bnai Zion co-sponsored the Annual Gathering of Remembrance, bringing together more than 2,000 people, including Holocaust survivors and their families and community leaders. The event was presented by the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust. The intergenerational candle-lighting ceremony at Temple Emanu-El allowed 36 female Holocaust survivors to light candles accompanied by their great-grandchildren, representing four generations, symbolically passing the torch of remembrance. Six survivors from Hungary and Poland lit candles surrounded by their families, representing the renewal of Jewish life after the Holocaust.
The afternoon program featured Harry Wittlin sharing his story of survival, several musical selections, and remarks by dignitaries including Ambassador Dani Dayan,
Rose Feigenbaum, one of the 36 Memorial Candlelighters, with her grandson and great-granddaughter. Consul General of Israel in New York; U.S. Senator Charles Schumer; Bruce Ratner, Chairman, Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust; and Michael Glickman, President & CEO, Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust
Holocaust Remembrance Day at the UN
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his past January, the Bnai Zion Foundation was honored to be among a dozen Jewish organizations selected as guests of the Israeli Mission to the United Nations as the United Nations marked international Holocaust Remembrance Day. The delegation of Bnai Zion Foundation leaders was led by Executive Vice President, Cheryl Bier. The newly inaugurated United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, spoke of the need to abolish anti-Semitism and hate throughout the world. His remarks were echoed by the Israeli ambassador to the United Nations, Ambassador Danny Danon. The main speaker was world renowned holocaust survivor and Yediot Ahronot commentator, Noah Klieger, who was escorted onto the General Assembly stage by his grandson, who serves as a marine in the Israeli Defense Force (IDF). The sight of an IDF marine in uniform pushing his Grandfather, who survived the Holocaust and dedicated his life to teaching, moved the entire audience and brought a renewed sense of importance for the topic of Holocaust remembrance, specifically within the United Nations.
“The event was attended by over a thousand diplomats, United Nations dignitaries, as well as leaders within the American and global Jewish community.” BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
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National
Sheryl Safran
A Shelley Kilcoyne AHAVA SPECIAL GIFT RECIPIENT: SHIRA
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hira is a 17-½-year-old girl who was born in Israel. She arrived in Ahava seven years ago with her younger sister, and her brother joining them four years later. Her parents were divorced and her young mother was unable to take care of them. Having come from a violent neighborhood, Shira arrived at Ahava with violent tendencies, was extremely rude, and found it difficult to adjust to her new situation. Yet, after working with the wonderful forms of therapy provided by Ahava and living with her loving family group, she was able to open up, grow more confident, become empowered, and realize her own strengths.
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lthough I have had some awareness of the programs supported by Bnai Zion, this was my first opportunity to view the many Israel projects in person: from a park dedication at Ma’aleh Adumim and a tour of the Bnai Zion Medical Center, to a film summarizing the goals and philosophy of Israel Elwyn. I was most impressed however, by my visit to the Ahava Village and our meeting with Yoav Apelboim. The task that has been undertaken by Yoav and his staff seems almost impossible. To nurture children who have come from the most horrific of circumstances and help them develop into functioning and productive members of the community requires (to quote Yoav) not only skill but passion for the task. This passion was so evident and so inspiring when Yoav described the Ahava community.
Josh Katzen
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Through her stay at Ahava, Shira has come out of her shell and has become a valuable part of the community. She loves to sing and takes part in an Ahava singing group. She also plays the piano and guitar, has advanced verbal skills, and loves to write. She is now happy and willing to help her friends with their studies, especially in humanities.
isiting Bnai Zion Medical Center in Haifa, I saw a state-of-the-art hospital with waiting rooms that looked like complete cross sections of the Israeli population. Orthodox and secular Jews, Arabs, all people were being treated equally.
Shira is doing very well in her studies at the 11th grade and is working toward a full matriculation certificate in psychology and sociology. She already knows she wants to study psychology after the army, and she even dreams about running Ahava in the future.
The most disconcerting thing about the hospital — indeed, the most shocking thing — was how exposed it is to rocket fire from Lebanon. Standing on the deck outside the director’s office, we had a clear view of the mountains of Lebanon some kilometers away. And we knew that Hezbollah had just as clear a view of us. And what more attractive target to an enemy that goes out of its way to injure civilians than a hospital?
In recognition of her amazing progress as an individual and as a member of the Ahava community, Shira has been chosen to receive a special gift thanks to the Ignal Endowment set up by Shelley Kilcoyne.
It struck me as absolutely imperative that the hospital construct underground safe rooms where patients can be protected in case of attack and where medical services can continue to be provided, regardless of incoming missiles.
BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
National
George and Irina Schaeffer Honored with the Prestigious HeChaver Award
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n March 26th, the Beverly Hills Synagogue honored George & Irina Schaeffer with the prestigious HeChaver Award at their annual fundraiser, which took place at the Beverly Hills Hotel. The Schaeffers generously committed to a matching donation of one million dollars, enabling the synagogue to repay a two million dollar mortgage.
“George and Irina Schaeffer are generosity personified.” The event featured end-to-end entertainment, with the incredible mentalist, Oz Pearlman, captivating the audience and Hollywood star turned American Songbook crooner, Robert Davi, concluding the evening with rousing Sinatra standards. Rabbi Pini Dunner, Senior Rabbi at Beverly Hills Synagogue, said, “George and Irina Schaeffer are generosity personified, as their manifold charitable activities can testify, and they are such deserving honorees.”
Dr. Amnon Rofe, Irina Schaeffer, Cheryl Bier, and George Schaeffer
Dr. Amnon Rofe, George Schaeffer, Irina Schaeffer, and Hillel Kellerman
BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
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WITH THEIR OWN EYES Salute to Labor Honorees Visit Bnai Zion Projects in Israel By: Ted Kirsch
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s Honorary Chair of the Salute to Labor dinner honoring Tefere Gebre, Executive Vice President of the AFL-CIO and Ed McElroy, President Emeritus, American Federation of Teachers, I was pleased to lead a delegation to Israel with our honorees. The objective of this mission was to acquaint our honorees with the goals of Bnai Zion in Israel. The proceeds of the dinner will benefit two of our projects, the David Yellin College and Ahava Village. At the David Yellin College, I saw the sparkle in the eyes of Tefere as he spoke in his native tongue with students from Ethiopia. These students will become teachers who help their community members make the adjustments necessary to live in Israel.
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A visit to Ahava Village should be on everyone’s itinerary when they visit Israel. A haven for children who have been abused, it provides a normal family setting to help them become successful adults when they leave at age eighteen.
Edward McElroy and Tefere Gebre
“These students will become teachers who help their community members make the adjustments necessary to live in Israel.”
BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
Ed was amazed by the children’s performance for the delegation. He was also impressed with his conversation with the Director, Yoav Apelboim, a grandfather figure for almost two hundred and fifty residents. In another religion, Yoav would be called a Saint. Bnai Zion’s funds are used to help create the type of environment we want for our children and grandchildren.
National
Gala
SALUTE TO LABOR
Dr. Lorretta Johnson and Ted Kirsch
Bnai Zion Honors Tefere Gebre and Edward McElroy
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he Bnai Zion Foundation continued its long history of honoring distinguished leaders of organized labor when it paid tribute to Tefere Gebre, Executive Vice President of the AFL-CIO, and Edward McElroy, President Emeritus of the American Federation of Teachers AFL-CIO, at a dinner on March 28th in Washington, DC. The program for the dinner featured remarks by Yoav Apelboim, Director of Ahava Village for Children and Youth, and Cheryl Bier, who delivered a moving speech. Richard Trumka, President of the AFL-CIO, and Dr. Lorretta Johnson, Secretary-Treasurer of the American Federation of Teachers, served as dinner co-chairs. Dr. Johnson presented Mr. McElroy with his award, and J. David Cox, President American Federation of Government Employees did the same for Mr. Gebre. Mr. McElroy remarked, “It was a great event to bring people together to learn about the work of Bnai Zion.”
Ted Kirsch, a national board member of the foundation and President of the Pennsylvania AFT, served as the evening’s master of ceremonies. Mr. Kirsch, a staunch supporter of Bnai Zion, has worked tirelessly on securing guests of honor in numerous cities throughout the United States. He has lead two missions to Israel, including the recent Labor Gala Leadership Mission, and remarked on the gala, “The camaraderie amongst the attendees was truly great to see.”
J. David Cox and Tefere Gebre
David Eisenberg, Tefere Gebre, Fran Eisenberg, and Cheryl Bier
Tefere Gebre and Edward McElroy
Marc Nadelman, Yoav Apelboim, Ted Kirsch, Tefere Gebre, Edward McElroy, Cheryl Bier, Donald Vogelman, and David Eisenberg Yoav Apelboim and Ted Kirsch
BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
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National
A Lasting Home in Israel Bnai Zion Dedicates Park in Honor of Mel Parness me a sense of contemplative peace. From the girls playing guitar and singing Israeli songs, to digging holes to plant more trees after the ceremony, this day will forever be one of my most cherished memories.
By: Bari Shaffran
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hen Cheryl Bier invited my family to attend a dedication of the Bnai Zion Park in my father’s memory, I realized that I was likely the only immediate family member that would be able to attend. My sister lives far away, and my mom isn’t well enough to travel. I live in London and it would be easier for me. The morning of the event, I drove with my cousins from Tel Aviv to Ma’aleh Adumim for the dedication in memory of my father Mel Parness. We arrived early and pulled over to a small cliff overlooking the city of Ma’aleh Adumim. The sun peaked through the homes and buildings and trees, right next to a nursery school with children cheerfully playing in the courtyard. After about 20 minutes of taking it all in, we went to the park where over fifty people had gathered around a big, permanent sign and a ribbon commemorating the dedication. I
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Steve Savitsky, Macolm Hoenlein, Bari Shaffran, Benny Kashriel, and Cheryl Bier
“I was able to see what my father’s work meant to the people of the city he loved so much” stood beside Mayor Benny Kashriel, Malcolm Hoenlein, Steve Savitsky, and Cheryl Bier to cut the ribbon. A few people took turns digging a hole to plant a young olive tree. Many of the speeches were in Hebrew, which I don’t understand, but the cadence of the language gave
BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
Ma’aleh Adumim held a special place in my father’s heart. From the moment he met Benny, whom he referred to as his brother, he wanted to be a part of this great man’s plans to grow the city of Ma’aleh Adumim. My father worked tirelessly to ensure the Jewish people had a place of their own. He organized events, attended fundraisers, and spoke to large groups on behalf of his beloved Israel. My father was the best soul I have ever known. For his entire life, Israel was his end goal. He wanted nothing more than to live in Israel and experience the fruits of his labors. Sadly, he wasn’t able to make that dream happen. But by dedicating the Bnai Zion Park in memory of Mel Parness, his memory will live on there forever.
Israel Trips
Stephanie Garry (new national board member)
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y visit to Ma’aleh Adumim was too brief but heartfelt and an important piece of my recent journey to Israel. From the moment Rachely picked me up at my hotel to the tour she gave me, I was moved by the spirit of the community, the work that Bnai Zion does, and the rich opportunities available to enhance the lives of so many there. I felt honored to spend time with the mayor, to hear of his personal journey, and to feel connected. Connection is the heartbeat of Jewish life, and I feel strongly that we need to do all that we can to improve not only our connection to those in Ma’aleh Adumim but to that beautiful state known as Israel.
Beth Phillips
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his winter, my 85-year-old mother and I were privileged to meet with the beautiful people of Ma’aleh Adumim. It was an experience of a lifetime. When we arrived to meet the wonderful tour guide, my mother whispered in my ear that she was amazed at the size of the community. She was expecting to visit a small settlement. We quickly learned that Ma’aleh Adumim is an urban Israeli settlement in the West Bank, seven kilometers from Jerusalem. They achieved city status in 1991, and, as of today, they have a population of 44,000. The settlement has many factories and is well known for Soda Stream!
Connor Boyle’s visit to Israel with Levine Academy
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ello! My name is Connor Boyle (grandson of Vice President, David Eisenberg), from Dallas, Texas. I go to a Jewish day school, Levine Academy, in the Dallas area. Our entire 8th grade class went to Israel this past February/March for three weeks. What a wonderful opportunity and trip. We visited the entire country, from Eilat to Haifa, and everywhere in-between. The class had an opportunity to visit a very special place... Ahava, just outside of Haifa. We met with many of the kids around our age (12-15). We went into their apartments, saw how they lived, made their meals, ate with them, and met their foster parents. We also saw the emergency centers that they run to in the event of a rocket attack. In addition to playing soccer with them, we saw their schools, the way they cared for animals, and even a farm where they grow food and plants. You would hardly know that these kids came from troubled homes. We got to know Mr. Apelboim, who is in charge of the 250 children there! We hope to see Mr. Apelboim soon at the Dallas reception in May. The entire class was really glad that we were able to visit.
BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
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Northeast Region
New Center for Faith and Community
PARTNERSHIPS
Mayor Makes Announcement at Bnai Zion-Sponsored Event
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n January, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced a new Center for Faith and Community Partnerships in New York to connect citywide leaders and promote community engagement. The announcement was made at the Community Affairs Unit’s Annual Interfaith Breakfast, which was sponsored, in part, by Bnai Zion Foundation. The gathering was attended by more than 400 clergy and community leaders.
“The gathering was attended by more than 400 clergy and community leaders.”
The office will be led by Jonathan Soto and will be housed in the Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit. Mayor Bill de Blasio explained that New Yorkers don’t always know how to access City services in times of need and said, “The new Center for Faith and Community Partnerships will bridge this gap and support the valuable work our leaders already do.”
Hispanic Israel Leadership Coalition Event
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n incredible HILC Leadership event for Israel took place at the Center for Jewish History in Manhattan, NY, with Ambassador Dani Dayan, Malcolm Hoenlein, and Israeli organizations Philos Project, Hadassah Hospital, and Amalia.
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BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
Northeast Region
Cheryl Bier, Dani Dayan, Rabbi Gideon Shloush, and Rabbi Joe Potasnik
Yom to Yom Two Ceremonies Mark Israel’s Memorial and Independence Days
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nai Zion’s Cheryl Bier, Marc Nadelman, and Stephen Becker joined BZF board member Rabbi Joe Potasnik at a flag ceremony on Monday evening, May 1st, in honor of Yom Hazikaron (Israel Memorial Day) and Yom Ha’Atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) in downtown Manhattan at Bowling Green Park. Among the speakers were Dani Dayan, Consul General of Israel in New York. In partnership with the New York Board of Rabbis, the Israeli Consulate in New York, and the American Israel Friendship League, the raising of the flag and singing of Hatikvah proved to be a moving experience.
Ambassador Dayan also participated at the 3rd annual New York City Yom Ha’Atzmaut Community Celebrate Israel’s Independence Day with Temple Emanu-El and JNF at the Streicker Center later that evening. Bnai Zion Foundation co-sponsored, and Executive Vice President, Cheryl Bier, was among the select community leaders who spoke at this spirited event with an overflow crowd. The evening honored the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem and included the reading of Israel’s Declaration of Independence.
Rabbi Neil Zuckerman, Rabbi Maurice Salth, Rabbi Joel Masbacher, Rabbi Scott Bolton, Rabbi Benjamin Skydell, Cantor Todd Kipnis, Cheryl Bier, and Rabbi Joshua Davidson BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
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Texas Region
SPRING RECEPTION Proceeds Fund New Therapy Center at Ahava Village for Children
Honorees Ophir Laizerovich, Chris Schwarz, and Louis Marx
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n May 23rd, the Texas Region held a Spring Reception at Shearith Israel honoring Ophir Laizerovich, Louis Marx, and Chris Schwarz. They received the Bnai Zion Community New Leadership Award for their outstanding work in the community.
The evening kicked off with a welcome greeting from Texas Region President Diane Benjamin. National anthems were sung by members of the Levine Academy Show Choir. National Vice-President David Eisenberg forged the relationship between the academy and Bnai Zion. His Grandson, Connor Boyle, and the rest of the 8th grade class of the Levine Academy recently took a trip to Israel where they toured the grounds of Ahava Village and
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for the abused and neglected children at Ahava Village.
Yoav Apelboim
learned all about how Ahava helps the children of Israel. Connor Boyle introduced Yoav Apelboim, Executive Director of Ahava. Yoav flew in from Israel to share the evening with our Texas supporters and express his gratitude for their continuous support
BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
Executive Vice-President Cheryl Bier spoke passionately about the importance of helping the children of Ahava: “Many of them are removed from their homes by the court. Ahava gives them a safe and nurturing place to live. These children have been victims of neglect and/or physical, sexual or emotional abuse. Ahava provides all of the elements that a child would experience in a healthy home environment.” Texas Region Chairman of the Board Larry Strauss announced this year’s live auction items and expressed how essential Bnai Zion’s support is for Ahava’s children.
Texas Board
Co-chairs Rivae Campo and Theresa Wilson presented awards to the honorees, thanking them for their outstanding commitment to the local Jewish community. The evening closed with remarks from Texas Region Executive Director Avrille Harris , who dedicates herself to this event and continues to make it a success each and every year! Proceeds from this reception will be used to fund the construction of a new Therapy Center at Ahava Village for Children & Youth in Kiryat Bialik, Israel
Yoav Apelboim, Courtney Hensel, Guy Lyons, Bonnie & Rob Boyle, Fran & David Eisenberg, Cheryl Bier, Liz Lawlor, and Tom Elieff
Ellie Fisher, Dana Shidlofksy, and Connor Boyle
Paula & Jeremi Warner, David & Pamela Hamilton, Karen & Bob Apetz, and Chris & Shanna Schwarz
Susan & Burton Gilliam and Diane Benjamin
Brenna Norton, Michal Epstein, Danielle Levkovich, Sara Lipszyc & Samantha Norton
BNAI ZION VOICE
• Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
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Texas Region 24TH ANNUAL
Kosher Chili Cook-Off Brings Community Together
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he Bnai Zion Foundation sponsored a team at this year’s Dallas Kosher Chili Cook-Off, an annual community-wide event featuring 40-50 teams participating in a blind-tasting competition of beef and veggie chili recipes. Each year, the event creates an opportunity to bring together the diverse Jewish communities in North Texas for a deliciously kosher day of food, fun, and fellowship. The teams prepared a total of 940 gallons of chili using 1,300 pounds of beef, oodles of veggies, seasonings, and many secret ingredients. The smashing group of Bnai Zion volunteers who participated were Theresa Wilson (head chef), Shirley and Larry Strauss, Bobbi Stein, Reed Wernick, Diane Benjamin, Sher and Elizabeth Bond, Rivae Campo, and Avrille Harris. Participant and Texas Region President of Bnai Zion, Diane Benjamin, said, “This was the perfect time to showcase our work at Ahava Village. We were able to promote attendance at our Spring Reception to so many people who attended the Cook-Off.”
“The teams prepared a total of 940 gallons of chili using 1,300 pounds of beef, oodles of veggies, seasonings, and many secret ingredients.”
Dallas Celebrates Israel’s Independence Day
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nai Zion Foundation participated in Dallas’ celebration of Israel’s Independence Day at the JCC on Sunday May 7th. There were activities for children, including a petting zoo, face painting, and fishing at the Red Sea. Volunteers hosted Bnai Zion’s booth and discussed Bnai Zion’s work in Israel with attendees.
Avrille Harris, Executive Director of Bnai Zion Texas Region, said the format of the event was improved from last year and allowed more people to come to Bnai Zion’s booth to learn about the Ahava Spring Reception.
SAVE THE DATE! 5TH ANNUAL
Alan Marx Memorial IFPA Pinball Fundraiser September 17, 2017 3:00 pm — 8:00 pm HOSTED BY
Louis Marx and Kimberly Jeanette Marx Benefiting the Bnai Zion Medical Center Avrille Harris, Diane Benjamin, Pastor Lydia Sigman, Bev & Cary Rossel, Benji Gershon, and Pastor Scott Sigman
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Pinball • Silent Auction • Cash Bar
Florida Region
Celebration of
LIGHTS
Bnai Zion was honored as the sponsor of this historic event.
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n the evening of December 18th, 2016, the Hispanic Israel Leadership Coalition, Temple Beth El, and Bnai Zion hosted a Celebration of Lights Event at Temple Beth El in West Palm Beach. Consul General Lior Haiat, George Schaeffer, Rabbi Leonid Feldman of Temple Beth El, and Pastor Mario Bramnick, President of Hispanic Israel Leadership Coalition, spoke at the event, which also featured singing and dancing as a display of
solidarity with Israel. The Hispanic Israel Leadership Coalition, a subsidiary of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC/CONEL), exists to engage the Latino born-again Evangelical community in full support of Israel and the Jewish community around the world. Several hundred Christian and Jewish community leaders and guests attended. Bnai Zion was honored as the sponsor of this historic event.
“Hispanic Israel Leadership Coalition, Temple Beth El, and Bnai Zion hosted a Celebration of Lights Event at Temple Beth El”
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Bringing Bnai Zion to New Heights
2017 UPCOMING EVENTS NORTHEAST REGION
A message from Stephen G. Becker, Director of Strategy and Development New York Woman’s Event
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et us work together to bring the Bnai Zion Foundation to new heights. It is an honor to join the BZF staff and work with board members and donors in our mutual goal of sharing the humanitarian mission of helping our family in Israel. With the rich history of serving those most in need since 1908, our efforts to work together to educate both young and not-so-young will be fulfilling and fun. I grew up in Worcester, Massachusetts in the Reform Jewish community at Temple Emanuel and graduated from Brandeis University. My wife and I raised our two daughters in Franklin Lakes, NJ where we belong to Bnai Jeshurun, The Barnert Temple. My professional background is in sales and marketing, where I began my career in the fashion accessories business. This was followed by working in the early days of e-commerce and, after that, directing the books and music department at the Union for Reform Judaism. Working under the direction of Cheryl Bier, I welcome the opportunity to engage with many of you to join us in supporting the important projects which transform so many lives.
Thursday, September 14 • 6:30 – 9:30 pm Featuring: Nadine Epstein & Dr. Edna Edrich Nadine Epstein is the editor-in-chief and CEO of Moment Magazine, founder and executive director of the Center for Creative Change, and founder of the Daniel Pearl Investigative Journalism Initiative. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Smithsonian, and many other publications. She has co-written three books and a documentary film, which was shortlisted for an Academy Award. Dr. Edna Edrich served as a doctor at Bnai Zion Medical Center in the Anesthesia Department and as Chief of The Pain Management Clinic. She currently lives in New York with her daughter Lior and husband David, whose parents Gizella and Arie Edrich, of blessed memory, were great supporters of Bnai Zion Medical Center for many years.
New York Dinner Thursday, November 9 • 6:00pm • Roosevelt Hotel Honoring: Kevin Roche Kevin Roche has designed diverse facilities including museums, research laboratories, theaters and campus buildings. Among other awards, he has received the Pritzker Architecture Prize and the Gold Medal Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
TEXAS REGION
Please reach out to say hello at Stephen.Becker@BnaiZion.org.
Annual Texas Region Gala Sunday, October 29 • Westin Galleria
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Giving appreciated stocks will allow you to take immediate tax deductions as well as avoid capital gains! In addition to supporting the Bnai Zion Foundation’s vital projects in Israel, you will receive an income tax deduction for the value of your stocks — now is the time — the stock market has recently hit record highs.
Yes, I am interested in Funding a Charitable Gift Annuity with Stock
Why Give Stock? • Receive an income tax deduction for the full market value of your stocks at the time they are received by Bnai Zion • Avoid capital gains taxes up to 23.8% • Provide immediate support for Bnai Zion’s humanitarian work in Israel
Why Fund a Charitable Gift Annuity with Stock?
Please send me more information Please contact me to arrange an appointment NAME
ADDRESS
CITY
• Immediate charitable income tax deduction and a lifetime stream of income
STATE ZIP
• Zero lump sum capital gains tax at the time your stocks are sold
PHONE
• Provide lasting support to Bnai Zion and the Jewish community worldwide
BEST TIME TO CALL
LEARN MORE For a confidential proposal, contact Cheryl Bier, Executive VP and National Secretary at 800.564.6399 or cheryl.bier@bnaizion.org. For a confidential personalized Gift Annuity proposal, please complete and return the form at right.
Mail this form to: Cheryl Bier, Executive VP and National Secretary Bnai Zion Foundation 1430 Broadway, Suite 1804 New York, NY 10018
www.bnaizion.org
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Our Projects in Israel: Bnai Zion Medical Center
Bnai Zion
MEDICAL CENTER Reflexology for Maternity and Obstetrics Division
Bnai Zion Medical Center Utilizes Complementary Medicine
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of the body and its systems are represented in the foot and uses touch or pressure in specific areas to treat medical problems.
BZMC was the first in Israel to offer complementary medicine, including in delivery rooms. Complementary medicine is integrated with the conventional medicine in a way that is tailored to each patient. Reflexology is predicated on the assumption that all parts
Reflexology and guided imaging in delivery rooms have been shown to significantly shorten the length of delivery, ease pain, decrease anxiety, and improve patient satisfaction. Natural methods have increasingly been used in the delivery process; many women are interested in a minimally invasive labor, perhaps due to fear of the side effects of active intervention of western methods (including mechanic labor induced by balloon, using stripping as an invasive and painful method or medication treatment with oxytocin).
he Maternity and Obstetrics Wing at Bnai Zion Medical Center recently began new research to test the effectiveness of using reflexology to induce labor at 39-41 weeks gestation in order to prevent invasive interventions. Reflexology is a holistic therapeutic method focused on the movement and flow in the body – physical, emotional, mental – which promotes health.
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“Reflexology and guided imaging in delivery rooms have been shown to significantly shorten the length of delivery, ease pain, decrease anxiety, and improve patient satisfaction.” Research has also shown that acupuncture has the ability to start the delivery process and shorten its length, with no side effects. Dr. Suraia Said–Adres, senior physician at the Maternity and Obstetrics Division, explains that the risks and complications in overdue pregnancies (pregnancy that lasts beyond 42 weeks) begin at week
THE CUTTING EDGE BZMC’S GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED LAPAROSCOPIC SIMULATION CENTER
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he Bnai Zion Medical Center Surgery Department, headed by Dr. Ibrahim Matter, operates a laparoscopic simulation center that serves to evaluate performance and allow practice for those who wish to train in the newest surgical technology. Laparoscopic surgery has many advantages, yet the technique is not easy to learn and the practice is complex. The surgeon has to master challenges such as understanding the three dimensional space while looking at the screen that broadcasts two dimensions.
Dr. Suraia Said-Adres
Simulations are an extremely important tool that is used for practice and evaluation in many areas, like aviation (civil and military) and, more recently, in medicine. FLS – Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery is the name of a course that was developed by the American Association of Surgeons in order to assimilate the basic principles of laparoscopic surgery. The course is designed with a part that can be self-taught on the internet and basic skills that can be tested through the simulator.
41 and include increased risk of fetus mortality (rare), delivery of big babies, and increase of instrumental deliveries and cesarean surgeries. In light of this, the acceptable approach in most delivery rooms is to operate after 41 weeks.
BZ’s simulation center is headed by Dr. Gidon Sroka, Deputy Director of the Surgery Department. He recently returned from two years of studying FLS at McGill University in Canada, where he conducted research proving that surgery interns who practiced on the simulator demonstrated significantly better performance in the operating room than interns who didn’t practice on the simulator.
Dr. Said-Adres says that she and her colleagues aim to start a natural delivery through reflexology starting at week 39. Treatment will focus on relaxation and preparation of the body for labor with natural stimulation of oxytocin to cause contractions. Bnai Zion Medical Center hopes that reflexology will be an effective tool to induce labor and lead to more natural and safer deliveries.
He also discovered that in order to achieve a high level of performance it only takes 7.5 hours of practice on average. This practice allowed new interns to perform in the O.R. at the level of senior interns with two years of experience. Given the immense benefits of simulated practice, the center serves not only the needs of the department’s interns, it has become a regional teaching center for surgery departments from all over Northern Israel. In fact, it is now a globally recognized laparoscopic center, and many teams from all over the world, most recently from Slovakia, have come to learn at the center.
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Our Projects in Israel: Ahava Village
AHAVA VILLAGE International Connections at Ahava Delegations and Visitors Forge Partnerships
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he Ahava Village for Children and Youth has made connections around the world through international visits and welcoming delegations. Recently, three Ahava members, Yoav Apelboim, CEO, Daniel Ariel, Vice President and Manager, and Tamar Even-Tzur, social worker, participated in an international congress of F.I.C.E., a worldwide network of professionals working in the field of alternative child and youth care. 600 professionals from around the world participated in the congress on the development of special programs for at-risk children and youth without family support. Ahava members presented programs which were developed at Ahava in three presentations. Ahava has hosted many notable visitors recently, including a delegation of professionals from Romania, a group of IDF retirees, Knesset member Karin El’harar, and student delegations from Europe, one from Germany and one from Holland. All came to observe Ahava’s therapeutic programs, and worked together with Ahava children to create a vegetable garden. Every year a delegation from the New York Orangetown Jewish community and synagogue visits and works with our children for two days. They built a mosaic decoration, tree beds, and a rain shed in the main garden. They cleaned the stair rooms and organized a photography project which involved taking photos of all the children at Ahava.
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“The Ahava Village for Children and Youth has made connections around the world”
Liat’s“Now, Story American Liat came tocan Ahava she was families be when even more six years old from a poorly functioninvolved to provide hope ing family. Her father was arrested support forinthe youth forand being involved fraud, while her mother sank into deep depresliving in the Ahava Village.” sion and turned into a heavy drug user. Liat’s eight and ten-year-old siblings were placed in foster families, but Liat arrived at a home-care unit in Ahava, underweight and with emotional problems. She struggled to adapt, attempted to escape, and failed several attempts at therapy. After six months, her educational plan was modified and paired with music therapy. The therapist discovered, after two intensive months of work in the therapy room, that Liat has a great talent for music. She was allowed to study music at a conservatory (and even get her own keyboard), and was able to return to normal school classes with tutoring to support her studies. Today, Liat is 17 years old, lives with a foster family, and is still studying piano. She stays in touch with her home care unit guides and her music therapist and says that only Ahava enabled her to start a new life.
A NEW HOME FOR AHAVA GRADUATES REESTABLISHMENT OF THE TEHERAN HOUSE Ahava’s management has decided to rebuild the Teheran Home, a house that has not been suitable for use and has remained unoccupied for several years. An anonymous donor has agreed to donate money to make this construction possible. “Teheran Children” is the name given to hundreds of Jewish children from Poland who escaped with their families during the Second World War and became refugees in Teheran. When they fled to the eastern regions of Poland in 1942, many were caught by the Red Army and lost their families. Thousands of refugees, including the Teheran Children, joined the Polish army on USSR land, under the command of General Vladislav Andres, which became known as the “Andres Army”. When the Andres Army arrived in Iran, the Jewish Agency established a refugee camp for the group’s 716 children in Teheran and managed their transfer to Israel. The new house will be named after Yehudit Hochberg, a Teheran Child who kept continuous contact with Ahava and passed away a few years ago. The building will be used for Ahava’s graduates and graduates from other various residential centers in Israel who have no family. These young adults need a place to live, support while serving the IDF as lone soldiers, and help afterwards while integrating into civilian society, acquiring a profession, or studying in an academy. The house will include four apartments, in which six young adults (ages 18+) will reside, and one apartment for the project’s housemother. The apartments will be warm homes for the young adults and will help them learn how to manage independent life.
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Our Projects in Israel: Ma’aleh Adumim
MA’ALEH ADUMIM Welcomes UN Ambassadors
Ambassador Danon Leads Seminar for Foreign Diplomats
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he Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Mr. Danny Danon, recently visited Ma’aleh Adumim with a delegation of 15 ambassadors from countries in Asia, Europe, South America, and Africa. This visit was part of an intensive four-day seminar that took place for the second consecutive year to allow ambassadors to see Israel for themselves and be educated on the challenges the country faces. Ambassador Danon toured Ma’aleh Adumim together with the delegation of participating UN ambassadors from Albania, Argentina, Botswana, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Burundi, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Sierra Leone, Micronesia, Mexico, and Uganda.
The Mayor, Mr. Benny Kashriel, provided the delegation with a detailed explanation about Ma’aleh Adumim’s history, future develop-
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ment, and national strategic importance. Ambassador Danon reiterated the need to educate visitors about the country and show Israel from a personal point of view, not as presented by the UN.
“Ambassador Danon toured Ma’aleh Adumim together with the delegation of participating UN ambassadors” Throughout their visit to Ma’aleh Adumim and the industrial zone of Mishor Adumim, the ambassadors expressed their interest and enthusiasm and asked the mayor numerous questions regarding relations with the Palestinians, water resources, construction, and the development of the city in general. Mayor Kashriel described the trip as “an important and meaningful visit which shows
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Our Projects in Israel: Ma’aleh Adumim the entire world that Ma’aleh Adumim is a city and part of the nation with a bright and promising future.” Ambassador Danon said, “It is very different seeing for yourself and not from hearsay about the country. My challenge is to make the ambassadors ardent supporters of Israel and to vote pro-Israel in an open manner at the UN.” He added that he is hopeful that their visit will enhance their understanding of the settlements and the reality of life in this area. Benny Kashriel and Danny Danon
MAYOR KASHRIEL HEADS TO WASHINGTON MA’ALEH ADUMIM LEADER ATTENDS TRUMP INAUGURATION
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a’aleh Adumim mayor, Benny Kashriel, along with Oded Revivi and Yossi Dagan flew to Washington DC to attend the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump. “We’re opening a new page with the Americans,” said Kashriel. Kashriel, Revivi, and Dagan represent settlement regions of the West Bank and hope for continued strong ties between Israel and the United States. To this end, Kashriel extended an invitation to Donald Trump during the campaign to visit Ma’aleh Adumim, located just outside of Jerusalem. Kashriel noted that it was emotional to travel to Washington for an inauguration. “I hope it leads to the recognition of Ma’aleh Adumim as part of [sovereign] Israel,” he added.
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Our Projects in Israel: David Yellin Academic College of Education
DAVID YELLIN COLLEGE Raises Training to a New Level
An Inside Look at the Simulation Center for Teachers and Educators of the Next Generation
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s in every multicultural society, Israel’s diverse population poses challenges for educators, who must be prepared to adapt to a multitude of cultures, customs, and outlooks. The Simulation Center for Teachers and Educators of the Next Generation project offers College’s students of education an experiential and effective method of learning. The Center simulates a real professional environment enabling new teachers to better implement their acquired knowledge after graduation in their own classrooms. In recent years, simulations have increasingly been used as a means for training professionals in varied areas. As an academic college training tomorrow’s educators, the students of the College begin practical work in their first academic year in order to give them actual classroom training that reinforces the pedagogic and didactic principles in their theoretical courses. The Simulation Center will add another dimension of training available to students. The activity in the simulation center is done in groups of up to 20 students. Participants choose an issue they wish to learn by way of simulations, for example, a situation they encountered in their teacher training that they would like to work on. The simulation is filmed using two cameras, focusing on both role players, and is followed
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“The Simulation Center for Teachers and Educators of the Next Generation project offers the College’s students of education an experiential and effective method of learning. Simulations are increasingly being used as a means for training professionals.”
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by a debriefing from the simulation facilitator, a senior professional in the field. The experiencing student is given an opportunity to analyze his own actions in the situation (employing self-reflection) and receives in-depth feedback from the roleplayer, facilitator, and fellow students. The feedback providers use the clips from the videos during the reflection process. The David Yellin College is accessible to a variety of multicultural audiences, and as such will feature simulations expressing the needs
of diverse populations such as immigrants, special needs children, and people with compound disabilities. This will be made possible by a team of scenario developers, camera operators, actors, various trainers, and film editors. As the only simulation center in the area of Jerusalem, the center can serve also students outside the College. The College’s geographical location in Jerusalem allows the ultra-religious community access to the simulation center. The center would be able to run separate workshops for the ultra-religious population and others with adjustments to their needs. The College simulation center will focus on the interpersonal aspect of teaching, generating open and ongoing communication to allow for inclusion, trust, mutual respect, low level of conflicts, support, and setting boundaries. This will be achieved by emulating situations from the formal and informal education, while focusing on various ages and the Israeli society’s multiculturalism. The Simulation Center for Teachers and Educators of the Next Generation will keep the College at the forefront of educational training. The Center will better eqip Israel’s future teachers to educate the next generation of students.
INTERNATIONAL DIALOGUE OPENS DOORS FOR STUDENTS THE DAVID YELLIN ACADEMIC COLLEGE SENDS DELEGATIONS TO POLAND AND BRITAIN
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he David Yellin Academic College prides itself on providing unique opportunities for its students and this year will be sending two different international delegations to Poland and Britain.
The seminar taking place in Poland is an opportunity for students to get acquainted with present-day Poland, hold a dialogue with students of pedagogy, visit several schools, participate in activities with children, and visit prominent Jewish and Polish sites. The groundwork for this trip has already been laid, as Mr. Przemysław Bobak, First Counselor in the Polish embassy in Israel, met in December with students as part of their preparation for a seminar to be held in Poland. Students will visit Warsaw and Gdansk and participate in a seminar facilitated by Ms. Edna Green and Ms. Ruti Bar-Simai, in association with Spark Pro organization and Mr. Boaz Yardeni. The second delegation is part of a Jewish-Arab dialogue to be held in Britain in May 2017. The topic of this year’s seminar will be Multiidentity and cultural Societies and is intended for Jewish and Arab college students. The intra-group dialogue, dealing with the group members’ personal, cultural, and occupational identity, will expand by way of a dialogue with educators and social activists and a visit to schools, alongside a discussion on educational and social issues specific to Britain. Upon return, the students are required to write a summary paper based on a reflective journal, and some participants will have another opportunity to go on a three-week visit to an overseas school for practical experience.
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Our Projects in Israel: Israel Elwyn
ISRAEL ELWYN'S
Construction of the George and Irina Schaeffer Cultural Center Provides New Opportunities
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newly renovated building – the George and Irina Schaeffer Cultural Center – adds a new transformative dimension to the lives of the residents at Israel Elwyn’s Supported Living Services complex in Jerusalem. IE is currently home to 220 adults with intellectual and other disabilities requiring varying levels of care. After the recent construction of a new kitchen, IE’s management considered the best use for the former kitchen and dining hall and decided to build a special, dedicated space for social and recreational use by residents and the community. The George and Irina Schaeffer Cultural Center’s spacious central hall now allows the residents to celebrate holidays and other festive occasions, as well as cultural events, including performances, concerts, movies,
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and lectures. The Center will enable residents to expand their exposure to and contact with the community by providing ideal facilities for encouraging inclusive activities. The Center’s smaller, more intimate rooms will provide residents with a place to hold meetings and participate in activities that give them enjoyment, promote selfexpression, and encourage the development of social and life skills. One room will be outfitted as a kitchen to enable residents to learn to cook, both for their own pleasure and to train for employment in the community. Another room, in addition to being used as a crafts workshop, will become a warm and intimate space for residents to spend time with their families and friends. When not in use by residents, these spaces will be used for conferences, lectures, and meetings.
“The Center will enable residents to expand their exposure to and contact with the community by providing ideal facilities for encouraging inclusive activities.” The George and Irina Schaeffer Cultural Center was dedicated on May 26th in the presence of George Schaeffer and his daughter, Nicole, residents, and their families, and IE staff and management. IE’s partners participated in this festive occasion, including Mr. Gideon Shalom, Senior Deputy Director General and Director – Division of Intellectual and Developmental Disability, as well as others from the Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs and Social Services; the National Insurance Institute; the Shalem Foundation; and the Jerusalem Municipality. Israel Elwyn’s residents and staff are grateful for the Schaeffers’ incredible generosity and look forward to making the newly renovated facility an integral part of IE’s programs.
SHARING KNOWLEDGE AROUND THE GLOBE ISRAEL ELWYN’S COLLABORATION IN URUGUAY
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s a learning institution, Israel Elwyn takes great care to learn from others and share the knowledge it has accumulated throughout its 33-year history. Each year, members of IE’s professional staff participate in conferences and workshops in Israel and around the world. As a result of connections made at these events, IE professionals have been asked by community leaders in the USA (Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania) and South America (Buenos Aires) to provide insight on IE’s programs. The latest such partnership has developed with the Jewish community and service providers in Uruguay. During a trip to Uruguay, IE CEO David Marcu met businessman PaulEmile Bessade and his wife, Emmanuelle, who, in 2014, established the nonprofit Bensadoun Laurent Foundation, an organization dedicated to people with disabilities. After hearing about IE’s programs, the Foundation sent its professionals to Israel to see IE’s work first hand. In June 2016, senior members of Israel Elwyn’s staff participated in a series of workshops and a conference on the subject of job placement and employment in the competitive job market for persons with disability in Montevideo, Uruguay. The Foundation funded the Montevideo visits for several staff members, each of whom have over 20 years of experience and are highly qualified to present IE’s cutting edge work. The workshops focused on the employment of individuals with disabilities and on sharing IE’s professional experience. At the conference, IE’s work was presented to approximately 60 professionals. During the workshops, IE’s staff were exposed to a different culture and varying experiences from the field. Following the visit, the Foundation revamped its approach to local businesses, which under Uruguayan law have no legal obligation to hire workers with disabilities. “The visit led us to understand that if we wanted to make better progress in inclusive employment, we would need to change our approach,” Bessade stated. “We decided to go street by street, business by business. Inspired by IE’s job training program at Hadassah Medical Center – Ein Kerem, we also partnered with several companies to create a similar five-month training program on their premises,” Bensadoun noted, adding, “None of this would be possible without IE and we hope to strengthen our ties and continue learning from IE’s experts.” BNAI ZION VOICE • Summer 2017 • www.bnaizion.org
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VOICE THE MAGAZINE OF THE BNAI ZION FOUNDATION
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