On May 22, over 125 people attended Hebrew Free Burial Association’s inaugural Bergen County Breakfast at Congregation Rinat Yisrael.

The breakfast was an opportunity for HFBA to honor their longtime board member, and Teaneck resident, Bryan Alter. Amy Koplow, HFBA’s Executive Director shared how Bryan became involved over a dozen years earlier doing pro-bono legal work negotiating a software contract. Amy realized that Bryan was a gem and convinced him to join the Board of Directors.

Bryan spoke about the importance of chesed shel emes, telling the story from Parshas Vayechi about Yaakov ensuring that Yosef would arrange for his burial in the Maa’ras HaMachpayla. Bryan explained how the work of HFBA is so vital, and a continuation of Yosef’s solemn pledge to his father.

And finally, Rabbi Paysach Krohn spoke about the timeless legacy of HFBA (see the story adjacent to this article). Rabbi Krohn urged the audience to participate in HFBA’s mission, however possible.

HFBA is truly grateful to the Bergen County community for their tremendous support and is already looking forward to next year’s Second Annual Bergen County Breakfast!

Andrew Parver is Director of Operations at Hebrew Free Burial Association. He is also a licensed funeral director.

by Andrew J. Parver