(Courtesy of Shalom Task Force) On Sunday, November 4, Shalom Task Force greeted over 350 community members at its annual brunch at the Sephardic Temple in Cedarhurst, New York. The standing-room-only crowd came to recognize the achievements of the exceptional honorees, as well as to support this critical service to the community. This year Shalom Task Force honored Shani Traube as the guest of honor. Rabbi Peretz Steinberg received the community leadership award, Frady Kess was recognized with the dedicated service award, Rachel Hercman received the professional leadership award and Dr. Sarah Chana Silverman was presented with the hakarat hatov award.
In her remarks, Shani Traube shared that as a long time volunteer, she was struck by the courage of the men and women who came forward seeking help. She shared her desire to help build healthier families and reflected on the pain of children growing up in the shadow of violence. She passionately asked, “How do we expect children to soar if their wings are broken?”
Shalom Task Force is here to help create safety and foster healthy families and relationships. This theme resonated throughout the program. Executive Director Dr. Shoshannah Frydman reflected on this event as a celebration of our community’s ability to unite in times of pain and trauma, and support the most vulnerable. The packed room watched a short educational film that illustrated the fear which can dominate the life of a victim of domestic violence, and how Shalom Task Force provides services to help address safety and prevent abuse.
Councilmember Rory Lancman, a staunch supporter of the agency, also gave remarks. In addition, Congresswoman Grace Meng, NYS Senator Todd Kaminsky and NYS Assemblyman David Weprin all shared words of encouragement and support. The Honorable Audrey Pheffer and NYS Assemblywoman Stacey Amato both attended and demonstrated their strong dedication to this organization.
The program closed with the stirring words of Rachel Marks, vice president of the board who spoke of the broad range of programs, geared both to helping victims and to creating and strengthening families. This event provides critical support for Shalom Task Force. Through its confidential hotline, legal services, education and community programs, Shalom Task Force creates safety and fosters healthy families. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please reach out to Shalom Task Force at 718/337-3700, or 888/883-2323 or [email protected].
