Yeshiva Ohr Simcha was established in 1997 by my father, HaRav Yosef Strassfeld, זצ”ל to provide top-notch chinuch, combined with a focus on each bochur’s growth and development. The warm rebbe-talmid relationship is stressed as integral to the talmid’s learning and progress.

The yeshiva’s mission remains unchanged since its inception. We see the spark in our students and just add that “Englewood magic” to enable them to come into their own. Rebbeim work with each boy to help him realize his true potential and the greatness that is already inside of him. The only way to do that is by really believing in them: sincerely seeing past any shortcomings to the beauty within.

The yeshiva prides itself on the special connection developed between rabbeim and talmidim that lasts a lifetime. This connection is created and strengthened in many different ways: over a Gemara, singing at an oneg or through the many extracurricular activities throughout the year. This connection is the secret ingredient of our legendary ruach and positive atmosphere.

Keeping a small rebbe-to-talmid ratio is so important. It’s the key that enables students to have time to learn and talk one-to-one, in a way that wouldn’t be possible with large classes.

The yeshiva is embarking on a Rayzeit campaign to meet the costs of maintaining this approach. However, this campaign is about more than just budget. With the community’s help we hope to build a full commercial kitchen to really upgrade the food service; fix the exterior of the building; repave the parking lot (which doubles as our basketball court); and enhance the otzer, along with other capital investments.

Due to COVID restrictions, the usual fundraising/collections were put on hold, resulting in a considerable loss of funds for the yeshiva. Please donate what you can, and join us in creating the leaders and laymen of the future. To donate, visit https://rayze.it/ohrsimcha/mstrassfeld.

By Rabbi Menachem Strassfeld