Imo Anochi, founded by Rabbi Eli Portal, is redefining the shidduch scene with a unique singles event on May 18 at 6:30 p.m. in Brooklyn, designed for accomplished individuals with physical disabilities or medical conditions, and those open to dating them. This initiative is a response to
the often superficial and misaligned matchmaking process that those with disabilities face, and aims to foster connections based on shared values and compatibility. Often, matchmakers focus narrowly on the disability, overlooking individual personalities, interests and life goals. This can lead to matches that are well-intentioned but lack a deeper understanding of compatibility. Imo Anochi’s event aims to shift this paradigm by recognizing each participant’s unique qualities and full potential.
The interest in this event extends beyond those with disabilities, as many individuals without disabilities have expressed interest in the event for various reasons. Some have family members or friends who navigate disabilities in their own lives. Others appreciate the depth and resilience that often accompany the experience of living with a disability. Still others are seeking partners who are defined not by physical conditions but by their accomplishments, values and character.
To participate in this event, interested singles must fill out a confidential Google form, providing pertinent information which will be reviewed by a team of professional shadchanim. If relevant, matchmakers will conduct a video screening to ensure that each participant is not only compatible but also genuinely ready for a serious relationship. Once approved, a $50 registration fee is required to secure a spot at the event, after which the exact location will be disclosed.
There are already registrants who are flying in from other states, speaking to the immense need for a singles event of this kind.
The evening promises top-tier entertainment from Shlomo Levinger and DJ CP, with meticulous planning by Element Formation. The dedicated team of matchmakers includes Rabbi Eli and Neeli Portal from Imo Anochi, Rivkah Fox of BlindFate, Shoshana Mounessa of Adopt-a-Shadchan, Malky Galler and Mindy Eisenman from YU Connects, Leah Spiegel of Bonei Olam’s Kesher Networks, and Baila Sebrow, ensuring a personalized and sensitive matchmaking process. Though the ultimate goal of the event is for singles to find spouses, Rabbi Portal also wants this event to raise awareness of the wide range of services that can help people with a disability who are dating.
Rabbi Portal has a personal connection to the challenges of being disabled and dating. His own journey began after a childhood accident left him paralyzed. When he was 6, he was in an ATV accident along with his four brothers. Rabbi Portal suffered a spinal cord injury. Despite thriving academically and socially, he faced significant obstacles in the shidduch scene—challenges that many with physical disabilities encounter. When Rabbi Portal was dating, he wished he had someone to speak to about this issue. Now married with three children, he understands the nuanced struggles of those navigating the shidduch scene. As a therapist with expertise working with couples and those in shidduchim, he supports individuals and couples facing relationship challenges, providing insights and strategies to foster healthy, loving relationships.
During COVID, Rabbi Portal created a podcast called “Rolling with the Punches,” where he interviewed people facing adversity and explored the issues from a religious and psychological standpoint. Organically, through the podcast, individuals reached out to him, requesting to be put in touch with the guests he interviewed. That was when he started connecting people who were going through similar challenges.
As a therapist, he was aware of the impact of support groups and knew of many relevant organizations. This led to Rabbi Portal’s “aha” moment, when he had the idea to create a place for people with questions or situations of any kind to have a place to go for support.
Imo Anochi’s mission, inspired by the biblical story of the burning bush—where Hashem reassured Moshe, and thus all of klal Yisrael, of His presence in times of hardship—drives the organization. The name Imo Anochi, meaning “I am with you,” reflects this commitment to solidarity and assistance. The thorn bush, as discussed by Rashi, symbolizes the omnipresence of Hashem in our struggles, reminding us that no challenge is too great when we have support and companionship.
Imo Anochi, part of the OU Accelerator’s fifth cohort, has made over 1,000 referrals and provides a WhatsApp group for where individuals can find support, therapy and process groups. Through initiatives like this singles event and the “Rolling with the Punches” podcast, Rabbi Portal fosters supportive communities where individuals find understanding, mentorship and genuine connections. Currently, Imo Anochi together with MASK, Al Kanfei Nesharim and the JCC, runs a support group for single mothers in the Five Towns. Imo Anochi is currently working on building an online platform that will be used by other organizations to streamline the process of providing support in the frum community.
For more information or to support Imo Anochi’s mission, contact Rabbi Portal at imoanochi1@gmail.com.
Hannah Kirsch is a former intern at The Jewish Link, and is currently a development associate at Sharsheret.
