One of the most anticipated charitable and social events each winter is the annual Emunah dinner. This year, it will take place on Saturday night, the second of December, at Pier 60 Chelsea Piers. The gala highlights incredible men and women who have assumed leadership roles in their communities, oftentimes balancing other major responsibilities in addition to their volunteer work. It is also an opportunity to showcase strides Emunah has made in terms of their growth as an organization, and their contributions to the families and children in need.
This year, Emunah has chosen as its guests of honor Esther and Paul Lerer, who epitomize the qualities represented by Emunah of America. They are longtime supporters, members and leaders of Emunah and lifetime advocates for the betterment of Jewish lives, worldwide.
Emunah is extremely privileged to honor Melanie Oelbaum, a woman of unwavering strength, spirit and selflessness, with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Michelle Salig is the deserving recipient of the Keter Shem Tov Award for her outstanding work on behalf of Emunah’s families.
Through her unwavering commitment to Emunah’s cause, Shira Ben-David ensures the future of the next generation of volunteers and will therefore be receiving the Young Leadership Award.
During the dinner, Emunah will also highlight the work it has been doing on strengthening its Multipurpose Day Care Centers, facilities that work with both parents and children to keep families together. While Emunah has many group homes for children, they are addressing the greater need of preventing these kids from being separated from their parents. The Multipurpose Day Care is a unique preventative model that provides a place for these children to receive hot meals, baths, enrichment activities and tutors during the hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. When they go home, there is very little for their parents to do, thus easing their burden. Simultaneously, parents work closely with therapists and educators to strengthen their own parenting skills and give them the knowledge they lack. Emunah’s goal is to prevent these children from going into foster care and to keep these struggling families intact.
Emunah has over 250 social service and educational projects throughout Israel, helping over 12,000 people in need. The programs vary from schools, to homes, to crisis counseling centers, with the vision of helping children and adults lead successful, productive,and meaningful lives, filled with love.
Emunah greatly relies on the support from the community to ensure these award-winning programs continue. Please join us on December 2 and help make a difference in the life of an adult or child in need in Israel.
By Sarah Abenaim
