The Teaneck/Bergenfield/New Milford community is fortunate to have in its midst a cadre of dynamic women who share a common trait: They are passionate about Israel and its people. Emunah of America, the Israel Prize–winning organization with 250 social welfare and educational projects throughout Israel, is fortunate to have in its ranks many local supporters and volunteers who have chosen the organization as a way to impact the lives of Israel’s citizens. On Shabbat, May 14, the Emunah Libby Kolb Chapter will hold a Shabbat Tea to honor the past and current presidents of this local chapter at Congregation Rinat Yisrael. The event also commemorates the 18th Yahrzeit of Libby Kolb a”h, one of the first presidents the chapter, and after whom the chapter is named.
Libby Kolb epitomized what it is to be an Aishet Chayil and a strong Emunah woman. She was creative and passionate and helped the chapter grow into the active force that it is today. A loving
wife and mother of four, she tragically passed away at the age of 37 from breast cancer. Her family and friends dedicated the Libby Kolb Center for Creative and Graphic Arts, which is housed in the Emunah Torah and Arts High School in Jerusalem, in her memory. This was a particularly meaningful memorial for an artistic woman who loved children and was passionate about Israel and its Jewish future.
The Emunah Torah and Arts High School is a unique high school that combines the study of the arts with a strong curriculum in Judaic Studies. Creative students have the opportunity to major in the creative field of their choice while staying true to their religious beliefs. Many of the students come from disadvantaged backgrounds and cannot afford the tuition. Money is raised to allow for scholarships and stipends for these students so they can be given the tools to succeed academically and go on to higher education.
Libby was a leader in every sense of the word—and the first in a long line of Emunah chapter presidents who will be recognized at the Shabbat Tea. Over the years, each president brought her own talent and dedication to her leadership role. Many have gone on to become active in the National Leadership of Emunah. The Shabbat Tea recognizes their contribution to Emunah and to the children and families helped by Emunah every day.
The honorees are: Hila Abenaim, Rhonda Avner, Renee Becker, Shaindy Brothman, Bonnie Eizikovitz, Ronnie Faber, Toby Feder, Rochel Feld, Shani Folkman, Tova Gerson, Amy Gibber, Sharon Herenstein, Felicia Hoenig, Meryl Hoffman, Deena Kaszovitz, Janis Klein, Libby Kolb a”h, Evie Leifer, Sandra Lerer, Ericka Levine, Susan Nadritch, Mindy Orlinsky, Beth Rosenbaum, Mindy Stein, Naomi Schiff, Michelle Schwartz and Rochelle Schwartz.
Proceeds from the Tea will benefit the Libby Kolb Center for Creative and Graphics Arts at the Emunah Torah and Arts High School. Anyone who is interested in attending the Shabbat Tea should contact Emunah at 212-564-9045 ext 306 or reserve online at emunah.org/springluncheon.
