(Courtesy of Chai Lifeline) Chai Lifeline’s National Gala drew more than 800 guests to celebrate and support the organization’s critical work on December 17 at Pier Sixty, in New York City. The evening, themed “Shining Together,” highlighted the vital impact of Chai Lifeline, the Jewish community’s leading health and crisis support network.

Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline, expressed the significance of the event, stating: “The National Gala is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of the compassion and dedication that fuel Chai Lifeline’s mission. Tonight, we honor our incredible volunteers, staff and supporters, whose unwavering commitment ensures we can continue to be there for families when they need us most.”

This year’s Gala honored Rabbi Chaim and Chavie Bruk, recipients of the Champions of Hope Award, and Dr. David J. Hackam, who received the Maimonides Medical Achievement Award.

The program featured inspiring and entertainment, including a powerful musical performance by Shmuel and Shining Vocals, as well as a mesmerizing display by speed painter and mentalist Robert Channing.

One attendee shared: “The Gala was a beautiful reminder of the impact Chai Lifeline has on so many lives. Being part of this event made me feel connected to a larger mission of kindness and hope.”

The night concluded with a Camp Simcha Alumni Afterparty, where former Camp Simcha campers and staff reunited to celebrate and support the work of Chai Lifeline.

Chai Lifeline serves over 6,000 families worldwide, offering a comprehensive network of services, including case management, counseling, crisis and trauma intervention, home and hospital respite care, meals for families in need, transportation to medical appointments, i-Shine after-school programs, and its world-renowned Camp Simcha summer programs for children with serious illnesses.

To learn more about Chai Lifeline and its life-changing work, visit www.chailifeline.org.