Colors: Blue Color

One of the things I love about my shul, Congregation Etz Chaim of Kew Gardens Hills, is that it makes room for participation and involvement of women wherever halachically permitted. In recent years, women are demanding more and more opportunities in more and more areas of life. In the Jewish world, one of the demands is for more opportunities for Torah learning – and not just any Torah learning, but high-level and high-quality Torah learning, preferably text-based.

On Wednesday, June 12, NY Yachad celebrated 35 years of disabilities inclusion with a beautiful evening at the Sephardic Temple in Cedarhurst. Hundreds came out to celebrate with Yachad and pay tribute to three sets of amazing honorees. Martha and Howie Hershkovich were presented with the Keter Shem Tov award for their commitment to Yachad and their mission of inclusion. Sarla, their wonderful daughter, has attended Yachad summer programs and social recreational programs for close to 10 years, and Martha has been active as a parent advocate, speaking at the Yachad Parent Panel this past January. Tani Sussman and The UPS Store Financial District accepted the Community Service Award for his partnering with Yachad’s vocational program and employing Zev, a beloved Yachad member. Zev joined the gala and was overjoyed at being present for his “boss” to receive this worthy award. Lauri and Lewis Barbanel were the guests of honor at the gala, serving as prime examples of community leaders who are passionate about supporting the Jewish community in so many different ways. The Barbanels are active OU board members, while Lauri serves on the Yachad commission, directing Yachad’s strategic growth for the future.