EMUNAH of America

Earlier this month, Emunah held a professional enrichment day for the directors of our therapy centers to address the distinct needs arising from the war. Yifat Sela, Chairman of Emunah Israel, and David Hadari, CEO of Emunah Israel, joined this impactful workshop in Yaffo.

Our directors discussed the future of our centers and best practices in the evolving ther**eutic field. They attended a lecture on children’s trauma with organization from New York and enjoyed a guided tour of Yaffo.

These workshops are essential to Emunah’s mission. Our directors are now even better equipped to provide the best possible care.

“As we observe Tisha B’Av, a day that marks the breaking apart of the Jewish nation, we would do well to reflect on how our people today, under the darkest of circumstances, take care of one another.”
- Meira Lerner, Head of Operations at World Emunah

This week, a group of women from Kiryat Shmona, currently evacuated from their homes and staying in hotels across the country, made a powerful journey to the south. Their visit to Sderot and Netivot wasn’t just a tour; it was a heartfelt act of solidarity with their sisters in the south.

At the Emunah Sarah Ronson Therapy Center in Sderot, they heard from director Tami Beck about the incredible work being done to help those in need of healing. Later, they gathered with the inspiring women of Emunah Netivot, where they listened to the city’s security director, Yogev Hazan, share his experiences from October 7th.

But this wasn’t just about hearing stories. The women of Emunah Netivot prepared a beautiful meal, cooking and baking to pamper the evacuees. They even invited reservist soldiers to join, offering gratitude and listening to their stories.

The day ended with a shared meal, filled with love, unity, and overwhelming emotion. This is the spirit of Israel and the essence of Emunah—standing together, supporting one another, and spreading light even in the darkest of times. ✨

Join Emunah at our Annual Benefit on Monday, September 16th, as we honor Estelle a”h and Leonard Glass and Anne and Jerry Gontownik.

In these challenging times, Emunah remains unwavering in its commitment to support the most vulnerable and strengthen Israeli society. Your support is crucial as we continue to adapt, heal, and rebuild together. Stand with us, because 𝒯𝑜𝑔𝑒𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇, 𝒲𝑒 𝓈𝓉𝓇𝑒𝓃𝑔𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝒪𝓊𝓇 𝐹𝓊𝓉𝓊𝓇𝑒.

𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐈𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐞𝐥 𝐝𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐚𝐫. 𝐰𝐰𝐰.𝐞𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐡.𝐨𝐫𝐠/𝐛𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐭

Sports are a great equalizer, motivating players and spectators alike. As we watch the Olympics, it’s a reminder of equal opportunities for women to shine.

Aviva P***k, a mother and grandmother, has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. When asked to mentor girls from the Emunah Bet Saba Elazraki children’s home for a half marathon in Florida, she eagerly accepted.

Many of these girls have never run before, but with Aviva’s guidance, they followed a personalized training program. Over months of preparation, their bonds grew stronger.

This experience boosted their running skills, studies, self-confidence, and health. Aviva says, “Our bodies are gifts from G-d, and it’s our duty to take care of them.”

Just as we are so proud of our girls for their dedication and determination, we are also proud of the Israeli Olympics team and all they have endured and accomplished!

Calling All Vendors!!!

🌟 Get ready to shine at the Emunah Vacation Village Concert! 🌟

This is your chance to showcase your products and connect with a vibrant community while supporting a great cause. There’s still time to sign up as a vendor—don’t miss out!

🎉Thank You, New Jersey!🎉

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us at last nights annual Emunah Mahjong & Canasta event at the JCC on the Palisades! Over 100 of you came together for a night of delicious dinner, amazing raffle prizes, and some friendly yet competitive games. For those who couldn’t make it, we missed you and hope to see you at our upcoming events!

Together, we raised essential funds for Emunah’s lifesaving programs in Israel. Your involvement means the world to us, and we’re so grateful for this incredible community.

🌟 Thank You! 🌟

We had an amazing day at yesterday’s annual Mahjong & Canasta on the Beach event!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for a day full of games, delicious food, and great company, all in support of the vital work Emunah is doing in Israel. Your participation helps us continue making a difference!

Last week Emunah launched the “Rishonot’’ network with its first ever conference. Over the course of the year, 60 religious women - all of whom are managers and directors from the public, business and social sectors, will participate in Emunah’s Rishonot program.

This conference and the Rishonot program in general are an incredibly important step in promoting religious female leadership throughout Israeli society and we’re all excited to see what these women and the women in upcoming cohorts bring to the table!

This summer, the youngest children at Emunah Daycare Centers in Netanya received new sandals thanks to the Emunah Netanya’s Annual Footwear Project! Ruth Kotton and Joyce Berman, along with their husbands, delivered 134 pairs of sandals to 7 daycares. The kids are thrilled with their new shoes and ready for summer fun! Thank you, Emunah Netanya! 👟✨

✨ 𝒮𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒟𝒶𝓉𝑒✨

Join us for our Annual Benefit on Monday, September 16th! Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with inspiration and celebration, while supporting the important work Emunah is doing for our children and families in Israel!

Your presence and support mean the world to us. Stay tuned for more details! We can’t wait to share this special evening with you. 💫

𝒯𝑜𝑔𝑒𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇, 𝒲𝑒 𝒮𝒽𝒶𝓅𝑒 𝒪𝓊𝓇 𝐹𝓊𝓉𝓊𝓇𝑒

The summer fun is just heating up with Emunah of America! Join us for these fantastic events throughout New York and New Jersey:

👩‍🍳July 30th: Young Leadership Challah Bake with Suri Jaroslawitz. Register at www.emunah.org/challah

🏖️August 6th: Long Island Mahjong & Canasta on the Beach. Register at www.emunah.org/limahjong

♣️August 7th: New Jersey Mahjong & Canasta Event. Register at www.emunah.org/njmahjong

🎤August 15th: “United for Emunah” Yoni Z Concert at Vacation Village. Register at www.emunah.org/vacationvillage

Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities to connect, have fun, and support Emunah’s children and families in Israel. Don’t wait, grab your spot and make a difference this summer!

The children of Emunah Achuzat Sara are having a blast this summer! 🎉 Thank you to the summer program! Our kids are not only enjoying fun camp activities but also building lasting memories with their new American friends.

This Tuesday, the boys participated in an exciting Army Day, led by our soon-to-be soldiers, while the girls indulged in a relaxing spa day with facials and manicures.

Thank you, Kol HaNearim, for bringing so much joy to all our children in all five of the Emunah homes. Here’s to a fantastic summer! ☀️❤️

The summer is packed with amazing events throughout the New York and New Jersey area! From an unforgettable challah experience with Suri Jaroslawitz to a rocking concert with Yoni Z in Vacation Village, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss out! Sign up for an event near you and help make a difference for Emunah’s children and families in Israel. Can’t wait to see everyone there! ☀️🎶🗓️

It’s hard to believe that 9 months have passed since October 7th, a day of immense trauma and pain that continues to deeply affect our people. Many in the South, directly confronted by Hamas, are still grappling with their trauma, and over 100 of our people remain held hostage in Gaza. Healing is a long and ongoing process, and at the Emunah Sarah Ronson Counseling Center in Sderot, director Tami Beck and her staff are providing life-saving therapy to Sderot’s citizens and surrounding communities. The center offers classic psychotherapy and alternative therapies to ensure clients get the tools they need to heal and move forward.

The staff, who also live in the South and experienced trauma, remain dedicated to helping others heal. Tami shared the center’s new mission of providing therapy to all social workers employed by the Sderot Municipality. This vital project supports social workers in processing their trauma, enabling them to continue their crucial work with the municipality. The Emunah Sarah Ronson Counseling Center of Sderot is an inspiration to us all! 🌟

✨ Attention Emunah Young Leaders ✨ Join us for a special Challah Event with the amazing Suri Jaroslawitz on Tuesday, July 30th!

A unique and spiritual challah experience benefiting the Emunah Children and families in Israel.

📅 When: July 30th
📍 Where: NYC, Address TBD
🔗 Register here: www.emunah.org/challah

We can’t wait to see you there!

Emunah of America is honored to be one of the supporting organizations for tomorrow’s special reception and screening of the Sheryl Sandberg documentary, “𝐒𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞”, at 6:00 pm at the Meyerson JCC Manhattan.

The screening will be followed by a discussion between Hadassah National President, Carol Ann Schwartz, and the American Muslim and Multifaith Women’s Empowerment Council Co-Founder and President, Anila Ali.

“𝐒𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞” is a powerful documentary that captures first-person testimony from October 7th survivors, first responders, eyewitnesses, released hostages, forensic experts, and advocates. Their harrowing accounts reveal the uncompromising truth: that Hamas used r**e, assault, and mutilation in a brutal rampage of gender-based violence. The world needs to know so this brutality never happens again. We must bear witness!

Link to register: https://mmjccmfilm.eventive.org/schedule/6674659fc3a31f00414d0535?_gl=1*11tfu7p*_gcl_au*NDA3NzI1NTY5LjE3MjA2NDY0NDM.*_ga*MjkzODM3NDcuMTcyMDY0NjQ0Mw..*_ga_1DMQDPJL1Q*MTcyMDY0NjQ0My4xLjEuMTcyMDY0NjQ5NS44LjAuMA

Attention New Jersey! Join us for our annual Mahjong & Canasta event on Wednesday, August 7th!

It will be a night full of fun, games, a delicious light dinner, and incredible raffle prizes!!

📅 When: August 7th
📍 Where: JCC on the Palisades
🔗 Register here: www.emunah.org/njmahjong

Let the games begin! ♥️♣️

Don’t miss our Brooklyn Summer Luncheon! ☀️Happening July 16th at Essen NY Deli featuring Rubin Margules!

Register today to secure your spot

We are so excited to announce our entertainment for this year’s annual Vacation Village Summer Event on Thursday, August 15th!

🎤 Concert by the one and only Yoni Z
🍽️ Dinner, boutiques, and more!

📅 When: August 15th
📍 Where: Vacation Village
🔗Register here: www.emunah.org/vacationvillage

Join us for a night of singing, dancing, and unity, in honor of Israel!

This past week, Israel celebrated “Shavua Hasefer” (Book Week), a vibrant celebration of books, literature, and specifically, the richness of Hebrew literature. Books open up worlds of possibilities, spark our imagination, preserve our history, and pass down knowledge and traditions to future generations.

We are incredibly proud of Emunah’s contributions and representation at this year’s “Shavua Hasefer.” Our graduates from Emunah schools and children’s homes have made remarkable impacts in the world of Hebrew literature.

One inspiring example is Moriah Vaknin, a graduate of Emunah Neve Sara Herzog High School. At just 27, Moriah wrote “The Magical Bag,” a children’s book dedicated to the memory of her late mother. During her time as a platoon sergeant in the Karakal unit, she penned this book to spread kindness and positive values. Despite lacking financial backing, she persevered and succeeded in publishing it about three years ago. Part of the proceeds from her book sales goes towards various volunteer projects, continuing her mission of doing good in the world.

Moriah’s journey shows the power of determination and the impact of literature. We celebrate her and all who make the world better through their stories. 📚✨

“Our graduates are proof that with the right support and love, any child can flourish and succeed”
- Shoham Nagar, Director of the Emunah Neve Landy Children’s Home

🎓✨ Last week, we celebrated a major milestone at Emunah Neve Landy – our wonderful graduation ceremony! It was an emotional night filled with joy & pride as we congratulated our group of graduates.

The graduates, alongside our dedicated staff, presented a beautiful film capturing their journeys and the growth they’ve experienced at Neve Landy. This evening was a heartfelt opportunity to thank the incredible team that has guided them and to look forward to the bright futures that await them! 🌟👏

Attention Long Island! Join us for a beautiful day at our annual Mahjong on the Beach event on Tuesday, August 6th!

Games, delicious food, and amazing raffle prizes, all while supporting Emunah’s vital ther**eutic services in Israel.

📅 When: August 6th
📍 Where: Sunny Atlantic Beach Club
🔗 Register here: www.emunah.org/limahjong

We’re looking forward to seeing you there!

As life goes on, we must never forget that the war continues, and with it, soldiers are wounded daily. This week, the 12th-grade girls of Ulpanat Emunah Technology Bet Weinstein High School brought smiles and hope to wounded soldiers at Tel Hashomer Hospital.

Their visit was filled with laughter, music, and heartfelt conversations, reminding our heroes that the entire country stands behind them, grateful for their bravery and sacrifices. Together, we support them in their recovery and cherish every moment of connection and optimism 🙏🇮🇱

🌟 Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate your Bat Mitzvah? Join Emunah of America’s Mother-Daughter Mission for an inspiring trip this November 24-30! Create cherished memories while making a difference. 💖✨

Register at www.emunah.org/njmission

Last week at Emunah Neve Landy Children’s Home, the children honored the memory of their beloved counselor Eliad Ochayon hy”d, by dedicating this years annual race in his memory! Eliad and his father, Moshe, bravely gave their lives to protect their community of Ofakim during the October 7th attacks, and will forever remembered as heroes. This year’s event was filled with joy, excitement, and a spirit of resilience as the children raced in Eliad’s honor. ✨🏃‍♂️🏆

For two months, our children trained with dedication and enthusiasm, ending the race off with beautiful decorations, a delicious smoothie stand and snacks to enjoy. Congratulations to the race winners, to all who participated, and to the amazing Emunah Neve Landy staff for all your hard work and dedication! Eliad’s legacy continues to inspire us!

𝐄𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐡 𝐘𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐚𝐙𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 & 𝐘𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐚’𝐀𝐭𝐳𝐦𝐚𝐮𝐭 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐞𝐥: 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐞𝐥

For our last night, of a truly unforgettable mission, we headed up North to the Emunah Afula Children’s Home. It was a night filled with laughter, challah baking for the chayalim, one-on-one basketball games and a musical performance from “The Emunotes,” a singing group create by the children in the home. These children inspire us with their talents and remind us of the importance of nurturing every child’s potential. 

Together, we stand stronger, united in our commitment to building a brighter future.

𝐄𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐡 𝐘𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐚𝐙𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 & 𝐘𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐚’𝐀𝐭𝐳𝐦𝐚𝐮𝐭 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐞𝐥: 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐞𝐥

Our final day on the Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut mission was deeply meaningful and enriching, highlighting both personal and national resilience.

We began the day with an inspiring talk by Hillel Fuld, a proud Zionist and global speaker. As the brother of Ari Fuld hy’d, Hillel passionately emphasized the need to stand up for Israel and combat antisemitism worldwide. His words resonated deeply, reminding us of the ongoing struggle and the importance of solidarity with the Israeli people.

Next, we experienced a truly unique opportunity by visiting Beit Hanassi, the official residence of the President of Israel. Touring the beautiful grounds, we engaged in a heartfelt discussion with Michal Herzog, the First Lady of Israel. Michal shared her insights on initiatives aimed at fostering a stronger, more united nation. She underscored the historical connection between the Herzog family and Emunah, noting how Emunah’s mission to support the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of children and families is crucial in today’s context.

Our day concluded at Sheba Hospital’s Rehab Center, where we were moved by the courage and determination of wounded soldiers. Their gratitude and resilience were palpable. Among the inspiring individuals we met was Maya Regev, a released hostage who, despite her traumatic experiences, maintained a positive attitude and a radiant smile. Her strength encapsulates the unbreakable spirit of the Israeli people.

This final day left us with a profound sense of connection and commitment to continue supporting Israel’s future.

𝐄𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐡 𝐘𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐚𝐙𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 & 𝐘𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐚’𝐀𝐭𝐳𝐦𝐚𝐮𝐭 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐞𝐥: 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 

We ended off our 4th day of our mission with a heartwarming evening at Neve Landy Children’s Home filled with art, laughter, and love. We had the privilege of hearing from Yifat Sela, Chairwoman of Emunah Israel.  

These children remind us of the beauty of resilience and the importance of creating joyful memories despite the challenges 🕊️🇮🇱💙

🎉 Mazal Tov to our amazing Bar Mitzvah boys from Emunah Afula and Emunah Neve Michael! 🎉

Over the past two weeks, our children celebrated in Jerusalem, connecting with our heritage. They danced through the Old City, davened at the Kotel, and explored the Kotel tunnels and Machane Yehuda.

It was a journey filled with joy and purpose, creating unforgettable memories for everyone involved. ✨

𝐄𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐡 𝐘𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐚𝐙𝐢𝐤𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 & 𝐘𝐨𝐦 𝐇𝐚’𝐀𝐭𝐳𝐦𝐚𝐮𝐭 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐬𝐫𝐚𝐞𝐥: 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 

The Nova Festival site, Kibbutz Re’im 

“Seeing the open field and all the memorials was incredibly emotional. It was hard to imagine what transpired that day in the open field. But they memorialized those who were killed or taken hostage so beautifully. Again, in a moment of emotional pain came two inspiring moments.” 

“We heard from Rom El-Hai, a survivor of the Nova festival. He told us his story of the day of October 7th, his bravery and what he did to survive. It was incomprehensible to us but there he was living to tell the tale. Next we heard from Rami Davidian. Rami was a civilian that was called upon to save kids from his moshav. He ran into the line of fire and used incredible skills to save those he was asked to save. He went beyond the call of duty saving 750 kids over a 48 hour period. To see such a humble person relay his story was awe inspiring.”
-  Sharon Herenstein, EOA Mission Participant 

The stories of survival remind us of the power of courage in the darkest of times 🇮🇱🕊️💪🏻