Achdus in California Pays Off

On Motzei Shabbos, Young Chevra of Southern California held a Melave Malka Cocktail Evening to benefit Keren Avrohom Eliezer – The Young Chevra Gemach.

The Young Chevra Board planned a stunning evening at the exclusive “MARK” event hall. From the valet parking to the elegant sushi, hors d’oeuvres, cappuccino station and buffet by MGM Caterers, everything was first class. Over 200 attendees represented young Lubavitchers from various communities across the Southland.

Following cocktail hour, participants were welcomed by Young Chevra Chairman, Jonathan Herzog who thanked the Gemach Director, Danny Levin and paid tribute to Rabbi Mendel Goldman and his family for providing the seed capital that helped establish the Gemach back in 2008.

After an inspiring D’var Torah from Rabbi Aaron Abend, the Shliach to North Hollywood, participants heard a moving story and emotional words from Rabbi Mendy Goldman about his brother, Avremi OB”M for whom the Gemach is named. What took place next was truly inspirational for all who were present. Rabbi Levi Raichik addressed the importance of a gemach in a community and then requested individuals to publicly announce how much they were willing to contribute as a “pikadon” to the Gemach. People raised their hands and called out numbers, “$1000” “$5000” “$3000” “$10000” and so on. By the time the numbers were tallied, an event that the organizers were hoping could possibly raise $50,000 had raised over $140,000! This charitable stream of offers will undoubtedly have a tremendous impact for the Young Chevra community.

Following the formal part of the evening, Rabbi Mayer Greene auctioned off several coveted items including a replica picture of the Rebbe, donated by Chabad of California, that had survived the tragic Westwood Chabad House fire in 1980. The evening culminated with a special performance by master illusionist, Shimi Illuzini, often referred to as Israel’s own David Copperfield.

The success of the evening was a credit to the achdus demonstrated by the growing Lubavitcher communities of Southern California. All who attended had a wonderful time, and more importantly, left knowing they had accomplished something very meaningful.

“Young Chevra of Southern California” is an association of young Lubavitch familes from 10 communities around Southern California. Each of the main local Shuls and regional communities has representation on the Young Chevra Board. The goal of Young Chevra is to promote achdus between the younger Chabad communities of Southern California and strengthen their overall connection with each other.

Keren Avrohom Eliezer – The Young Chevra Gemach, is a valuable resource for young families in Southern California. The Fund is available to assist people overcome a wide variety of circumstances including: helping to make a Simcha, expanding a business, providing a bridge loan, a cashflow crisis, or some other financial difficulties.