Chabad at Monterra Celebrates 10th Anniversary

Chabad at Monterra in Cooper City, Florida, recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with a joyous event held last Motzei Shabbos in Cooper City. The celebration was hosted by directors Rabbi Adi and Malky Goodman alongside youth directors Rabbi Aharon and Elky Spielman, bringing together community members and local Chabad representatives, including Rabbi Pinny Andrusier, Head Shliach of Southwest Broward.

Over the past decade, Chabad at Monterra has established itself as a unique institution catering to individuals from all backgrounds, ages, and styles. The warmth and welcoming atmosphere of the community were evident throughout the celebration. Pioneer awards were given to four families who had been a part of the community since its inception.

One of the award recipients, Russell Giniger, reminisced about growing up in New Jersey, where he had never seen a Sukkah on the back of a truck or received Shabbat invites. Dr. Eric Robbins, who MCed the event, humorously described the community as a group of misfits who found a home at Chabad. Former Cooper City Commissioner Massimo Pulcini, who recognized the work of Chabad at Monterra, said, “I may be a Catholic, but I am a proud member of Chabad.”

The celebration included top-notch food and entertainment. Rebbitzen Malky Goodman highlighted that just like at Mount Sinai, where everyone felt welcome and a connection to the Torah, to all Jews equally, the Chabad at Monterra community is a place where everyone is welcome, and all have an equal part of the Torah.

The event marked a decade of joy for Chabad at Monterra through Judaism. The community has gained a reputation as a one-of-a-kind institution that brings people together and fosters a sense of belonging for all. Rabbi Adi said, “We are so proud of how the past ten years went, and we can’t wait to grow in the future.”