An overwhelming number of eager participants, including members, dispatchers, and law enforcement personnel, joined in a show of hakaras hatov honoring Chaverim of Rockland members and the community’s critical individuals that support this worthy organization.
The Chaverim of Rockland Members Appreciation Dinner took place at the Vilchovitz Hall in Monsey on Sunday, January 30. The event celebrated the individuals behind the record number of 34,862 calls that were covered in 2021.
“It is important to our organization,” says Yossi Margaretten, coordinator of Chaverim of Rockland, “to show appreciation to our incredible volunteers and those that work side by side with us, supporting Chaverim year-round. ”
The evening’s speakers were Rabbi YY Jacobson, the renowned lecturer who is also a resident of Monsey, and Rabbi Dudi Farkash, founder of Chabad of Olympia in Monsey, who thanked the Chaverim members for their selfless work to help others.
“It was an honor and a privilege to take part in Chaverim’s Annual Member Appreciation Dinner,” said Rockland County Legislator Aron Wieder. “I can’t think of an organization that deserves our appreciation more! Chaverim volunteers, many with their own specialty service, are available round the clock 24/7, making your emergency – their emergency. There is nothing they won’t do when it comes to offering assistance to their fellow man. I admire each and every one of these selfless individuals.”
Among the honorees at the event was Ramapo Chief of Police Martin Reilly. He was thanked for his continuous work and the excellent relationship he has always maintained with Chaverim and for always looking out for the good of the community. Rockland County Sherrif Louis Falco was thanked as well, and appreciation was given for his many years of working in conjunction with Chaverim.
Chaverim’s top runners from 2020 and 2021 were honored for taking the most calls during the year. The 2020 top runners are Nachman Leifer and Nuchum Abraham, and the 2021 top runners were Shlomi Hiller and Aron Silberstein.
Also in attendance were Ramapo Police Department captains, lieutenants, special k-9 units, and community police officers; the Spring Valley Police Department Chief and Deputy Chief, Sheriff William Barbera; Vice President of the Monsey Fire Department; State Assemblyman Mike Lawler, Town of Ramapo Supervisor Michael Specht, Councilmen from the Town of Ramapo, Chief of Staff from the Town of Ramapo, Director of Purchasing and Operations & Budget Coordinator Mona Montell; Deputy Supervisor Brendel Logan; Yehuda Weissmandl; and Community Officer Julianne Franklin. The District Attorney’s office was represented as well.
