Eight Nights. Eight Leaders. One Community.
This Chanukah, the CHJCC launches a new initiative celebrating the individuals whose quiet leadership and unwavering dedication have shaped Crown Heights. Each night, we will honor one community leader, past or present, whose work, values, and compassion continue to illuminate our neighborhood.
Chanukah reminds us that a single flame can push away great darkness. The leaders we highlight embodied that message every day — strengthening families, supporting neighbors, and ensuring that no one in our community was left without dignity, care, or hope.
As we share these stories throughout the eight nights of Chanukah, we invite the community to join us in continuing this sacred work.
Night One
Honoring Rabbi Yisroel (Izzy) Rosenfeld, OBM
Rabbi Yisroel (Izzy) Rosenfeld, OBM, served as the Executive Director of the CHJCC during its early formative years, helping build the foundation upon which so much of today’s work still stands. He was a steady, humble force — the person people turned to when they needed assistance, advocacy, or simply someone who would listen.
Reb Yisroel carried the needs of Crown Heights with sincerity and heart. Every request was met with patience, dignity, and a deep sense of responsibility. He never sought recognition; he sought to help another Yid. His countless acts of Chesed, done quietly and consistently, continue to shape the fabric of our community.
His legacy is a lantern of warmth, integrity, and devotion — the very essence of community leadership.
Continue His Light
Please support the CHJCC in his honor:
https://buy.stripe.com/eVq9AT8Bk1At81y9H09Zm00
Very warm childhood memories with Reb Yisroel as he worked closely with my father A”h Rabbi Flint.
Because of Izzy Rosenfeld my husband had the honor to serve 4 consecutive NYS Senators. The rest is history. Izzy was very talented and put the CHJCC on the
map. He worked with the elected officials of the day for the sake of the community and also had a heart to help others. Thank you for highlighting his place in shaping the roadmap to community service that he led with excellence.
Arna Lipkind