Chai Lifeline, the Jewish community’s leading children’s health and crisis support network, will honor Rabbi Chaim and Chavie Bruk, co-CEOs of Chabad Lubavitch of Montana and proud Chai Lifeline parents, with the Champions of Hope Award at its annual National Gala on December 17, 2024, at Pier Sixty in New York City. The theme of this year’s gala, “Shining Together,” highlights Chai Lifeline’s unwavering support for Jewish families facing medical challenges and crises, celebrating the unity and resilience that Chai Lifeline fosters across the community.
Rabbi Chaim and Chavie Bruk have served as Chabad shluchim in Bozeman, Montana, dedicating their lives to supporting and uplifting the Jewish community in a region far from typical Jewish infrastructure. Their work has brought Torah, warmth, and yiddishkeit to countless individuals. For the Bruks, this mission also carries a deeply personal connection to Chai Lifeline. Their daughter, Zeesy, was born with a rare genetic disorder that has led to developmental delays and seizures, making life in a remote area like Bozeman even more challenging, especially for a young observant Jewish girl in need of specialized care and connection.
“Chai Lifeline has become our family’s lifeline,” shared the Bruks. “When we discovered Camp Simcha, Chai Lifeline’s medically supervised overnight camp, it transformed Zeesy’s life. Each summer, she experiences the joy of camp alongside friends who truly understand her journey. Watching her light up in that environment has been a gift beyond measure.”
Zeesy has attended Camp Simcha for several summers, and for her and the entire Bruk family, it has provided a vital source of friendship and community. Living in Bozeman can feel isolating, yet the connections Zeesy has built with her camp friends and counselors continue year-round, offering her a sense of belonging and joy. Chai Lifeline’s care extends well beyond the summer, providing support that has become an integral part of the Bruks’ lives and allows them to continue their shlichus with greater peace of mind.
Rabbi Chaim and Chavie see the National Gala as more than just a celebration. “This event is a chance to show our hakaras hatov for an organization that has uplifted us and so many others.”
Chai Lifeline CEO Rabbi Simcha Scholar praised the Bruks’ dedication to their community and expressed his gratitude for their partnership. “Rabbi Chaim and Chavie embody what it means to live for others, both in their role as shluchim and as Chai Lifeline parents. Their devotion to their family and community is an inspiration, and we are honored to recognize their impact.”
In addition to the Bruks, Chai Lifeline will present the Maimonides Medical Achievement Award to Dr. David J. Hackam, Pediatric Surgeon-in-Chief at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, whose pioneering work has transformed pediatric surgery and given hope to countless families. The gala will also feature a special musical performance by acclaimed Israeli singer-songwriter Shmuel.
Funds raised will support more than 6,000 families around the world through Chai Lifeline’s essential programs and services, including case management, crisis intervention, financial assistance, insurance advocacy, counseling, meals, transportation to medical appointments, i-Shine afterschool programming, Camp Simcha, and more, all offered at no cost to families.
For more information, tickets, or sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.chaidinner.org.
Chai Lifeline and Camp Simcha are incredible! We are so lucky to have such an amazing Jewish organization.
What a GREAT couple, authentic and real Rebbe Shluchim. I spent a Shabbos there was blown away with them. Hatzlacha Rabah
Your friend in Miami
ZF