OYYL Celebrates Dinner in Honor of Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s Engagement

Photos: Chaim Tuito

Oholei Yosef Yitzchok Lubavitch, a school dedicated to chinuch al taharas hakodesh, celebrated the anniversary of the Rebbe’s engagement in its Grand Inaugural Dinner on Vov Kislev.

Created in partnership with Bracha Torenheim and her team at TOP 360, the event was a visual masterpiece featuring captivating videos and presentations centered around the theme of “America iz nisht andersh.”

The Frierdiker Rebbe’s timely declaration holds profound significance for OYYL and its mission. Just as he urged his chasidim not to be swayed by new influences, the school stands firm in its commitment to preserving chinuch al taharas hakodesh.

Led by Rabbi Velvl Butman, Head Shliach of Westchester County, serving as MC, the evening began with heartfelt Tehillim for Israel, underscoring the crucial need for the pure davening and Torah learning of our children to safeguard our Land and Klal Yisroel.

The responsibility of imparting chinuch al taharas hakodesh has never been more urgent, and OYYL, with its devoted teachers and staff, is wholly dedicated to constructing a school grounded in these values.

The night resonated with joyous dancing, inspiring speakers, stunning chassidishe nigunim performed by the Kapele Choir led by Rabbi Yossi Cohen, and delicious food provided by Butcher Restaurant. Special thank you to Avi Berko and Ben Davidov from CH Butcher Grill House, whose personal touch ensured top-quality fare.

Founder Rabbi Mottel Schneiderman shared an inspiring story of divine guidance. When asking the Rebbe for a blessing to hold the Gala Dinner on Vov Kislev, he opened a letter in the Rebbe’s Igros addressed to Oholei Yosef Yitzchok Lubavitch of Morocco, wishing them success in their fundraising endeavor—a clear affirmation for the path ahead. Time and again, OYYL has experienced miracles with clear and direct guidance from the Rebbe’s letters.

Together with his wife, Mila, the Founders shared their personal story and inspiration leading to the creation of the school, following the loss of their infant son, Yosef Yitchok. Attendees pledged their support, laying the groundwork for a successful campaign and ensuring OYYL’s sustainable future in its new building. The school extends a big thank you to a generous philanthropist (who wishes to remain anonymous) for his awe-inspiring pledge of $180,000.

Renowned speaker, Rabbi Levi Goldstein, took the stage to share the Rebbe’s deep mesirus nefesh for chinuch al taharas hakodesh, firmly rooted in the principles of Chabad philosophy. No cause was more cherished by the Rebbe than the pure education of our children.

The evening also recognized real life champions of chinuch—role models, dedicated staff, and exceptional parents who have exceeded all expectations. This year’s honorees include Chona & Chana Gewirtz, recipients of the Chinuch Visionary Award; Rabbi Yisroel Kaplan, recipient of the Innovator in Chinuch Award; Morah Leah Goldstein, recipient of the Chinuch Leadership Award; and Meir & Chana Kabakov, recipients of the Parent Partnership Award. Their dedication sets a shining example for all.

OYYL School Community extends their special thanks to all the parents, educators, and staff who help with putting this great event together. Special recognition is extended to our long time supporters- Gavriel and Bella Rubashkin, Yaakov and Shmuel Spritzer, Dovid and Chana Karetny, Boruch and Iris Borodkin, Ofer and Dafna Shaked, Elchonon Shagalow, Meir Schmukler.

On Vov Kislev, the day that forever united the Rebbe with his chasidim through his engagement to the Frierdiker Rebbe’s daughter, we, as chasidim, have a special role to play. This is also our personal day of engagement.

During this special week―from Vov Kislev to Yud Daled Kislev―we can leave a lasting impact on the future of chabad education together with OYYL. Let us collectively seize the opportunity to give the Rebbe and Rebbetzin something truly precious—a brick of pure chinuch al taharas hakodesh in OYYL’s new building.

To sponsor a brick and fulfill the Frierdiker Rebbe’s vision of “America iz nisht andersh”, please visit: raisethon.com/oyyl

A special thank you to:
TOP Team:
Ariella Shapiro
Tomer Ratzabi Bar
Eitan Haioun
Ben Pellin

Screens: Shmaryahu Hackner
Sound: Yossi Cohen