250+ students and community gathered last night at Illini Chabad and over 125 more parents and alumni gathered on zoom to hear from Rom El-Hai, a 29 year-old IDF reserve soldier from Natanya, Israel and survivor of the massacre of Simchas Torah, as he shared his story of courage and perseverance.
Rom gave a firsthand account of he and his friend leading many concert goers away from the terrorist to safety. His emotional and painful story of resilience, determination and strength in the face of the devastating October 7th attack, was heart wrenching and transformative. He spoke about his family, and details and images of that fateful day, followed by questions from the audience.
He shared powerful thoughts on the importance of standing tall, walking like a Jew across campus, not allowing the haters to control how you live.
The event also included concluded with an energizing singing of Am Yisroel Chai.
Two wars are going on now in the world, one in Israel and one on US college campuses, Illini Chabad is working hard, on the forefront to make sure every students feels safe, feels proud, feels connected.
Illini Chabad is holding a campaign today to raise funds for this crucial work.
The theme is reflective of what Illini Chabad and its Shluchim Rabbi Dovid and Goldie Tiechtel have been doing for over 20 years. Creating a home for all students. A place where all can feel safe, grow in their Yiddishkeit, and connect to the Jewish Community.
Please donate now: www.charidy.com/jewishillini
