The 2011 8th Annual Gala Dinner Raises $500,000 in support for our soldiers!
On Saturday evening, November 19, supporters and friends of the Westchester/Connecticut Chapter of Friends of the IDF gathered together at the 8th Annual Gala Dinner. More than 300 people attended the gala at the Rye Town Hilton, showing their support for the soldiers of the IDF. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the attendees, as well as some who weren’t able to join us in person at the dinner, more than $500,000 was raised to fund programs and services that enhance the wellbeing of the brave young men and women who defend the Jewish Homeland.
We were privileged to hear from keynote speaker British Colonel Richard Kemp, a devoted Israel advocate and supporter of the IDF soldiers, as well as our honoree Rabbi Mark S. Golub, president and CEO of Shalom TV, America’s first national Jewish television network. We welcomed active-duty IDF soldiers Master Sergeant Levy and First Lieutenant Rubenstein, whose stories and experiences illustrate the profound impact of FIDF’s programs in promoting the wellbeing of the brave soldiers of the IDF. The evening closed with an energetic and fun performance by YouTube sensation The Maccabeats, Yeshiva University’s all-male a cappella group.
This year, the Westchester/Connecticut Chapter launched a two-year, $1 million campaign to support a number of FIDF initiatives. Among these are the Wellbeing Center at Mishmar HaNegev Base for the Givati Infantry Brigade, giving soldiers a place to unwind, relax, work out and have a respite from combat training; the DIGNITY Program, providing essential aid in the form of financial assistance, food vouchers, holiday gifts, appliances and furniture for soldiers in-need and Lone Soldiers; and SPIRIT R&R Weeks for five combat battalions, giving the soldiers a chance to recharge their batteries and enjoy the company of fellow soldiers.
Because of the community’s strong, united and generous support, this year we can do even more to provide for these deserving and courageous young men and women of the IDF!
For more information on how to get involved with the Westchester/CT Chapter, please contact Deborah Trimble at
Deborah.Trimble@fidf.org or 646-274-9669.
Back to Westchester / Connecticut