FROM THE FLORIDA COUNCIL
We can’t believe it’s already been a week since we hosted the Florida Chapter’s inspiring First Annual ELEM Luncheon! This powerful event brought over 200 friends, family, and sponsors together to learn about ELEM’s life saving work with youth in Israel. We were thrilled by the reception ELEM received here in South Florida, and it was wonderful to see our mission resonating so deeply with the community.
The event opened with a gallery exhibit featuring photos of ELEM’s youth, impactful statistics, and highlights of our work with at-risk teens. The display included a beautiful photo of a mother and child in ELEM’s Young Mothers’ Program, the impact of HaLev (The Heart) Haifa and its urgent need for a bomb shelter, a memorial to the Anashim Tovim (Good People) workers killed at the Nova Festival, and impressive numbers about ELEM’s 50+ programs, 1000+ volunteers, and reach to over 12,500 youth per year.
We kicked off the luncheon with a beautiful, musical opening by Rabbi Danielle Bensimhon accompanied by pianist Devra Seidel. We then heard from Ivan Goldstein, president of the Jewish Heritage Club of Valencia Pointe, who generously sponsored the luncheon. Mr Goldstein graciously welcomed all guests and introduced American Friends of ELEM President Lenore Ruben, who gave us an overview of ELEM.
We then enjoyed a delicious, kosher catered lunch, before the second portion of the luncheon. American Friends of ELEM CEO Liora Attias-Hadar introduced a video by New York Consul General to Israel Ofir Akunis, who spoke about the collaboration between the Israeli government and some of ELEM’s programs. This was followed by a moving video featuring traumatized and displaced Israeli teenagers, who shared their compelling stories of finding hope and support in ELEM’s programs.
One of the most memorable moments came with the keynote speech by Renana Danon, ELEM’s Assistant Director of Clinical Training, who traveled all the way from Israel to speak with our community. Renana shared ELEM’s unique trauma-informed approach to supporting displaced and traumatized youth during the ongoing war. She highlighted ELEM’s “Breathing Spaces” program, which provides immediate, in-person support to evacuated teens, creating safe, supportive environments for youth grappling with immense upheaval.
After Renana’s speech, Florida Chapter Co-President Amit Eisinger invited guests to learn more about American Friends of ELEM, and introduced ELEM Florida Council members, including Co-President Phyllis Roberts. Melissa Berenson then opened up a lively auction for an original Romero Britto painting, won by one lucky bidder! Laura Goodman then proceeded to announce the winners of all the incredible assortment of raffle items that were made possible thanks to generous donations from local businesses.
The luncheon closed with a message from event co-chair Sindy Greenberg, who thanked everyone for attending and announced the official launch of the Florida Chapter of ELEM. Sindy invited the entire community to join this exciting and meaningful Florida Chapter and informed all that further details would be coming soon.
It was truly an incredible event, and we’re grateful to the Valencia Pointe Community, our sponsors, community members, and partners for making it such a success. Many guests entered with little or no prior knowledge of ELEM, but left with an open mind and heart, inspired by the impact of ELEM’s work.
We invite you to join the Florida Chapter to learn more about ELEM, make local friends, enjoy special events, and make a difference in the lives of Israeli youth. You can join now by:
• Use our online form to join instantly
• Download our paper form to mail in your membership form and dues
• Learn more by emailing [email protected] or calling (561) 536-3503.
