ORAH Winter 2024

WINTER 2024

ORAH CHW stands in solidarity with Israel now and always.

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EMERGENCY APPEAL OVER $3 MILLION

RAISED TO DATE Yo u r i m m e d i a t e r e s p o n s e s a v e d lives and provided hope.

thank you Our heartfelt gratitude to the more than 1,400 donors who supported our Emergency Appeal, who gave so generously and many with multiple donations. We are grateful for the remarkable way the CHW family responded.

ORAH Magazine winter 2024

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Ta b l e o f CONTENTS

ORAH WINTER 2024

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FeatureS 8

Generations

12 CHW Change Makers 14 Incoming Board of Directors 21 A Beautiful Friendship 39 Donor Recognition 43 CHW Fiscal Report 44 CHW Mission on Israel’s Road to Recovery 46 CHW Shuk and Coast to Coast

CHW’s IMPACT These pages include project updates, impact report, project visits, personal stories, and war efforts.

16 Michal Sela Canines 18 Franny’s Fund 22 Safety Net 24 Hadassah Hospital 26 Shamir Medical Center 30 Nahalal Youth Village 32 Hadassim Children and Youth Village 35 Neri Bloomfield Academy of Design 38 Tech19 Social Impact Investing 40 Hadassah Academic College 42 Netanya Technological High School

You can also read current and past issues of ORAH magazine online at chw.ca/about/orah 4

PUBLISHER Canadian Hadassah-WIZO (CHW) CREATIVE TEAM Rebecca Bowslaugh Daniel Pike Melanie Miles CONTRIBUTORS Alanna Elias Sharon Stern NATIONAL PRESIDENT Lynn Gillman IMMEDIATE PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT Elayna Latsky BOARD OF DIRECTORS Marcia Glick Dorothy Hanson Jeannette Hoffman Shanna Mittleman Barb Rosenstein Ariella Schachter Linda Senzilet Tova Train CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Lisa Colt-Kotler The articles which appear in ORAH Magazine, while representing the opinions of the authors (or issuing agencies), may not necessarily reflect the official views of Canadian Hadassah-WIZO (CHW). We welcome any letters or comments regarding the contents of ORAH Magazine.

Printed in Canada.

CANADIAN HADASSAH-WIZO (CHW) National Office 209-638A Sheppard Avenue West Toronto, ON M3H 2S1 Telephone: 416-477-5964 Toll-Free: 1-855-477-5964 Fax: 416-477-5965 Email: info@chw.ca Web: www.chw.ca

IN SOLIDARITY As we write this message to you it is with a heavy heart.

I hope by the time you read our message, the news from Israel is brighter with glimmers of light flooding the country, providing hope and security for its citizens and soldiers.

serving vulnerable women, children, and their families.

We are deeply grateful to the Azrieli Foundation for their significant gift of $1.5 million to the campaign.

Our gratitude is extended to the many donors whose support will save lives. Todah Rabah for your generosity.

In November, we embarked on a one-week national tour of our major centres in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, and Toronto. Traversing across Canada, in support of our Emergency Appeal, was even more significant because we were joined by Anita Friedman, World WIZO Chairperson. Together, we met donors, inspired volunteers, and shared updates about Israel, WIZO’s impact to support the most vulnerable, and highlighted CHW’s role in changing lives, providing hope, and building futures.

One of the most meaningful strengths of CHW has always been a bond between generations. An organization that was founded by visionary women over 100 years ago, CHW’s ability to connect volunteers from generation to generation, linking together grandmothers, mothers, and their daughters continues to sustain us even today. We have highlighted a few volunteer stories in this edition, women who are connected to CHW as a family, giving of their time, talent, and treasure.

Since our last ORAH so much has changed in just a few hours, days, and months. This past fall, we were set to kick off CHW’s second Journey 4 Impact trip of a lifetime which was unavoidably postponed. The horrors of October 7 are forever etched in our minds and the resilience of the Jewish people in Israel and the diaspora are stronger than ever. We must stand as one nation now more than ever before. The diaspora stands in solidarity with Israel and CHW’s support is unwavering in our commitment to fund our Israeli partners.

Our successful 2023 S.O.S - Starting Over Safely summer campaign raised an unprecedented $557,000. Your generous philanthropy will empower victims of domestic violence to help break the cycle of violence. We hope you’ll read the stories about those whose lives are impacted by your generosity.

The global rise of anti-Semitism has magnified how marginalized we feel as Jews here in Canada. This has created a shift and growing support for CHW that is felt through the hundreds of new donors making gifts to our Emergency Appeal campaign and through the many volunteers of all ages, looking to join existing chapters or start new chapters.

The Emergency Appeal was launched within hours of the news of the massacre and since its launch, CHW has received an outpouring of support for our three key Israeli partners on the front lines of the war. Hadassah Hospital and Shamir Medical Center are working around the clock to provide emergency care, rehabilitation, and support psychological healing. WIZO is protecting and

Lynn Gillman National President

CHW continues to move forward to meet the needs of a new generation of donors and volunteers while safeguarding our roots. Our organization is everchanging and evolving to increase engagement, impact, and to ensure our future. To learn more about our advancements and impact, we hope you will read your ORAH cover to cover. To save costs, we have combined our Annual Impact Report with this winter edition of ORAH. Going forward you will continue to receive a combined January ORAH and a mini mid-year ORAH during the summer.

Everything we do is possible with your steadfast support and for that we are so very grateful.

Thank you for your philanthropy today and always.

Am Israel Chai.

Lisa Colt-Kotler Chief Executive Officer

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SUPPORT CHW Your generosity allows Canadian Hadassah-WIZO (CHW) to support education, healthcare, and social services, benefiting women and children in Israel and in Canada.

You can contribute to CHW in many ways: • Support a campaign • Monthly giving • Cards and Certificates • Join our Legacy Circle • Support a fundraiser

• Fund a project in Israel • Participate in a mission • Attend an event • Volunteer and join a chapter or committee

OUR VISION We strive to excel at creating impact through our projects and programs in Israel and Canada. We aspire to be recognized as leaders by our members and friends, donors, partners and our beneficiaries in Israel and Canada.

We strongly believe that every human being deserves to achieve their full potential, while living in safety and security.

Our support of excellence in education, innovation in research, advancement in healthcare, safeguarding of social services, and investment in our beneficiaries, will create global impact, improve lives, and provide hope.

By providing donors and volunteers with a vehicle to effect meaningful change through their philanthropy, CHW enables its supporters to make the world a better place.

CHW Changes Lives, Provides Hope, and Builds Futures.

For over 100 years, CHW has made a positive and lasting impact on the very fabric of Israeli society by transforming the lives of women and children.

Photo Credit: Mickey Noam Alon

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

SUBSCRIBE to our NATIONAL and CENTRE NEWSLETTERS and FOLLOW US on social media. Contact CHW National Office: info@chw.ca

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For more information on our CHW projects scan the QR codes with your phone, or visit CHW.CA

CURRENT CHW P R O J E C TS I N C A N A DA •

Across Canada - Canadian Young Judaea programs and camps

•

- Franny’s Fund

Calgary - Annual Holiday Toy Drive in support of Jewish Family Service Calgary, Alberta Children’s Hospital, and Franny’s Fund.

- Scholarships and Bursaries

CURRENT CHW P R O J E C TS I N I S R A E L EDUCATION:

HEALTHCARE:

• CHW Hadassim Children and Youth Village - The Lea Zev Shilman & Joseph Zunia Shilman Therapeutic Program

• Hadassah Hospital, Mt. Scopus - Large Hydrotherapy Pool at the Gandel Rehabilitation Center

• CHW Nahalal Children and Youth Village - The Ruth and Fredz”l Cooperstock Dairy Farm

• Shamir Medical Center - Psychological treatment and therapeutic recovery

• CHW Netanya Technological High School - Culinary Arts Program • CHW Neri Bloomfield Academy of Design - Department of Fashion Design • Hadassah Academic College (HAC) - The Blender Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

SOCIAL SERVICES: • World WIZO - Safety Net - Essentials Kits - Respite Summer Camp • Michal Sela Forum - The Michal Sela Canines Project

CHW.CA/CHW-IN-CANADA

CHW.CA/EDUCATION

CHW.CA/HEALTHCARE

CHW.CA/SOCIAL-SERVICES ORAH Magazine winter 2024

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G E N E R AT I O N S

Philanthropy and generosity often run in the family, and so does supporting CHW. We are an organization of women through the generations.

Grandmothers, mothers, and daughters, working together to effect meaningful change and create global impact.

You are our family, and together, we are changing the world.

“

CHW has been an important part of every stage of my life and has been an integral part of my children’s lives.

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MEET THE

Morris Family Sheryl and Kyra Morris (pictured left with Grandma Morris) share a little about their history with CHW.

SHERYL: For us CHW is generational. My mother was involved in Hadassah, and as a newlywed I started a young women’s chapter to connect with other young Jewish women. The friendships I made are lifelong and CHW is the glue that holds us together. CHW has been an important part of every stage of my life and has been an integral part of my children’s lives.

As an educator my strongest connection is to the projects centered around children. The Judy Mandleman Vancouver Daycare Centre holds a special place in our families’ hearts. That connection was strengthened when I visited in person and saw how our volunteer work resulted in developing the social and emotional well-being of children.

KYRA: Hadassah Hospital also means a lot to us.

The medical center treats and saves so many lives regardless of race or religion. It is truly amazing.

My mom went to see it in Israel and it was very inspiring to me that her CHW plaques are on the walls.

SHERYL: As a young girl I would go after school to meet my mom who was volunteering at the Hadassah Bazaar. Her chapter made the best chicken soup! I later went on to chair the Bazaar, and it became an important family event. It went full circle as my children came to visit me and

my mom after school at the Bazaar. The Bazaar brought the whole community together.

KYRA: It’s funny, my mom and I have the same memory but from a different generational perspective. My mom chaired many Hadassah Bazaars. Every year she’d be interviewed on the news and I’d watch on TV before school. As a kid, I loved exploring the booths after school and seeing the crowds sort through the wears. I loved seeing my mom lead this event that raised so much money for women, children, and healthcare in Israel and Canada.

SHERYL: I have always tried to lead by example.

We wanted our children to learn that donating time was as important as monetary donations. My children became life members at a very young age and CHW played a major role in our family. Kyra donated to CHW Vancouver Centre in honor of her Bat Mitzvah and Jonah’s Tikkun Olam project in Grade 6 benefited CHW. We set an example of hard work and showed our children that volunteering brings meaning, perspective, and is, most of all, very rewarding.

KYRA: My parents always set an example for us and taught us the importance of Zionism and giving back to our local communities and Israel.

Seeing the impacts of our donations fills my heart.

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“

Rebeck and I are likeminded in that way. At the end of the day, you just support Israel.

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MEET THE

TRAIN Family

Rebecca and Tova Train (pictured above with Rebecca’s children Millie and Zoey) are basically a comedy duo.

TOVA: The idea of bringing community together in a fun way, energizes all of us. My parents instilled that in me. I’ve been with Tamid [Chapter] maybe 15-20 years. It’s a great group of really singleminded women. I landed in a really good place.

REBECCA: I remember going to the Bazaar. It was super fun to go with the grownups early in the morning when it was cold and dark out.

TOVA: I think you’ve made some really nice connections. It’s a nice group. It’s always been part of our family culture, to give back and volunteer and to support. We have all taken up the charge and said, “Okay, what can we do?” If we didn’t volunteer, I don’t think we would feel like we were connected. We are quite drawn to the projects for children and education.

TOVA: She would have been around 13. Right Becks?

REBECCA: I agree. And the healthcare projects.

It’s definitely been something that speaks to us more now that I have Zoey and Millie.

REBECCA: The math adds up. Not that my math is so good.

TOVA: It’s what we do in our family. What’s that Hebrew phrase Rebecca?

TOVA: Didn’t you work at the booth and they taught you how to look for counterfeit bills?

REBECCA: Ein li eretz aheret.

REBECCA: Yes, and I thought every bill was counterfeit after that. Seven years ago, mom introduced me to Joanna and I joined Rimon [Chapter]. We have a group chat going to schedule meetings, check in with each other, wish each other happy birthday, that kind of thing.

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TOVA: It means, “I have no other country.” We are staunch Zionists. We believe the country is our country and there are no alternatives. Rebeck and I are like-minded in that way. At the end of the day, you just support Israel.

“

We are so grateful to be fortunate enough that we can give back.

“

MEET THE

Ksienski Family L-R: Abbie Ksienski, Leanne Rzepa, Gail Ksienski, and Kayla Rzepa posing together at Fashion Blooms 2023.

GAIL: I’ve been with CHW in Calgary since 1971, but it wasn’t until after I retired that I really became actively involved. And my mother made me a lifetime member, so it’s in the family. We are very child oriented. I taught elementary school, and Leanne is a registered nurse with a specialty in lactation. We want to help women and children, so we support youth villages, daycares, Hadassah Hospital, we want to do our best to support those areas. We have CHW walks, and had a toy drive again in Calgary, and we are involved in Franny’s Fund. We are so grateful to be fortunate enough that we can give back.

LEANNE: My mom would invite me to some of the different events, but I was busy with work and with my kids when they were little. This past spring, I was one of the Fashion Blooms co-chairs, and I would say it was my big entrance to Hadassah.

Just seeing how many people showed up and how people were excited. That was really memorable.

GAIL: If my daughter is doing something to support CHW, especially to honor me, my mother, and our family, I’d have to be in the hospital first before I would miss that!

Also, one of my fond memories is of the fashion shows CHW hosted when I was a teenager. There was a lineup, people could hardly wait to go because it was something cool. And I remember it fondly because I got to be a model.

CHW was always dear to my heart because my mother was actively involved in the Lillian Freiman Chapter. My girls, Leanne and Abbie, and my daughter-in-law Cody - they’ve carried on the legacy. I have seven grandchildren, six of them are granddaughters, and they’re all lifetime CHW members.

LEANNE: I hosted a parlour event here at my house a couple of weeks ago, and it was just so nice to have Jewish women gathering together, talking about our feelings, talking about what’s going on in Israel right now. Just feeling united. And I think that’s really important right now and Hadassah definitely provides that and offers that to women.

My parents taught us about the importance of giving Tzedakah and helping those in need. That’s something that I’ve just always taken to heart, and I’ve tried to make that a part of my life and for my children, too.

DOES YOUR FAMILY HAVE A HISTORY WITH CHW ? WE’D LOVE TO HEAR IT! CONTACT INFO@CHW.CA ORAH Magazine winter 2024

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BE THE CHANGE

alicia thompson CALGARY

It was a beautiful thing to see, and foreshadowed future growth of the organization in Calgary.

I am proud of the volunteerism values my husband and I have passed on to our children, and am thrilled that my kids take ownership of their involvement whether it be in CHW or organizations of their own choosing. Volunteering is a fabulous legacy.

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KE

I love when my children and husband help out at our CHW events. My chapter has always had several “family” events over the years, and our family has become friends with numerous chapter members’ families as well.

CHA

shayla goldstein TORONTO

NGEMA

KER

NGEMA

CHA

CHA

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I had the honour of co-chairing Calgary’s 2023 Fashion Blooms Event. We had the goal of attracting new blood to the organization while highlighting the existing members. We succeeded at bringing generations of Jewish women together.

NGEMA

KE

NGEMA

KER

CHA

Knowing my “why” has really given me a motivation to volunteer.

“Why are you supporting CHW?” “Why are you passionate about your campaigns?” If you know your why the rest will all work out, and your contributions to the organization will speak for themselves.

BE THE CHANGE

R

KE

NGEMA

NGEMA

CHA

R

KER

CHA

CHA

My role as co-chairwoman coordinating monthly programs would not be possible without the devoted and accomplished group of women from diverse backgrounds committed to CHW‘s mission.

In addition, fostering friendships through in-person monthly meeting has been deeply rewarding.

NGEMA

KER

I joined the CHW Victoria Chapter in order to contribute to a charitable organization that supports healthcare, education and at-risk women and children in Canada and Israel.

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joan greiff VICTORIA

KE

NGEMA

zahava goldstein LONDON Volunteering with CHW has transformed my perspective on various aspects of life. The commonly held belief that "if you want something done right, do it yourself" is not always true. Working alongside other volunteers has shown me that our collective efforts can yield astonishing results.

Whether tackling causes in Israel or at home, we can achieve so much more as a team. As a new member of CHW, you'll appreciate our group's supportive and dynamic atmosphere. Seeing the positive impact of our hard work and friendship is incredibly fulfilling.

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2 0 2 3 - B OA R D O F D I R E C TO R S

INCOMING DIRECTORS CHW would like to thank Stephanie Rusen and Jennie Blitz for their dedicated service as CHW Directors.

We would now like to introduce two new Directors who joined the Board in November 2023.

Jeannette was born in 1946, in a displaced person’s camp in Italy. Her parents, Fay and Max Kifer, were survivors of Auschwitz and Bergen-Belsen concentration camps. She immigrated to Calgary, Alberta with her parents in 1948. She later attended universities in Calgary and Edmonton.

She married Bernie Hoffman in 1968. They were together for 52 years until his passing in 2021. Jeannette taught Junior High School in Calgary until she and Bernie moved to Red Deer with their two children, Tamara and Sam, in 1977. Bernie ran the hotel in Red Deer that he and his brothers had purchased. Jeannette worked in the hotel for many years until she opened her own chocolate and wedding shop in Red Deer.

Jeannette Hoffman Incoming CHW Director

In 1991 Jeannette, Bernie, and the family moved to Edmonton where they started Medichair, which later became independent under the name Medmobility. Jeannette still runs the company but takes time out to enjoy her four granddaughters.

She has been a CHW life member since 1985. Most recently she established a scholarship fund at Hadassah Academic College in memory of her parents.

She also chaired a mentorship program hosted by CHW in 2023.

Shanna Mittleman is a lawyer at Aaron Waxman and Associates, practising in Personal Injury, Disability, and Employment law.

Shanna has been a member of CHW for several years as a member of Toronto L’Netzach Chapter and has held the position of CHW Toronto L’Netzach Chapter President since 2021. Other roles within L’Netzach Chapter include Secretary and Fundraising Co-Chair.

Shanna Mittleman Incoming CHW Director

Shanna is honored to serve as a CHW Director and is looking forward to working with her colleagues across Canada to promote the goals of CHW in its support of education, healthcare, and social services for women and children in Israel and Canada.

Continuing CHW Directors: Lynn Gillman (National President), Marcia Glick, Dorothy Hanson, Elayna Latsky (Immediate Past National President) Barb Rosenstein, Ariella Schachter, Linda Senzilet, and Tova Train. To view their biographies, visit chw.ca/about/board-of-directors or scan the QR code.

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Thank you!

We are so grateful to have such generous volunteers and donors supporting us every single day.

With your help, we can change lives, provide hope, and build futures.

THANKS TO YOU, WE EXCEEDED OUR SUMMER CAMPAIGN GOAL AND RAISED OVER

$557,000!

In just 27 hours, the CHW community came together to help empower victims of domestic violence supported by Franny’s Fund, Michal Sela Forum, and WIZO services. Thank you to all our generous supporters and Matching Heroes for making this day such a success.

Your generosity provides medical and psychological support for women and girls in Israel.

CHW sends a heartfelt congratulations to CHW Toronto Tzedakah Chapter for 20 years of At Our Table. From its origins in two homes with 125 guests raising $30,000 to their most recent event with 250 guests, raising over $338,000, CHW Toronto Tzedakah Chapter’s 20th Anniversary At Our Table 2023 event was an enormous success! Their tireless support of CHW has raised an incredible $2.5 million for CHW projects over the last 20 years.

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ORAH Magazine Fall 2022

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Photo credit: Ben Kelmer

Mazel Tov!

Man’S o w BEST FRIEND CHW is a proud supporter of The Michal Sela Canines, which provides victims of domestic violence with lifesaving protection dogs.

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he product of domestic violence experts, legal experts, and experts from elite Israeli security units, Michal Sela Canines is the only long-term, mobile solution in existence for women at high risk of intimate partner violence.

There are hundreds of thousands of battered women in Israel. Domestic violence does not discriminate based on socio-economic status, religion, race, or ethnicity. This is a serious social issue that requires intervention and transformational change. Since March 2020, with the start of COVID19 and the accompanying quarantines and social and economic upheaval, women’s shelters have been overloaded. And now, with the war, families are facing the same hardships and increased risk of domestic violence.

Solutions such as shelters and restraining orders, while life-saving, are implemented only after something horrible has already happened.

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In addition, moving out of the family home and into a shelter is yet another traumatic experience for women and their children on top of an already traumatic experience.

Michal Sela Canines are a less expensive and more long-term, practical solution than shelters.

For women under constant threat of violence, even going to the grocery store or dropping their children off at school can be a source of fear and anxiety. The physical and emotional toll of constant terror becomes unbearable. The dog is a life-saving gift that gives the woman and her children quality of life, as well as physical and emotional security.

With their canine they can regain freedom of movement in their own communities and remain in their homes, at their jobs, and in their schools.

The dogs also provide emotional security and mitigate the deep loneliness and fear that accompanies domestic violence.

Five protection dogs will be provided to high-risk families this year thanks to the generosity of Tali Baum’s Birthday Appeal, Gina Grant, Brondell Shapiro, Anonymous, Judith & Philip Hooper, and everyone who donated to our S.O.S summer campaign.

A kindergarten teacher asked her class to describe their dream profession. Most boys answered, “to be a soccer star” or “to be a policeman,” but one special boy, who is growing up with a Michal Sela Canine, answered, “to be a dog trainer, because dog trainers help people.” Before receiving their Canine, his mother said he would often suffer from nightmares and anxiety.

Knowing that their dog is there to protect them is helping him sleep through the night for the first time in a very long time.

An UPDATE FROM MAPLE

An update on Maple, CHW’s first protection dog, funded in 2022 and first written about in ORAH, Spring 2023: Maple has become a treasured member of the family, sleeping with the children at night, accompanying them everywhere, even, recently, to the beach for a family fun day; something H. had been terrified to do with her children before receiving Maple. Thanks to your generous support, Maple and her family are safe from domestic violence and able to move forward together.

“I have a 12-year-old daughter and she sleeps with the dog every night. He is the only one who manages to wake her up in the morning. He licks her and jumps on her and that’s how she wakes up, with a smile. My older daughter experiences anxiety attacks, and thanks to the dog and his presence in our lives, her attacks have decreased dramatically. After the training I felt safe; the whole process has made me feel like I am in control of my life again not my ex. I am in control.”

CANINE SUCCESSES Michal Sela Canines are able to board public transportation!

Each woman with a Michal Sela Canine receives a card, which, when shown to public transportation authorities, allows them to board. This is lifechanging for the women; previously, they were scared to travel on public transport, and now, they can travel freely for work and for leisure.

We are also proud to announce that women are also allowed to enter Ofer Malls (a chain which operates 18 major malls throughout Israel) with their Michal Sela Canines. They can browse and shop with their children without fear.

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Th e I n va l uab l e S e rv i c e s of

Franny’s Fund

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ith the intent to further support the emerging and critical needs of children, youth, and families, Franny’s Fund provides victims and non-offending caregivers with financial support to access legal counsel or counselling services. These recipients are individuals who would otherwise be unable or ineligible to access community services and resources.

Franny’s Fund continues to be a valued resource to help children, youth, and families access timely therapeutic supports. During this past year, more generic counselling options have become available from the post-pandemic mental health response; however, for those who require access to specialized therapeutic interventions to navigate their domestic violence and sexual trauma history, Franny’s Fund has been an invaluable resource.

Positive outcomes from Franny’s Fund: • • • • 18

expanded multi-disciplinary team including legal counsel professionals improved collaborative and connective services for victims and families decreased barriers for clients and families to access additional services and supports increased access to services and supports for clients ORAH Magazine winter 2024

After a family exhausted their employee benefits getting their teenage daughter counselling after a peer-on-peer sexual assault, they were referred to Franny’s Fund. The mother said she has already seen progress in her child’s emotional state after only a couple of sessions.

After recently moving to Canada from Korea, a mother and her three children fled their home and charged the father with assault. None of them could speak English very well but were required to testify at trial. Franny’s Fund paid for an accredited interpreter to attend a court prep session with the family. This session helped the children understand what to expect in court and explained court processes and answered any questions they had. This was a crucial service for a family so unfamiliar with the justice system in Canada.

Thanks to your support, Franny’s Fund services are now available at locations across Canada: The Treehouse Vancouver Child & Youth Advocacy Centre, Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre and Homefront in Calgary, Boost Child and Youth Advocacy Centre in Toronto, Counselling and Family Service Ottawa, and Fondation Marie-Vincent in Montreal.

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YOU HAVE A GREAT STORY We give you a place to tell it.

Activating brands around the world or around the corner.

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I t h i n k t h i s i s t h e b e g i n n i n g of a

Beautiful friendship

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he Lions of Judah Israel (LOJI) are the Israel branch of the international organization “LIONS OF JUDAH”. There are local branches of the Lions of Judah across the world. While their general focus is on programs to support and empower girls and women in Israel, every two years the membership decides to focus on a specific area of activity.

Two members of LOJI, Laura Orzy and Rena Genn shared some information about their organization and why it is important to them to support at-risk women.

The LOJI seeks to develop social and philanthropic relationships with other Jewish womens’ organizations. As a supporter of both CHW and LOJI, Laura Orzy made a recommendation for both organizations to partner on a project whose philanthropic objectives are very similar to their own.

CHW suggested the Safety Net Project, and on Sunday, June 18, 2023, CHW accompanied eight members of LOJI to meet with participants and learn about WIZO’s Safety Net Program at the WIZO Center in Hadera.

The LOJI delegation heard from five women – all with their own personal story about overcoming violence. They each spoke about how Safety Net is providing them with the invaluable support needed to break the cycle of violence and provide a safe future for their families.

After the visit, LOJI agreed that the partnership is a natural fit with their current focus on employment advancement and economic independence for women in Israel. LOJI is supporting Safety Net through CHW’s S.O.S Campaign.

Through a pre-existing emergency fund and a special campaign, Lions of Judah Israel are supporting victims of terror and at-risk communities.

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voice

Photo credit: Ben Kelmer

Hava says Safety Net saved her life. She brought her two daughters to Safety Net during the pandemic, when she didn’t know where else to go. When her abusive ex-partner calls to speak about their children, she is now able to answer him and remain calm, even when he raises his voice. “He knows I know how to answer, which is the greatest feat – I learned how to hold my ground. I found my voice.”

Hava walks today with her head held high. She is no longer embarrassed to talk about the abuse she suffered. “My parents, my family, everyone knows what I went through, and I’m not embarrassed by it anymore.”

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omen who flee abusive situations with their children often end up in a shelter, but where do they go from there? In order to leave the shelter, these families require a helping hand to reclaim their lives and safely rebuild their community.

They face extreme emotional, legal, and social challenges.

That’s where Safety Net comes in. The Safety Net program assists these women by providing them with social and personal support. The goal of the program is to provide services that will ensure emotional support, financial independence, and parental empowerment.

And thanks to the generous support of donors like you, they are succeeding! Safety Net has nearly a 100% success rate breaking the cycle of violence and preventing victims from reentering an abusive relationship.

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The Safety Net program actively operates in nine communities throughout Israel, supporting 140 women and 280 children year-round.

Despite facing challenges posed by the war, the program expanded, integrating two new communities.

Commencing operations early in the year with 16 women and 20 children, the Nahariya location faced unique challenges due to its proximity to the Lebanon border. All meetings, workshops, and communications shifted to remote channels, utilizing phone calls and Zoom. Weekly group discussions continue to provide an essential platform for connection and support for the women.

SA F ET Y NET P R OV I D E S L I F E - C H A NG I NG S E RV I C E S F O R fam i l i e s : Children Engagement: Organized enriching activities fro 180 children, including animal-assisted therapy, creative workshops, movement exercises, and jewelrymaking sessions.

Occupational Empowerment: Conducted two employment workshops for employment rehabilitation and legal support for the women in Carmiel and Nahariya, training 12 women as mentors for employment assistance in Herzliya.

The war heightened trauma for women and children, exacerbating existing challenges. To prevent family crisis, Safety Net is providing extra support that addresses the specific challenges that arise during wartime: •

Immediate implementation of focused support modules - resilience workshops, trauma and emergency response - on a weekly basis, in group settings through Zoom, for organized groups.

•

Intensive collaboration with volunteers and professional women, who provide nonstandard hours of support and physical visits to women’s homes in times of crises.

•

Deployment of a relief program to enable women and children to meet their basic needs.

•

Legal assistance to address exploitation during this period by men, employers, layoffs, loss of rights, and handling various processes with institutions.

Financial Assistance: Provided financial support to 140 women through the provision of food baskets and vouchers, and school supply vouchers to 113 children.

Ongoing Activities: Conducted a wide array of workshops in all communities, including therapy and counselling, photography, parenting guidance, drama-based empowerment, mentorship and bonding activities, creative writing, and employment workshops.

“To the dear CHW team, thank you very much for the help you gave us during this difficult time, I could feel that we were not alone and I gained hope we could continue. The help we received was many and varied: messages of encouragement, phone calls asking: “how are you?” Food, clothes, games for the children and gift cards. Thank you for the warmth and kindness you offer us.

- Violetta and her children

(the original letter)

ORAH Magazine winter 2024

23

The local doctor said 18-month-old Moshe* just had a virus. His cheeks were red. But as his temperature kept rising and his vomiting continued, his mother Hedva* took him to an emergency clinic that sent them on to Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem, where Moshe was rushed to the Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care Unit. His heart was in trouble.

Moshe had to be continuously resuscitated and ended up on an ECMO to spare him from possible long-term neurological damage.

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ORAH Magazine winter 2024

“

“

I

n recent years, Hadassah Hospital’s Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care Unit (PCCCU) has embraced the Neo-Developmental Care approach, in alignment with top medical centres around the world. This approach is designed to address issues that are specific to neonates with congenital heart defects. Principles that are implemented include postponing major surgeries as long as possible, involving the parents in every step of the infant’s care, and minimizing the length of time spent attached to a ventilator or hospitalized in the unit.

“We have modeled our unit after the best, paying attention to each child’s overall well-being.

Our specialists protect the lifesustaining muscles of the patient’s heart, the tiny nerve cells that communicate with the heart to keep it pumping, and the families that support and nurture the child.

That’s what guides us at Hadassah.”

- Dr. Uri Pollak, Head of the PCCCU (pictured above with a young patient)

The family doctor was right that Moshe had a virus, specifically parvovirus or “slapped cheek virus,” which can be dangerous for young children. In Moshe’s case, the virus caused myocarditis, leading to heart failure.

Moshe spent four days on the heart-lung machine and remained in the hospital for additional care. Three weeks later, he returned home a healthy little boy. *Names changed to protect privacy.

The PCCCU at Hadassah is the only one of its kind in Jerusalem and one of only three PCCCUs in all of Israel.

1,100+ 220 150 25 16 4

Your generous support of our Emergency Appeal enabled the purchase of vital equipment for Hadassah Hospital. Since the start of the war, the hospital has treated almost 300 patients, including severely wounded trauma victims and individuals suffering from PTSD. The hospital is providing psychological support for

displaced families in addition to the intensive psychological support that is provided to Hadassah’s overburdened staff members.

This placed immense strain on the healthcare system, and the need for emergency equipment.

Given the high demand for rehabilitation, it is now critical to expedite the completion and equipping of the new Gandel Rehabilitation Center. Roughly one-third of the thousands of wounded will require specialized rehabilitation.

Th e b e at i n g of

TINY HEARTS CHW funded four isolation rooms for the Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care Unit (PCCCU) at Hadassah Hospital through our BREATHE LIFE GIVE LOVE 2022 and 2023 campaigns.

admissions per year - an increase of 200+ patients

open-heart surgeries conducted

catheterization procedures performed

ECMO-assisted cases

beds in the PCCCU - after CHW helped fund four new patient rooms

dedicated, on-staff pediatric cardiac interventionalists at the PCCCU 24/7

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his past July, Freya and Lewis Wasel and Freda and Marvin Abugov of Edmonton visited Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem.

The two couples came to Israel for a wedding and have been to Israel 11 times before; however, this was their first visit to Hadassah Hospital.

They originally came to see the Chagall windows, but enjoyed their two-hour guided tour of the hospital’s expansion, key departments and CHW-supported projects.

ORAH Magazine winter 2024

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Th e k i n d of car e t hat mak e s you

Breathe easy

The newly updated Institute of Pulmonary Functions and Diseases has reached a new level of patient care.

6,972 4,227 623

visits to the new Pulmonary Institute patients treated

invasive tests conducted

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he Institute of Pulmonary Functions and Diseases at Shamir Medical Center treats patients suffering from respiratory, lung, and lung functions diseases.

This year, the Institute opened the doors to its newly renovated facility, thanks to your generosity. Patients continue to enjoy the exceptional personal care for which the department is renowned, now in bright, modernized facilities. Not a single day goes by without a patient or family member expressing appreciation for the renovated facility. Likewise, the department staff feels more valued working in an enjoyable and functioning environment.

Thanks to your support, the department was able to purchase indispensable equipment, including an Argon Plasma and electro-cautery system used to control bleeding in the airways and in endo-bronchial procedures, and a second endobronchial ultrasound probe to increase capacity of treatment.

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ORAH Magazine winter 2024

Department Head, Professor Benjamin Fox, was appointed Associate Professor of Medicine at Tel Aviv University, and the department’s Dr. Sivan Perl was appointed as the National Lead Physician for Tuberculosis in the Ministry of Health – two prestigious advancements.

CHW supported the new Pulmonary Institute through our BREATHE LIFE GIVE LOVE 2022 and 2023 campaigns. Project funding is now almost complete, and we will soon be focusing on psychological recovery and treatment.

“The Pulmonary Institute continues to grow and having a new, clean, and functional working environment has been a key factor in boosting morale and maintaining our high level of patient satisfaction. Thank you to CHW for making this possible.”

Dr. Benjamin Fox, Pulmonary Department Head

Joseph and Ella Rozensky were visiting their daughter and grandchildren in Holit when terrorists infiltrated the kibbutz. The entire family hid in the safe room for hours, until the terrorists broke into the home and started shooting through the safe room door, injuring Ella, Joseph, and six-year-old granddaughter Ofek.

Trapped and injured, they sent pictures of their gunshot and shrapnel wounds to a paramedic who instructed them how to stop the bleeding until help arrived. Once finally rescued, Ella and Ofek were rushed by helicopter to Shamir Medical Center. Ofek was treated in the PICU

and will recover fully. Ella, who lost a lot of blood, has a longer road to recovery, but is receiving all her care at Shamir. After 40 days apart (Joseph was being treated elsewhere), Ella and Joseph were finally reunited.

Ella and Ofek in recovery.

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As the primary hospital for patients flown in directly from the battlefield, Shamir Medical Center (SMC) activated a mass casualty triage protocol, treating 420 patients since the early hours of October 7. Located just 37 miles from the Gaza border, more than 11,500 rockets were fired in the airspace above the hospital.

The hospital opened its secure underground emergency hospitalization space (pictured above), where it transferred 150 patients in critical condition from unprotected wards.

multitude of victims. SMC also established a patient information centre for family members, initiated a national centre for the conjoined treatment of PTSD – combining psychological and psychiatric treatment with groundbreaking hyperbaric oxygen therapy, launched a state-ofthe-art surgical training centre for doctors from IDF elite units, conducted dozens of operations to save sperm from young IDF victims and civilians, and treated 24 hostages released after more than 50 days in Hamas’ captivity.

The hospital expanded its ER and surgical facilities with additional medical teams to provide adequate care for the

With your generosity, the hospital was able to purchase essential equipment to treat the hundreds of patients and complex injuries.

Equipment included advanced ultrasound machines, mobile eco systems, X-ray and imaging units, negative pressure devises for treating trauma wounds caused by gunshots or shrapnel, non-gas ventilators, diathermy devices for tissue coagulation during surgery, and more.

“

“

“Our ER and emergency hospital are crucial components of the Shamir Medical Center, especially in such times of crisis, and its contribution to saving lives cannot be overstated.”

Dr. Osnat Levtzion-Korach, Director General of Shamir Medical Center

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ORAH Magazine winter 2024

(pictured left with released Thai hostage)

The massacre and Israel-Hamas war that followed created unprecedented tragedies and an entire population that is deeply traumatized. Israel will be healing from October 7, 2023 for years to come.

Trauma, if left untreated, can lead to debilitating and long term psychological, emotional, and physical consequences. ONE DAY AT A TIME, CHW’s Annual Campaign will support physical rehabilitation and psychological recovery at Hadassah Hospital and Shamir Medical Center.

ONE nation, ONE family, ONE future.

Supporting each other to rebuild and heal together.

LAUNCHING SPRING 2024

ORAH Magazine winter 2024

29

F rom t h e c l assroom

into the fields

CHW Nahalal Youth Village has been providing a unique educational experience to youth for over 100 years.

N

ahalal is home to a variety of students, from neighbouring towns, across Israel, and youth who made Aliyah alone without their families in the Na’aleh Program.

The Ruth and Fred Cooperstock Dairy Farm is central to the village, serving as both a therapeutic and educational facility for all students, and a key method of income for Nahalal. With the generous support of Ruth and Fredz”l Cooperstock, the dairy farm will now undergo a massive renovation and expansion to increase milk production, establish a cheeseproducing kitchen and a visitors center, and increase the economic stability of the village. z”l

In 2022, Nahalal saw an increase in income from milk sales, which rose from 700,000 to 1 million litres annually. With the renovation and expansion of the dairy farm, Nahalal will reach upwards of 1.2 million litres of milk annually, tending to 150 cows and calves.

There are 60 students in the Nahalal Tech Program this year, the academic flagship of CHW Nahalal for the past 10 years. This program fuels STEM studies and offers elite programming for academically strong youth, through their studies at university. Students benefit from interdisciplinary studies among the sciences, music, sports, aeronautics, and robotics.

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ORAH Magazine winter 2024

The program also focuses on developing leadership skills through community activism, agricultural and farm work, and social activities.

The program has increased the standard of education at Nahalal in both mathematics and the sciences, and garnered the interest by other schools in adopting the model nationwide, adding to its prestige. CHW is deeply appreciative to an anonymous donor for their generous gift to fund the program for four years.

Participants in the Nahalal Tech Program benefit from supplementary activities and enrichment programming, provided by CHW: • • • • • • •

Preparatory program for the successful completion of the psychometric exam Three-year university courses in drones, software, and general engineering Pedagogical supervisor assisting the students academically Day trips, music classes, and other extracurricular activities Therapeutic horseback riding, art therapy, and other activities by certified social workers Loaned equipment, such as computers, cell phones, bicycles, and musical instruments Post-graduate living stipends to help graduates achieve greater independence

1,000,000

litres of milk are produced annually in the dairy farm

1,746

students attend the high school at CHW Nahalal

297

youth live in the boarding school

104

students in the Na’aleh Program

100

cows and calves are cared for by students in the dairy farm

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students in the Nahalal Tech Program

One month after assuming her role as Director of Nahalal Youth Village, Galia Alef was asked to expel a student who, according to his instructor, was a lost cause. Galia said there is no such thing and met with Or Ziv. His parents adopted him as an infant and he arrived at Nahalal after having been thrown out of previous schools for academic, behavioral, and emotional “problems.”

Galia took Or under her wing and not only did he complete his high school studies, he went onto serve in the tank unit of the IDF, completing his service with excellence.

Or returned to Nahalal after his military service to serve as a youth instructor so he could give back to the place that gave him so much. On October 7, Or went to the Nova Music Festival where he was brutally murdered

by Hamas terrorists.

After his funeral, Or’s mother thanked Galia for “being the one person who believed in him.”

Or was 24 years old. May his memory be a blessing.

Nahalal has played an integral part in the national effort since October 7, absorbing displaced families and soldiers in its boarding school and opening up its facilities to non-profit organizations in need of space to coordinate efforts.

Nahalal’s Dairy Farm manager created an instructional website and video for the hundreds of volunteers who took over care in the dairy farms in the south after the residents of the kibbutzim were evacuated. The video was instrumental in training the volunteers about how to care for the cows.

Nahalal students also stepped up to help.

Many local farmers were called to reserve duty, and many workers fled the country in fear of Hamas attack, so 200+ Nahalal youth volunteered to work in the fields and groves. These teens would wake up before sunrise, be bussed to the farms at 6 a.m. and do hard physical labour until the afternoon - and then sign up to do it again the next day.

CHW Nahalal lost four graduates on October 7. Left to right below: Staff Sergent Shalev Baranes, killed on October 7 at the age of 20; Ben Bernstein, killed at the Nova Music Festival on October 7 at the age of 23.; IDF Major Ilay Zieser, killed defending the kibbutzim on October 7 at the age of 27. Read more about the fourth lost graduate, Or Ziv, on the left. May their memories be a blessing.

A fou n dat i o n for commu n i cat i o n to

rebuilD families

CHW Hadassim Children and Youth Village provides an exceptional and inclusive educational experience.

O

ver the past year, CHW continued its support for The Lea Zev Shilman & Joseph Zunia Shilman Therapeutic Programs, ensuring 100% of the youth at the village receive ongoing counselling, and emotional and therapeutic support tailored to their specific needs.

The goal of the program is to develop and support a healthy relationship and partnership between youth, their parents, the youth village, and the community through collaborative activities, guidance, and training. The main emphasis is for parents to become an integral part of their child’s life.

In the past year, 100 high-risk families have significantly improved their relationship thanks to your support of this program.

The majority of children at the boarding school come from difficult home environments. Many families experience challenges after a crisis, such as the death of a parent, divorce, financial difficulties, or addiction issues.

As the Program Director Ariel Moskowitz put it:

“You need to find the slivers of light and work from there.”

The therapeutic program is comprised of parent group therapy, one-on-one therapy sessions, and parent-child group and individual meetings.

The group therapy is an extremely important element in the parents’ therapy process. Once a week, for an entire year, two trained therapists facilitate meetings. Each parent comes with their own personal story, nearly all with difficult backgrounds. The group therapy provides the parents a safe space to share their story without judgment and becomes a support system.

Working on their individual issues in the group therapy and one-on-one sessions, the therapists begin developing personalized connections to parenting, ultimately reconnecting the parent with their child through activities and communication. This is a slow and personal process.

CHW Hadassim Youth Village took in the families of four students who were evacuated from the south. In addition, students donated blood, helped local farmers in their fields and groves, and packed and delivered care packages for soldiers.

Lieutenant Gabriel Zalskowski, CHW Hadassim graduate, was one of the first IDF soldiers who fought in the difficult battles in Kibbutz Alumim on October 7. In a breathtaking monologue in an Israeli news segment, Gabriel referred to his sense of purpose and justice, and acceptance of the high cost of his mission.

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ORAH Magazine winter 2024

Three years ago, 13-year-old Noa* arrived at CHW Hadassim Children and Youth Village boarding school. Noa’s mother, Sarah*, was an alcoholic, and her father was severely ill. Neither of them could provide a stable home. After years of neglect, Noa was extremely closed off, suffering from an eating disorder and separation anxiety.

She refused therapy.

Sarah never wanted Noa to come home on the weekends, and after her father passed away, Noa’s sense of loneliness became unbearable.

The support staff at Hadassim stepped in and Noa began meeting with a social worker. They realized that to really help Noa heal, they would also need to help Sarah. The staff referred her to a rehabilitation program, and after she was sober, began the therapeutic process with Sarah and Noa.

Today, Noa spends the weekends at home with her mother. They spend time together, shopping and talking. After spending the two-week Sukkot holiday at home, Noa said her mother listens to her now. It is not always easy, but Sarah knows to pick up the phone and consult with the therapist whenever a situation arises.

Thanks to your support of the therapeutic program at Hadassim, Sarah and Noa have a foundation for communication and are rebuilding their family. *Names changed

to protect privacy.

Thanks to the parental group therapy, Sarah opened up and shared the traumas she experienced in her life, and the regret she felt for having brought Noa into this world.

At first, Sarah did not want to meet with her daughter because she felt guilty and ashamed.

The Therapeutic Music Program at Hadassim provides youth from diverse and often-times disadvantaged backgrounds with the opportunity to develop their musical talents in a supportive and nurturing environment. Music is an excellent outlet for creativity and self-expression, and helps cultivate interests, abilities, self-esteem, and social leadership.

This year, 102 students participated in music enrichment classes, focused on mastering instruments, playing in a band, singing in a choir, and recording in sound studios.

The results of this program are evident in its students and graduates. This year, student B. Eli Tain, a musician in the philharmonic orchestra, won a merit scholarship to the Kfar Saba Conservatory. Graduate Michel Shimanov made it to the second stage in the “Next Star” Eurovision competition.

Graduate Ambar Teitelbaum is serving her pre-army service year in the “Cultural Movement,” a social movement in the field of culture, education, art, and employment to establish a permanent community of young artists in the periphery as part of the pioneering Zionist mission.

S TAFF U P DAT E S Eli Bezalel has been appointed Director of CHW Hadassim Children and Youth Village.

Brig. Gen. (res.) Dror Plateen has been selected as the new Hadassim high school principal.

ORAH Magazine winter 2024

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ORAH Magazine winter 2024

Th e C H A N C E AT

A BRIGHTER FUTURE

CHW provides vital scholarships for at-risk students at Neri Bloomfield Academy of Design in Israel.

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our generous support of, and participation in, CHW FASHION BLOOMS events across Canada supports the CHW Neri Bloomfield Academy of Design in Haifa. This support has dramatically improved the level of the studies, quality of teachers and guides, capabilities of the students, and indeed the reputation of the college itself.

The Neri Bloomfield Academy plays a crucial role in expanding access to higher education in Israel’s northern periphery. Two-thirds of the student body are women, and many of the students come from low socioeconomic communities who want to excel. These scholarships are instrumental to ensure these students can pursue a college degree.

CHW provided advanced, high-quality equipment, including a laser-cutting machine, 3D printers, digital embroidery machine, advanced digital sewing machines, and a digital loom machine. With the support of the Eldee Foundation, CHW provides access to higher education for those who otherwise cannot afford it, elevates student academic achievement, and advances students’ future career options.

The Neri Bloomfield Academy is merging with the University of Haifa in 2024. The college will retain the legendary Neri Bloomfield name and continue to offer degrees in architecture, environmental and educational design, fashion design, graphic design, and photography and visual communication under Haifa University’s Faculty of Design. Prof. Lea Peretz has been appointed as Dean of the School.

“I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the generous scholarship I received from CHW. Since being awarded this scholarship, I have experienced a remarkable transformation in my academic journey. The financial support has significantly eased the burden of educational expenses, allowing me to focus more on my studies and pursue my passion for fashion design wholeheartedly.

I was able to invest in essential design materials, such as fabrics, art supplies, and specialized software, which have greatly enriched my learning experience.

Moreover, the scholarship has encouraged me to strive for excellence and has instilled a sense of confidence in my abilities and motivates me to work harder and continually push the boundaries of my creativity. As a result, I have achieved several notable accomplishments during my time as a fashion design student.

Here is a photo from one of my projects from my ‘Evening Gowns’ course. I spent three months searching for suitable materials.“ Mor Balaish, November 29, 2023

16 24 11

scholarships of excellence and financial need were awarded to select students thanks to the Eldee Foundation integral learning tools and materials were purchased with CHW support, advancing student learning and achievement

pieces of advanced, high-quality equipment were purchased, supporting students collegewide

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ORAH Magazine winter 2024

The Department of Fashion Design galvanized its lecturers, students, and graduates in doing what it does best: fashion design. At the request of the IDF, with materials purchased from donations raised in Israel, and using an industrial sewing machine acquired thanks to CHW, the department produced 5,000+ pieces of easy-access, multi-use backpacks, belts, pouches, and more, tailor-made for the specific needs of elite IDF combat units during times of war.

Remembering PINK’s Creative Spirit CHW mourns the loss of NBA student Inbar Haimanz”l Inbar Haiman was a 27-year-old art lover and graffiti artist, set to begin her 4th year of studies in Visual Communication at the Neri Bloomfield Academy of Design in Haifa.

Inbar was among the young, spirited music lovers at the Nova Music Festival October 7. Just before sunrise, as hundreds of rockets were fired from Gaza, Inbar took cover under the stage until festival security told everyone to evacuate as quickly as possible. Inbar and her friends fled to the fields.

After several hours of hiding, they were discovered and chased by Hamas terrorists.

Threatened with a knife, Inbar was dragged by terrorists on a motorcycle into the Gaza Strip. After 70 days in Hamas’ captivity, the IDF confirmed Inbar was murdered by her captors.

Her boyfriend Noam Alon, whom she had met in the Visual Communication program, galvanized artists to paint the wall along Israel’s central highway with the words, “FREE PINK.”

Inbar is survived by her parents and brother and remembered for her “creativity, selflessness, and joy for life.”

May her memory be a blessing.

Inbar was a talented, multi-disciplinary artist by all accounts. According to the Head of the Department, Inbar is “gifted with a rare touch of creative magic. Her projects always appeal to a transcendental experience: how to render people to gain something extra transcendental.

In places where you must invent, imagine, and describe completely amorphous things - her ability to create worlds ‘inside the head’ is at its peak. [Her work] is the kind of work you find in museums.”

Inbar signed her pieces with the tag, “PINK,” the same tag used in the struggle to free her from captivity.

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37

T

investing in aT-Risk At-RISK women Women

ech19 is one of CHW’s first two social impact investment opportunities from the initiative launch in October 2022. Tech19 provides technical and innovative solutions to fintech, healthcare, and software companies, including prototyping, software, and hardware development. The women employed receive skills training and on-the-job support. They also become role models in their community, acting as an inspiration to the younger generation, while ensuring economic stability for their family. Since receiving your investment, they have doubled the number of employees, expanded business to additional fields, increased their customer base, and moved into their own office (pictured here in the background).

Tech19 was not selected as a business whose aim is the safety of women, but in providing women with training, employment, and financial stability, that is precisely what they are doing. Tech19 Co-founder and CEO, Inbar Cohen, recently discovered the breadth of Tech 19’s impact after asking employees to write what Tech 19 means to them. Below is what she asked us to share with you:

Hi Inbar,

38

itions, mainly mporary pos te ed ri a v in d ied and a 19, I worke e.’ I am marr , though nc se b A Before Tech of e rd hers on Leav nd works ha covering ‘Mot n. My husba re ic situation ild om ch on g ec un r o yo tely, ou na tu or nf mother to tw U . us and took relatively low became anxio e h r; io v his salary is a eh my financial husband’s b nd car. Since a s, se impacted my en p ex . our money, ue with him full control of dn’t even arg di I , er w lo s wa contribution financial t additional h ug ro b ild . After our second ch ior got worse v a eh b The birth of ’s nd etter work. nd my husba ded to find b ci de I , challenges a es ic h19. I ith social serv out a company called Tec consulting w b a e pany is a tech iends told m ough the com th en One of my fr ev , O und, Inbar ar, the CE vant backgro le re Y urance N met with Inb A e v l quality ass ca didn’t ha lo I e nd th a , ed ny in a jo drop comp in my skills. I I wanted to nd nd a a e e, m m in r fo ed believ ’t easy er training wasn the option to do so. Aft ar and e training; the m e . didn’t giv a project Inb r a to d nb I ne ig ut b ss sa y for out, aining, I wa ep of the wa tr st e y th er ev ng e ti le m comp ported l mentor sup a professiona x months. lead a more than si ly say that I ud ro p n ca I alf, amatically, increased dr year-and-a-h s a a h er e ft nc a de y, a Tod nce his My confi and and bala nce project. b a us ur h y ss a m y nt lit qua confro e courage to and I had th ect me now. sp re my kids en ev r, io v a arn and beh started to le nd a or ut b ri spective, l cont From my per main financia e. e lif th l e na m so a er ec Ib k and p children! elf in my wor y life and my m ed v develop mys sa en ed and ev Tech19 chang

ORAH Magazine winter 2024

Regards,

“I was motivated to support the Dairy Farm because it would help boost milk production and revenue, cheese making would impart important skills to the students, and my husband had family ties to the nearby moshav.”

“Music has always been part of both sides of my family. My mother, Estelle Mayzel, would have opera on the TV when I was young and then later, we were able to attend Canadian Opera Company seasons together. My mother-in-law, Ruth Lowe Sandler, actually took me to my first live opera. She also introduced me to Hadassah. One year my Chapter, Anne Frank, had a tea party where we wore our blue and white t-shirts with white gloves. My mother-in-law sat down at the grand piano and played for hours collecting ‘tips’ for Israel. I like to honour her legacy. When Lisa mentioned there was a Music Program at CHW Hadassim Youth Village, I thought perfect! Supporting the Music Program was a chance to help others pursue their passion for music and for my mother and mother in-law’s names to live on.”

“My grandmother, Neri Bloomfield, was always my role model as a female trailblazer, particularly within the Zionist movement. She held leadership positions among several Jewish organizations, but most closely identified with Hadassah, which she joined in Europe at just 16 years old, and later became the youngest woman to hold the position of Canadian Hadassah-WIZO National President. Her dedication to Israel was fierce, and this loyalty for her beloved Jewish state was something she instilled in all her grandchildren.

“Our family Foundation was called upon in the 1970s to assist in major funding of a school to be called the Neri WIZO School of Design. Interestingly, the first campus was on Mt. Scopus and later another campus was built in the German Colony where the school is today. Everything about this school embodies our family’s commitment to Israel - a place to ensure that young people are well educated in a world-class, cutting-edge environment. Their graduation fashion show is a highlight of the school year, where students can showcase their modern and fashion forward designs to a packed audience at the Haifa port. As a member of the National Board of CHW, I’m proud to be the 3rd generation of Bloomfield women to continue being deeply involved with CHW.”

H om e of i n n ovat i o n w h e r e

Entrepreneurs thrive

The Blender at HAC (Hadassah Academic College) is a hub of collaboration, innovation, and creative change.

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he Blender Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship held a college-wide challenge this year in the field of climate change. Three start-ups from the climate-tech industry presented problems in their field for the students to develop creative and efficient solutions. Twenty-four unique proposals were submitted and evaluated by the team of judges, which included representatives from the industry, ultimately awarding three teams with cash prizes, thanks to the support of CHW. The applicability of one of the winning proposed solutions is currently being validated for further development.

Creative Human Design, The Blender is pursuing the development of additional entrepreneurial groups at the college. This year, with the help of an Arab-Israeli HAC graduate, The Blender established an entrepreneurial group dedicated to the Arab student body, numbering about 35 students. The group was launched at a meeting where the participants were exposed to the activity of Arab-Israeli entrepreneurs as well as the experiences and lessons of the graduate, who was accepted by one of the leading hi-tech companies. In the 2023-24 academic year, The Blender intends to establish a group for female entrepreneurs.

This year, The Blender inaugurated a new branch at the Strauss campus for HAC’s ultra-Orthodox students. This expansion is significant as it engages innovative thinking and entrepreneurial approaches among students of the Haredi population, which is quickly gaining a quarter of Israel’s total population. To promote its activities among this group, The Blender added the “Business Entrepreneurship” course in the Computer Science department, and “Meet the Entrepreneurs,” a college-wide course to be taught in English.

The Blender, in collaboration with the Municipality of Jerusalem’s Division for Business Promotion, initiated and executed “Digital Jerusalem.” The semester-long course provided 30 students from the DAN Department of Creative Human Design, and 50 students from Azrieli College’s Industry and Management Department, direct exposure to the needs of business owners, acquiring new experience in collaboration within teams from various organizations, expanding the students’ network of connections and, at the same time, contributing to the establishment of Jerusalem business activities online.

As a result of the ongoing and successful venture with the Tikkun Olam Makers (TOM) community of 25 students from the DAN Department of 40

ORAH Magazine winter 2024

Over 200 students and staff have been mobilized to serve in army reserve units, and HAC is supporting them with scholarships, psychological support, and special learning accommodations.

The college opened a phone support centre for students and faculty members who need to talk or share.

HAC’s Department of Optometry and Vision Science initiated free vision tests and offered free eyeglasses for 600 survivors and refugees of Gaza border communities in temporary housing.

Sgt. First Class (res.) Hayim Katzman was a lecturer in the Department of Politics and Communication at HAC. On October 7, Dr. Katzman heard calls of distress as armed terrorists broke into Kibbutz Holit. He brought his neighbour to the ‘safe room’ in his home, but the terrorists broke in. Dr. Katzman put his body between himself and the gunman. He was killed, but his neighbour survived uninjured. He was 32 years old.

Chief Warrant Officer Ido Rosental, HAC graduate, and his unit were sent to Kibbutz Be’eri, but spotted terrorists approaching Kibbutz Alumim along the way. They joined the kibbutz’s emergency squad and prevented a massacre that would have rivaled the one at Kibbutz Be’eri.

Rosenthal lost his life in the course of the battle.

He was posthumously promoted from Warrant Officer to Chief Warrant Officer.

Maj. Uriel Bibi, HAC graduate, was an officer at the IDF Paratroopers’ Brigade. He was a decorated soldier, awarded excellence by the IDF’s Commander in Chief and an MDA volunteer for 15 years. On the morning of October 7, 2023, when he heard the news about the massacre, he left his home and set out to save as many lives as possible. Uriel was 30 years old at the time of his death. He was married and father of two.

Yitzhak Levy was a student at HAC, murdered at the Nova Music Festival. He was 27 years old.

May their memories be a blessing.

R

achel Chernos Lin, and her husband Dr. Ken Lin, were on their first visit to Israel as part of a mission on antisemitism. On the last day of their trip they visited Hadassah Academic College’s Clinical Training and Community Care Center.

Rachel is an elected Public School Trustee for the Toronto District School Board. She came to HAC with a deep understanding of the various challenges in the education system and was very impressed by what she learned from the heads of the audiology and speech therapy departments.

She was originally inspired to visit HAC because of the commitments made to CHW by her grandmother and mother. She described her grandmother as, “that Hadassah woman that would ask anyone and everyone to support Hadassah – she loved Hadassah!” At the end of her visit, she shared that her grandmother would be proud of what the Center is doing.

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A second chance CHW Netanya Technological High School provides a second chance for at-risk youth.

H

aving fallen through the cracks of traditional educational frameworks, CHW Netanya Technological High School (NTHS) provides 80 at-risk and disadvantaged youth with a second chance and practical skills for their future.

NTHS is a different kind of learning experience for these students, strengthening their confidence and belief in their abilities, while training them for the high-demand professions of beauty, hair design, cooking, gelateria, and patisserie. The small classes and open-door policy allow for personal attention and academic achievement, in addition to social activities, a school day routine, and a hot meal.

This track provides training in a top-quality parlor for yet another professional avenue for students and has quickly grown to be the most popular track with approximately half of the student body registered.

The school also hosts social activities and volunteer opportunities to help youth develop their interpersonal skills and give back to their community. This year, the students spent time with elderly residents of a local retirement home, brought packages of appreciation to police at the local station (pictured below), and distributed care packages to children hospitalized at Laniado Hospital in Netanya.

Under the leadership of professional pastry chef, Eyal Levy, students in the Patisserie Program are given the professional skills, practical tools, and emotional support to succeed in Israel’s exciting culinary industry. The program provides specialty workshops with leading pastry chefs and entrepreneurs sharing their distinct techniques and recipes for success in building a career.

NTHS graduate and successful entrepreneur, Adi Avital, opened a Specialty Ice Cream training program, in partnership with his ice cream chain.

Angel* arrived at Netanya at the age of 15 with severe behavioral and anger management issues; in one of her tantrums, she punched through a wall at the school and had to be taken to the hospital. Over the last year, with the warmth and guidance of her teacher and the school staff, Angel is nearly unrecognizable from her past self. Her academic achievements have improved significantly, with excellent attendance, participation, and motivation, especially in the Patisserie Program where she is most active. *name changed to protect privacy

NTHS is an important institution in reducing the high school student drop-out rate and increasing opportunities for students with special needs. A high number of students pursue national military services upon graduation, a huge achievement given their extremely difficult socio-economic backgrounds.

S TAFF U P DAT E S After seven years leading the school to historic achievements, Benny Shay stepped down from his role as principal. Carmit Dana, who most recently served as an educator at Neve Hadassah High School in Tel Yitzhak, has taken the reins with gusto. We thank Benny for his hard work, commitment, and heart, and we wish Carmit the best of luck as she leads this important institution.

FISCAL YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

2022/2023

Allocations of funds in 2022-2023*

TOTAL REVENUEs

2023:

2022:

* Including restricted major gifts for endowment purposes

* Including restricted major gifts for endowment purposes

$6,915,236*

24.5%

$5,554,211*

$371,499 = 15.2%

TOTAL EXPEnditures

2023:

2022:

$2,844,454*

$1,963,705

44.9%

*Increase in expenses pertains in part to re-establishing staffing to pre-COVID levels; live vs. virtual events; investment in organization’s infrastructure for growth

$693,325 = 28.4%

2022:

$4,070,782

$3,590,506

13.4%

Fundraising COST RATIO*

2023:

32%

$15,301,491

(CHW Netanya Technological High School, CYJ - Canadian Young Judaea ; Hadassah Academic College, CHW Neri Bloomfield Academy of Design)

Healthcare:

2022:

* Fluctuations in year over year

20.1%

fundraising cost ratio is due to the pandemic, i.e. virtual vs. in person events, staff layoffs and rehiring.

$1,374,638 = 56.4% (Hadassah Medical Center; Shamir Medical Center) *Based on project commitments

ENDOWMENT FUNDS

2023:

(World WIZO: CHW Nahalal Youth Village; CHW Hadassim Children and Youth Village, Safety Net, Jerome D. Diamond Adolescent Centre)

Education:

NET REVENUE (AFTER EXPENSES):

2023:

Social Services:

2022:

$13,169,590

15.2%

16.2% 56.4%

28.5%

Project Funding

2023:

$2,439,462

2022:

$2,022,734

20.6%

FOR THE COMPLETE AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENT, VISIT:

CHW.CA/ABOUT/FINANCIALS

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$2,800 USD per person

October 7th will forever be known as Black Saturday. Since that day, Israel has been fighting the battle against evil, from all fronts. Now is the time to stand together.

Join CHW for STRONGER TOGETHER, an unforgettable 4 days in Israel expressing our solidarity with the people and land of Israel on the road to recovery.

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March 18-21, 2024, CHW will lead a once-in-a-lifetime mission to Israel to bear witness to the devastation, to hear the stories of survival, resilience and provide comfort to soldiers and civilians.

This trip will include daily opportunities for volunteerism to give back to soldiers, the people and the land of Israel. You will receive comprehensive geopolitical and security briefings, visit our three key partner organizations – Hadassah Hospital, Shamir Medical Center, and WIZO who benefitted from our Emergency Appeal donations to witness the impact that CHW donors have made, with your support, to help the people of Israel on the road to recovery.

Space is limited to 30 people and is on a first come first served basis.

Minimum of 20 participants required.

• • • •

Roundtrip airfare Two lunches One dinner Alcohol

•

Tips for guide, driver, field coordinator ($100 per person) Travel insurance (highly recommended)

•

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2024.

REGISTER AND LEARN MORE: ** THE ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE AND WILL BE ADJUSTED ACCORDING TO THE CURRENT SITUATION AT THE TIME OF TRAVEL AND SECURITY REQUIREMENTS ON THE GROUND.

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S H U K FUNDRAISERS

CENTRE & CHAPTER

A L L I T E M S AVA I L A B L E O N L I N E W W W.C H W. C A / S H O P A L L C U R R E N T F U N D R A I S E R S S U P P O RT T H E C H W E M E R G E N C Y A P P E A L F O R I S R A E L .

Handmade Mezuzahs

N AT I O N A L

One-of-a-kind, handmade mezuzahs (scroll not included). The perfect gift for a new baby, wedding, engagement, anniversary, or housewarming. Made by artist Debra Satok. $72/each.

Cards For Any Occasion CHW offers a complete selection of any-occasion cards and certificates to recognize lifecycle events, such as: • Bar/Bat Mitzvah • Birth • Birthday • Holidays

• Mazel Tov • Sympathy • Todah Rabah

CENTRES Visit chw.ca/shop to see all your local fundraisers.

Available online: chw.ca/cards

EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS

NATIONAL E VENTS FASHION BLOOMS Thank you to all our generous sponsors, donors, chairs, committee members and volunteers who helped make Fashion Blooms 2023 an enormous success! Across Canada, CHW Vancouver Centre, CHW Calgary Centre, and CHW Toronto Centre all hosted separate events in support of the CHW Neri Bloomfield Academy of Design.

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EAST

WEST

FROM COAST TO COAST

A VISIT FROM LILI BEN AMI From June 6 to June 13, Lili Ben Ami, CEO and Founder of Michal Sela Forum (MSF) visited CHW Centres across Canada to speak about the important work of MSF to support victims of domestic violence through innovative strategies to prevent violence and protect victims. The visit also celebrated the partnership between CHW and MSF, inspiring donors and volunteers in the days leading up to the summer S.O.S (Starting Over Safely) Campaign. Lili highlighted the importance of reaching out to domestic violence experts if someone we know may be a victim. A passionate speaker, Lili’s visit left an indelible impression.

CHW NATIONAL GARAGE SALE This past September 10, we held our inaugural CHW National Garage Sale across the country. It was thrilling to see all the photos and social media posts from the various centres. Thank you to Stephanie Caplan and Tova Train, Co-chairs for the National Garage Sale for their dedication and guidance to help launch this new event. There was so much energy and shoppers lined up to get into many of the sales. It was great to see so many faces, young and old.

COMPLIMENTARY Tax WEBINAR On September 20, Mark Halpern, one of Canada’s leading experts on strategic philanthropy, life insurance, and estate planning and CEO of WEALTHinsurance.com, shared 10 yearend saving charitable strategies. Mark explained a tax rule change coming into effect in 2024 and answered audience questions on how to preserve your wealth. He also shared the benefits of leaving a legacy through an endowment to CHW.

COMPLIMENTARY BOOK WEBINAR On September 27, CHW hosted a complimentary author webinar for our major donors, sustainers, and campaign supporters. We would like to thank author Sheri Segal Glick for discussing her book “The Skinny” and for sharing her personal story with us.

CHW NATIONAL AGM & INSTALLATION On November 12, CHW was honoured to host Anita Friedman, Chairperson of World WIZO, who provided an update on WIZO’s programs and services since the start of the war.

National President Lynn Gillman and CEO Lisa Colt-Kotler provided reports and highlights about the past fiscal year, showcasing accomplishments and project impacts. The CHW Annual Financial Statement was presented by Yuri Kostowskyj, Fruitman Kates LLP. The AGM also included the installation of our two new Board of Directors, Jeannette Hoffman and Shanna Mittleman.

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SHAMIR ON THE FRONT LINE - SPECIAL WEBINAR PART 1 & 2 Part 1 on Wednesday, November 15, featured Dr. Osnat LevtzionKorach, Director General and CEO at Shamir Medical Center, who reported on the emergency treatment of hundreds of victims since the October 7 massacre, including the Thai hostages who were released. Part 2 on Wednesday, December, 15, featured Dr. Keren Doenyas-Barak, Head of PTSD program, Sagol Center for Hyperbaric Medicine at Shamir Medical Center, who briefed participants on the innovative trauma care for civilians and soldiers coping with trauma.

COMPLIMENTARY BOOK WEBINAR On November 22, author Sharon Neiss-Arbess discussed her life growing up in Montreal, her career, and the inspiration to write her new book, The Most Amazing Department Store. Sharon was interviewed Rebecca Eckler, founder of RE:BOOKS. Participants shared their own memories of visiting different department stores across the country.

VANCOUVER CENTRE Baking Hamantaschen in Vancouver CHW Vancouver Bvlgari Chapter hosted a heartwarming Purim event on Wednesday, March 8, at the Jewish Family Services (JFS).

The chapter made dozens of Hamantaschen for the community and the atmosphere was buzzing. As the group worked together in the kitchen, laughter and conversation filled the air.

CHW VANCOUVER WALK FOR S.O.S The CHW Vancouver Centre walk for S.O.S (Starting Over Safely) Campaign at Jericho Beach on August 13, was an great success. We had a fantastic turnout with so many new faces joining us. We’re excited to announce that we achieved our goal of raising $5000 for at-risk women and victims of domestic violence. The event was a heartwarming display of community and compassion.

CULINARY TALES AND GLOBAL EMPOWERMENT On Monday November 6, CHW Vancouver Centre hosted a spirited evening of Culinary Tales featuring Cook and Author, Adeena Sussman. It was a very well attended event.

Thank you to all who attended.

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CALGARY CENTRE Yom Ha’atzmaut at the JCC On this year’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut, Dorothy Hanson, CHW Calgary Centre President, and Malka-Deena Lewis, Development Coordinator, Western Canada celebrated at the JCC where they handed out colouring pages for kids, while raising awareness for the Breathe Life Give Love Annual Campaign.

23 For You & Me LuncheonS This year, CHW Calgary Centre met monthly for “23 For You & Me Luncheons” where donors and volunteers had a blast combining centre committee meetings with a monthly luncheon! Everyone gathered together on multiple occasions to discuss the centre’s plans and goals throughout the year, while enjoying a delicious meal and great company.

CHW CALGARY WALK FOR S.O.S On Sunday, August 20, CHW Calgary Centre gathered together with volunteers and their families for their annual S.O.S Walk to empower victims of domestic violence. Everyone enjoyed a beautiful afternoon at Glenmore Park walking together.

GAMES DAY & GAMES NIGHT CHW Calgary Centre enjoyed coming together this year for not only one but two games events this year. Games Day was a great success, as participants enjoyed playing all afternoon.

Games Night was a successful collaboration with Halpern Akiva Academy, as participants enjoyed an evening filled with fun, laughter, and lighthearted competition.

CHANUKAH TOY DRIVE AND CANDY FUNDRAISERS CHW Calgary Centre is delighted to share the success of our 23rd Annual Toy Drive, which raised close to $10,000 this year. Sincere gratitude to all contributors for their generous donations, significantly impacting the lives of the children we serve. The donated toys and gift cards were delivered to JFSC and the Alberta Children’s Hospital, ensuring that the joy reached those in need. Additionally, we expanded our outreach to include Franny’s Fund, providing support to children within the justice system. This year, CHW Calgary Centre also did something sweet and special for Chanukah.

Our successful Kosher Chanukah Candy Fundraiser in support of the CHW Emergency Campaign offered delightful treats in the spirit of Chanukah. A big thank you to all contributors for your support helping make both fundraisers a success.

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TORONTO CENTRE CHW TORONTO TAMID CHAPTER A WORK OF HEART CHW Toronto Tamid Chapter had an exciting 2022/23 with a huge influx of new members eager to participate, attend programs, and take on new roles, which helped Tamid raise an astounding $45,000 this year during their Work of Heart Online Auction in support of the Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care Unit (PCCCU) at Hadassah Hospital, Ein Kerem.

CHW Toronto Atid Chapter Passover Tulips Breaks Record After months of promotions and networking, CHW Toronto Atid Chapter had another record-setting year of Passover Tulip sales, selling over 600 pots! On Sunday, April 2, a team of 50 volunteers delivered beautiful colorful pots of tulips to delighted recipients across the city. Amongst these teams were high school students fulfilling their volunteer hours and families who wanted to do a mitzvah. Thank you to everyone who came out and participated.

CHW Toronto Lev Zahav Chapter Mother’s Day Flowers On Saturday May 14, CHW Toronto Lev Zahav Chapter led their 14th annual Mother’s Day fundraiser. Over 230 beautiful pots of Kalanchoe flowers and over 230 cards were sold and delivered to the special women in our lives, just in time for Mother’s Day. Thank you to everyone who participated in making this such a successful fundraiser for 2023.

CHW Toronto MACHAR Chapter ART EXPERIENCES 2023 On Monday, May 16, CHW Toronto Machar Chapter gathered together in the beautiful home of Debbie and Warren Kimel for Art Experiences 2023. Jane Corkin, acclaimed art advisor and owner of the Corkin Gallery, and Diego Burdi, multi-awardwinning designer and principal of Burdifilek, shared their expertise with the group as they toured and marveled at the home’s unique design. The event raised over $55,000 in support of The Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care Unit (PCCCU) at Hadassah Hospital, Ein Kerem in Jerusalem, and the Jerome D. Diamond Adolescent Centre for mental health in Toronto.

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CHW Toronto Dor L’Dor Chapter Walk FOR S.o.S On Monday, May 16, CHW Toronto Dor L’Dor Chapter successfully walked 10km on the Beltline Trail in Toronto and surpassed their original fundraising goal of raising $10k. Wearing their purple coloured hats proudly to symbolize victims of domestic violence, they were thrilled to be able to support Michal Sela Forum as part of the S.O.S – Starting Over Safely summer campaign.

CHW Toronto TZEDAKAH Chapter AT OUR TABLE 20th ANNIVERSARY This year, CHW Toronto Tzedakah Chapter celebrated its 20th anniversary at CHW. From its origins in two homes with 125 guests raising $30,000 to our most recent event with 250 guests, raising over $338,000, we are thrilled at the longevity and success our event has experienced. We are so proud to say that we have raised over $2.5 million for CHW projects over our 20 years. Each year gets better, and we are humbled and feel blessed by the loyalty and generosity of our supporters.

CHW Toronto GILA Chapter Walk FOR S.o.S On Sunday, June 11, over 30 CHW Toronto Gila Chapter members met at the beautiful home of Rosalind and Neil Brown to walk, barbecue, and celebrate the fact that they raised $54,000 for the Michal Sela Canines program in Israel and Franny’s Fund in Canada for the S.O.S (Starting Over Safely) Campaign. Our heartfelt thanks to our chair Rosalind Brown.

CHW Toronto RIMON Chapter RIMON WORKS OUT On Sunday, June 11, Rimon Chapter broke a sweat by taking a spin class for Rimon Works Out after fundraising in support of Franny’s Fund in Canada. The chapter collectively raised over $2,000.

CHW TORONTO ATERRET CHAPTER GAMES DAY On Wednesday, May 17, CHW Toronto Aterret Chapter hosted their Games Day and it was great fun. Catered by the Food Dudes, attendees enjoyed refreshments, lunch, a silent auction, and door prizes were given out to a lucky few. Everyone enjoyed a wide variety of different games together with good company. Together they raised over $4,600.

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CHW TORONTO CHAVEROT CHAPTER CHW WALK FOR S.O.S CHW Toronto Chaverot Chapter once again had a great fundraising year. Together they raised over $2,500 during their CHW Walk in support of the CHW S.O.S Campaign, nearly doubling their goal from last year. Bravo!

CHW TORONTO ORA CHAPTER CELEBRATES 65 YEARS TOGETHER CHW Toronto Ora Chapter gathered together this past August 2023 to celebrate 65 years as a chapter. The lunch, graciously organized by Phyllis Flatt, was very well attended. CHW Toronto Centre President, Stephanie Caplan, joined them for this milestone achievement. After the pandemic, this was the first time that many of the ladies had seen each other, and it was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to reconnect.

CHW TORONTO SAMYA CHAPTER ROSH HASHANAH CHOCOLATES CHW Toronto Samya Chapter raised over $31,905 with their 2032 Rosh Hashanah Chocolates Fundraiser. The chapter collectively sold 700 tins of chocolate.

CHW TORONTO ADENA-HANESSE CHAPTER MAH JONGG CARDS CHW Toronto Adena-Hanesse Chapter is currently selling the National Mah Jongg Cards for 2024 in support of the CHW Emergency Appeal. Sales end on January 26, 2024. Last year they completely sold out, so get yours while you can.

CHW TORONTO HATIKVAH CHAPTER ENEMY AT OUR GATE On Wednesday, October 18, CHW Toronto Hatikvah Chapter members gathered at the Leah Posluns Theatre in the Prosserman JCC to listen to journalist Barbara Kay discuss the history of Gaza and the current events that have unfolded in Israel since October 7.

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OTTAWA CENTRE CHW OTTAWA SPRING TEA On Sunday, June 11, CHW Ottawa Centre held their annual Spring Tea at the lovely home of Gina Grant, honouring Lynn Gillman and her husband Bobby Kaminsky for their service to CHW and the Ottawa community. This was CHW Ottawa’s first in-person tea since 2019. The funds raised at the tea were allocated to the CHW Social Impact Investment Fund.

CHW OTtAWA ROSH HASHANAH CHOCOLATES This year, CHW Ottawa sold over 40 boxes of kosher chocolates for Rosh Hashanah and offered donors the opportunity to do a double mitzvah. Some of the people who bought chocolates took the option of donating them to the Ottawa Kosher Food Bank.

CHANUKAH CRAFT SALE On Sunday, November 26, CHW Ottawa held a Chanukah Craft Sale in support of the Emergency Campaign for Israel. The sale featured beautiful hand-made items such as aprons, placemats and table runners. The sale was part of the annual Chanukah Fair held at the Soloway Jewish Community Centre and was coordinated by event chair, Hedy Gutman.

MONTREAL CENTRE GIRLS NIGHT OUT AT ESCONDITE On Monday, May 29, CHW Montreal Centre hosted a Girls’ Night Out at Escondite in support of the Neri Bloomfield Academy of Design. It was a special evening to learn more about how CHW makes a difference in the lives of at-risk women, children, and their families in Israel and Canada. The sold-out crowd enjoyed a delicious dinner and short presentations by Ari Schachter, CHW Director and granddaughter of Neri Bloomfieldz”l, and Lisa Colt-Kotler, CHW CEO.

BREATHE LIFE GIVE LOVE TELETHON WITH CYJ This past May, the Montreal Canadian Young Judaea (CYJ) Youth Council volunteers raised over $1,000 during their telethon for the Breathe Life Give Love Annual Campaign. They enjoyed pizza and prizes afterwards.

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AFTERNOON TEA IN HONOUR OF ALANNA ELIAS On Thursday, June 8, CHW held an afternoon tea in honour of Alanna Elias who was recognized for her 30 years of commitment and dedication to CHW. The special guest from Israel was Lili Ben Ami, Founder and CEO of Michal Sela Forum (MSF). Lili shared her personal journey and the innovative work being done by MSF. Roslyn Joseph hosted this special event in her beautiful home.

49TH ANNUAL PRO AM FOR KIDS The 49th Annual Pro-Am For Kids was held on Thursday, July 6 at Elm Ridge Country Club. It was a huge success raising over $250,000 in support of at-risk youth through CHW Hadassim Youth Village and Myra’s Kids Foundation Summer Camp. Over 180 amateurs and professional golfers played out a shot-gun tournament and competed for fun prizes, while a full team of volunteers kept everyone hydrated and fed. The winning pros were Marc-Olivier Plasse, Vallée du Richelieu and Dom Lalonde, St. Anicet. Congratulations to the CoChairs, Joseph Balinsky, Gary Hutman, and Danny Kaufer and their committee for a stupendous job.

CHW MONTREAL ANNA ZAITCHICK CHAPTER WALK FOR S.O.S On Sunday, August 6, the CHW Montreal Anna Zaitchick Chapter had a wonderful turnout of walkers. Together they met 98% of their goal of raising $19,715 for victims of domestic violence. Well done ladies.

CHW MONTREAL TEL CHAI CHAPTER ONLINE BRIDGE TOURNAMENT The CHW Montreal Tel Hai Chapter Online Bridge Tournament took place on September 6th with the help of director Dominique Guay.

The event raised over $8,000 in support of the SOS - Starting Over Safely campaign. Congratulations to the winning teams.

CHW MONTREAL ROSH HASHANAH CHOCOLATES This year, CHW Montreal Centre raised over $40,000 in chocolate sales for the holidays. With the help of volunteers, 750 boxes of chocolate were delivered all over the city. A great start for a sweet new year.

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C H W. C A / E V E N T S

We Remember The CHW family fondly remembers those who have passed July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023.

Irving Aaron Doreen Abugov Murray Abugov Byron Aceman Lillian Achtman Tishelle Adelman David Adelman Ron Adelson Annette Albert Helen Altman Florence Antecol George Arato Sheila Archeck Marlene Arron Jerry Arshinoff Jerrold Aspler Donna Bank Sara-Sally Bedzow Sheila Bell Perla Benezra Rosanne Beraznik Seymour Bercovitch Leatrice Berger Edith Berlin Hilda Berman Florence Berns Esther Bernstein Gertrude Berrys Clarence Blatt Geraldine Blatt Bertram Blevis Morris Blitt Ethel Bloom Eva Bodenstein Linda Bogante Michael Bondar Yvelle Bradley Nancy Bresler Ann Breslow Toby Brotman Rhoda Broudy Alex Buckman Celia Bullion Ernest Burman Maralin Calman Conrad Cape Marilyn Caplan Mollie Caron Lisa Carsley Jill Charkow Avinoam Chernick Shirley Chernin Bassia Chvartsbourd Stephen I. Closner Elaine Cohen Reva Cohen Sydney Cohen Janice Cohen

Bella Cohen Anita Cohen Sid Coleman Jerry Cooper Mollie Corber Marabelle Cornfield Hazel A. Cosman Estelle Cossever Jonah Cossever Sidney Cyngiser Anne David Shirley Diamond Sandy Dichter Daisy Douek Bea Dubinsky Jerry Dubisky Reuben Dubrofsky Rose Edelson Cynthia Engel Sylvia Epstein Doris Evin Rose Fagen Miriam Ferstman Ruth Flader Sharon Flam Pearl Freedman Barbara Freedman Tzipie Freedman Elaine Freitag Marcelle Gabbay George Gara Ilse Gardner Miriam Gareh Harry Garfinkle Beverly J. Garshman Bruce Gates Lucille Gates Norma Gelfand Donna Gelman Lorna Gittleson Benjamin S. Glick Marilyn Godel Lily Goldberg Bernice Goldberg Sheila Goldbloom Beverely Golden Beryl Goldman Deanna Goldstein Philip Goodman Jacqueline Gorenstein Vivian Granitz Mendel Green Charles Groner Jerry Gross Elyse Halprin Dovena Hart Rosalie Heller Miriam Henderson

Anne Hersh Esther Hirsch Louise Hoffman Mel Hoppenheim Alvin Hornstein Janet Ironstone Sam Jablonka Barbara Jerome Charlie Katz Abe Kauffman Judith E. Kenigsberg Bernice Kertzner Ilana Kieffer Lilia Kierszenblat Miriam Klein Annette Kleingrib Sarah Kleinplatz Rivka Kochman Fay Koffman Sophie Kolatacz Phil Kolodny Seren Kratz Libby Kronick Rose Krulewitz Ella Kupferstein Larry Kurlender Connie Kussner David Kwavnick Sheila Labow Pearl Lansky Robert Lassner Alfred K. Lawee Ann Lazear Elinor Leboff William Letovsky Charlotte Levene Helen Lew Seth Leznoff Itzhak Likver Julius Lister Mona Litman Michael Litvack Klara Luker Sheila Madan Thelma Malamud Barbara Marcus Pearl Maritzer Helen Marks David Mars Peggy Marsh Anna Mendel Beverly Mendel Mildred Meyers Linda Miles Dawn Mill Abe Miller Cathy Milner Betty Minden

Suzanne Modlin Belle Moidell Polly Moran Macey Morris Martin Nadler Dorothy Nadolny George Nashen Julie Nattel Betty Nitkin Arnold Nussbaum Paula Nutik Theodore Oberfeld Sandra Ohayon Bonnie J. Osoff-Bultz Edward Pascal Leah Papernick Norman Pawer Renee Pekeles Sharon Pertman Ruth Plotnick Tamara Plucer Rosemary Poll Roberta Pollock Adam Porepa Netty Prosterman Esther Ptashny Sandra Rafman Fay Randolph Riva Rauch Esther Rawas Lotti Redner Reva Regenstreif Helen Reiner Oscar Respitz Qc Jack Richer Reuben Richman Harriet Rosenthal Shirley Rosentzveig Saul Ross Isaac Rotstein Jason Ruby Fran Ruckenstein Frances Russman Shifra Salzer-Alt Reva Samberg June Samuels Miriam Sanders Sarah Sazant Marilyn Scheffer Monica Schubert Miriam Schwartz Arlene Sculnick Alvin Segal Keith Segal Leatrice Selinsky Morris Shamis Michael Sheff Sarah Sheinfeld

Sylvia Shier Barbara Shore Sydney Shrott Joel Silcoff Vivian Silver Leona Silver Rose Simon Ray Sinukoff Harvey Slabotsky Pearl Smith Stan Smith Robert Smolkin Tannis Snukal Leah Socran Cheryl R. Sorokin Gladys Spain Nina Spiegel Frances Spodek Muriel Steinberg Marilyn Stern Gerald Stroll Sheila V. Sunderland Brian Swartz Roslyn Swartzman Ricky Tajfel Roslyn Taller Greta Tarshis Charles Taylor Shirley Teitelbaum Ilana Tobe Shirley Train Lionella Ullman Fred C. Ullman Carol Vengroff Huguette Veres Laura Vinegar Muriel Vosko Shimona Waldston Charlotte Walfish Murray Waxman Max Weinstein Sigal Weizmann Sandra Weltman Gail Wilks Stephen Wolfe Sheila E. Wolfish Norman Wolfish Irene Wolfman Sylvia Yarin Stan Zack Ida Zelnicker Sheila Zidel Gilbert Zimmerman Sandra Zunder

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