Kudos to the Department of Community Services under the thoughtful stewardship of National Director Frank Buchweitz, Program Associate Hannah Chornock, and Administrative Assistant Adam Eisler for presenting a number of outstanding programs over the past few weeks.
Yael and I had the privilege of participating in the OU’s sixth Marriage Enrichment Retreat just a few weeks ago at the Woodcliffe Lake Hilton. It was a truly remarkable and memorable experience, as we joined together with other mental health professionals in presenting a variety of outstanding workshops throughout a weekend geared towards further strengthening healthy marriages. 75 couples were in attendance at this sold-out event. (An additional 45 couples were sorely disappointed that they never made it off of the waiting list.)
As the yomim noraim and the new school year are quickly approaching, a special meeting on securing our synagogues and schools was convened in a communal gathering of synagogue leadership of the Five Towns. The program was held in conjunction with theJCRC, Achiezer Community Resource Center, and the JCC of the Greater Five Towns. It follows on the heels of a previous program successfully held with leadership of synagogues in Manhattan.
Finally, many people find themselves as part of what is called “The Sandwich Generation,” raising their own families and at the same time caring for aging parents. A program was held at Congregation Anshei Chesed of Hewlett in conjunction withMetropolitan Jewish Health System. Rabbi Simcha Lefkowitz focused on the halachic aspects of kibud av v’eim, Dr. Martin Grossman addressed medical options and recent legislation, Eytan Kobre, Esq. discussed financial and legal challenges, Toby Weissprovided information on healthcare systems, and Leba Sonnenberg spoke on the impact on families and services in sub-acute rehabilitations facilities.
We thank Frank and his team for organizing and executing these important and timely events.