After OU Israel’s annual membership drive, the organization wanted to thank the members for their support. This year, on the seventh day of Chanukah there was a Members Tea. Of course they were served more than tea. Latkes and soufganiyot led off the menu.
This year there are about 400 annual members, of whom about 100 attended the Tea. OU Israel has more than 200 lifetime members.
The organizer of the event was Sara Berelowitz, OU Israel Comptroller whose other hats include being in charge of human resources and members.
“I really enjoyed doing this,” Berelowitz said. “Our members are the nicest people in the world and I’m glad I could make them happy.”
What do people gain from being a member of OU Israel?
Here’s what some of the members said:
Phyllis Singer (left): “OU Israel has so much to offer for English speaking olim.
Connie Abramson: “This is just the greatest place.”
Lillian Fisher (left): “This is my home away from home.”
Sheldon Abramson: “I’ve been coming here every week for 20 years. The lectures and shiurim are the best in Israel.”
David Cashdan: “In addition to the good shiurim, I have found like-minded people who share my values and way of thinking.”
Sylvia Chartier (left) and her aunt Perel Azaria.
Sylvia Chartier: “My Aunt Perel gave me lifetime membership in 2000. We work as volunteers and also participate in Shabbatonim, the ulpan, and a knitting group.”
Perel Azaria also donated the OU Israel Center’s video library in memory of her husband, Dr. Maurice Joseph. “For a Torah observant English speaker, the OU Israel Center is a haven where you can learn in your own language.”
In recognition of their membership everyone received a mug like the one Rosalyn Safer is holding. The mugs have the slogan “OU Israel Proud Member.”
Rabbi Avi Berman (left), Executive Director of OU Israel: “When you are a member of OU Israel you aren’t just supporting the activities of the OU Israel Center. You’re part of a family that cares for all of Klal Yisrael, especially teens who may need help staying on the right path,” he said. “In short you’re part of a great family.”
Rivka Segal, Director OU Israel Center Programs: “Your partnership with us recognizes that you worked hard to get here but that you still want to learn new things and meet new people. The OU Israel Center is the best antidote to just sitting and relaxing,” she said. She also encouraged the members – and the public at large – to Sponsor a Shiur to remember loved ones and to mark life cycle events.
For more information about Sponsor a Shiur, contact Rivka Segal.
If you’d like to become a member of the OU Israel Center, contact Sara Berelowitz.