The Chabad of Hewlett will celebrate a milestone year of growth and community connection during its upcoming Gala Celebration on June 9, marking the organization’s first major gala event in its new building.
Unlike many organizations that host annual fundraising dinners, Rabbi Nochem Tenenboim said Chabad of Hewlett only holds gala celebrations when the community reaches a significant new stage of growth.
“I believe we’ve had only eight gala dinners over the years, and each one represented another step forward, another commitment to grow stronger, bigger and do even more for the community,” Tenenboim wrote in an email.
This year’s event will honor a unique group of supporters: the Chabad’s monthly donors, who Tenenboim said have quietly helped sustain and expand programming throughout the year.
“Since moving into our beautiful new building in October, the activities and programs for the entire greater Hewlett Jewish community have grown tremendously,” he wrote. “Every week there are more families, more kids, more classes, more Shabbat celebrations and more people walking through the doors and feeling at home.”
With that growth, however, came increased operational costs and a greater reliance on consistent community support.
“For the first gala in our beautiful new building, we decided to honor the people who quietly keep Chabad running all year long — our monthly donors who make all this possible every single day,” Tenenboim added.
The rabbi described the gala as more than just a fundraiser or formal dinner. Instead, he said, it is intended to be a celebration of the broader Jewish community throughout Hewlett and the surrounding area.
“This is not a synagogue gala or a temple dinner,” he wrote. “This is a celebration of the entire greater Hewlett Jewish community.”
According to Tenenboim, Chabad of Hewlett has worked to create an environment that is welcoming and accessible to Jews of all backgrounds, affiliations and levels of observance.
“From the very beginning, Chabad has been a place truly open to every Jew,” he wrote. “Our goal has always been to bring the joy, warmth and beauty of Judaism to everyone, especially during challenging times when people are searching for connection, meaning and community.”
Over the years, the Chabad has expanded its reach through a wide variety of programming, including Shabbat celebrations, holiday events, educational classes, teen programming and the Jewish Kids Club of Hewlett.
“Children truly love being Jewish while enjoying our big, beautiful building filled with warmth and energy,” Tenenboim wrote.
The organization has also become a gathering place for local students, young families, adults and seniors seeking a stronger sense of community and Jewish identity.
“The impact is tremendous,” Tenenboim wrote. “It’s creating a stronger sense of Jewish pride, unity and happiness throughout the community.”
Tenenboim said one of his favorite aspects of the gala is seeing community members come together in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
“We all love these gala celebrations,” he wrote. “To be there together with everyone, enjoying good food, relaxing and celebrating with joy, is truly beautiful.”
As Chabad of Hewlett looks toward the future, Tenenboim said the gala will also serve as an opportunity to reflect on how the organization can continue expanding its outreach and programs.
“We’re excited to welcome everyone to the gala and to all the amazing programs and services we offer,” he wrote. “You don’t need any previous experience or affiliation to walk through our doors. That’s what Chabad is all about — family, community and making Judaism joyful and accessible for every single Jew.”
