EVENING of 2024 MIRACLES
Sunday, November 3, 2024
Meridian Arts Centre, 5040 Yonge Street, Toronto
Thank you to Noach, Orna and the Israel Guide Dog Center.
We’re honoured to support your amazing work.
GEOFFREY & PAULA BLEDIN
Carmit & Yani
MESSAGE FROM THE Board Chair
Dear Friends,
Several years have passed since our last Evening of Miracles.
We have come together tonight in solidarity with Israel to celebrate and support the Israel Guide Dog Centre for the Blind. This stellar and visionary organization brings joy, new found hope, courage and meaning to the lives of our many clients in Israel through being paired with our dedicated and loyal guide dogs.
Given the deeply challenging and dire situation of Israel today, the tasks undertaken by our dogs are even more in demand than ever before, whether they serve the needs of the visually impaired, those suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder and with special needs.
Our mission could not have been fulfilled without our incredible donors, who we are enormously blessed to have, along with our amazing and vastly dedicated staff and volunteers here in Toronto and abroad in Israel.
I remain deeply grateful to each and every one of you for your outstanding contributions.
Am Yisroel Chai!
Dr.
Marcia Sokolowski Chairperson
Canadian Friends of the Israel Guide Dog Center for the Blind
ABOUT THE ISRAEL GUIDE DOG CENTER
The Israel Guide Dog Center for the Blind is dedicated to improving the quality of life of visually impaired Israelis, those suffering from post-trauma and children with special needs.
We provide them with mobility, independence, self-confidence and companionship through the faithful assistance of guide and service dogs specially trained in Hebrew to meet Israel’s rigorous and challenging environment.
Founded in 1991, the Israel Guide Dog Center serves Israel’s 24,000 blind and visually impaired citizens and is the country’s only internationally accredited guide dog program. In their 30+ years, they have impacted thousands of lives.
Galit & Bingo
HONOURING OUR FOUNDERS & VISIONARIES
ORNA & NOACH BRAUN
The Israel Guide Dog Center for the Blind (IGDCB) was born from the dream of a courageous young paratrooper in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Noach Braun, a lifelong animal lover, trained dogs in the IDF to serve in military roles, but his heart yearned to use his skills to help people in a deeper, more meaningful way. Alongside his wife Orna, who grew up on Kibbutz Kabri, where the two met, they shared a vision that would change countless lives.
After leaving the military, Noach discovered something that shocked him: there was no guide dog school in Israel. This ignited a new dream. Together, Noach and Orna made it their life’s mission to create a center where blind and visually impaired Israelis could gain mobility, independence, and companionship through the unmatched bond with a guide dog.
Today, thanks to their unwavering determination, the Israel Guide Dog Center provides not only for those with visual impairments but also for individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges. Because of Noach and Orna’s vision and relentless dedication, people in Israel can now walk through life with dignity and confidence, knowing they have the support they need to live independently and thrive.
EVENING OF MIRACLES Committee & Board
SPECIAL THANKS
The Israel Guide Dog Center would like to extend a special thank you to our incredible Evening of Miracles Committee. Their time and dedication has been integral to the success of today’s celebration.
EVENT COMMITTEE
Eli Dadouch
Tammy Glied
Olga Goldberg
Erica Leibner
Eli Rubenstein
Marcia Sokolowski
Alan Wainer
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Marcia Sokolowski, Chair
Eli Rubenstein, Immediate Past Chair
Karen Etingin
Orli Goldberg (November 2024)
STAFF
Atarah Derrick
Executive Director
Shelley Calleri
Administrative Assistant
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR GENEROUS
DONORS
THE LINDA FRUM & HOWARD SOKOLOWSKI
CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
In honour of Noach and Orna. Keep doing the wonderful work you do.
AM YISRAEL CHAI
CELIA TESSLER ATKIN
Host: BEN MULRONEY
Ben Mulroney is one of Canada’s top television hosts. He is best known for co-hosting CTV’s Your Morning and Etalk and hosting Canadian Idol. With his humour, charisma, and warmth, Mulroney brings energy to galas, conferences, and events.
Despite being the son of former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and holding degrees from Laval and Duke Universities, he pursued a career in show business. He started as the Quebec Correspondent for The Chatroom, then moved to Canada AM and Etalk, covering major events like the Oscars and Golden Globes.
Mulroney now contributes to 640 Toronto and works with Aurora Strategy Global. He actively supports charitable organizations like CNIB and SickKids and is a vocal supporter of Israel and the Jewish community. He lives in Toronto with his wife, Jessica Brownstein, and their three children.
Honouring Noach and Orna for their lifetime of dedication to Israel Guide Dogs.
MARIKA & BILL Z”L GLIED
Monira Ali & Isabel
DAVID BROZA & TRIO HAVANA
David Broza is an internationally renowned Israeli singer-songwriter recognized for his dynamic guitar performances and humanitarian efforts. His signature sound brings together the influence of Spanish flamenco, American folk, rock and roll, and poetry. Social justice and peace advocacy are embedded in Broza’s work; his 1977 hit song “Yihye Tov” remains an Israeli peace anthem. With over 40 albums released, many of which are multiplatinum, in English, Hebrew, and Spanish, Broza continues to tour globally as a solo musician and with his various musical projects.
Broza was born in Haifa, Israel and spent his teenage years in Spain and the UK. After returning to Israel, Broza started his musical career at age 22. His travels have contributed to his international sound and commitment to human connection, storytelling, and equality.
At the core of his social justice work is the belief that music is a platform for dialogue and tolerance. His 2013 album East Jerusalem, West Jerusalem received widespread acclaim alongside a documentary of the same name which streamed on Netflix for three years. The album, produced by Grammyaward winners Steve Earle and Steve Greenberg, was recorded entirely in the Palestinian Sabreen studio in East Jerusalem, featuring Israeli and Palestinian musicians.
He is the founder of the non-profit One Million Guitars, which gives handcrafted guitars to underprivileged schoolchildren around the world and provides them with the foundation of a musical education.
We are proud to support the Israel Guide Dog Center. Wishing continued success for the organization and all those who can now lead their own way.
HARRY & MALKA ROSENBAUM,
SHAYNA & JEFF APPLEBY, RENEE & JESSE KAUFMAN,
SHAEL ROSENBAUM
EREZ BARKAI AND Venus
Since the beginning of 2023, Erez Barkai has served as Director of Community Relations at the Israel Guide Dog Center. A graduate of the Center, Erez is now working with his third guide dog, Venus.
Erez was born blind on the day of the 1976 Air France hijacking to Entebbe, Uganda. While he had some residual vision, he lost most of it by age 17 due to a genetic defect, an event that he says “changed the entire course” of his life.
Determined to create a meaningful future, Erez studied music at Rimon, Israel’s top jazz school, specializing in bass guitar. He also learned to play several other instruments and set up a home recording studio, which became a hobby and a source of income. Erez’s music career flourished as he performed on TV and with leading Israeli artists. After marrying, becoming religious, and studying to become a rabbi, he spent 23 years teaching music and holding management roles in the education system.
Erez’s first guide dog, Lady, provided him with newfound independence. Today, he partners with Venus, training her daily to keep her guiding skills sharp. Erez has also taught Venus how to assist with PTSD, in preparation for his work representing the Center.
In honour of Noach and Orna, for leadership, compassion, and tireless service.
Thank you for making miracles happen every day.
THE JOSEPH GOTTDENKER FAMILY
ACHIYA KLEIN AND Joy
Achiya Klein is an Israeli veteran and an inspiring figure in the Paralympic athlete community. A former sergeant and officer in the IDF’s elite Yahalom unit within the combat engineering corps, Achiya was severely injured during a 2013 mission to disable a terror tunnel when an explosive device detonated, leaving him blind. Undaunted, he completed rehabilitation and returned to his unit, working in research and development.
In 2015, Achiya partnered with his first guide dog, beginning a journey of resilience and achievement. A passionate athlete, he joined the Israeli national team, competing in Paralympic rowing championships and representing Israel in the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. Academically, Achiya pursued a Master’s degree in Counter Terrorism and Homeland Security at IDC Herzliya’s Lauder School of Government.
Now based in Toronto, Achiya shares his life with his wife, Shirlee, their two sons, and Joy, his second guide dog. Achiya’s story is one of strength and dedication, illustrating his commitment to both his country and his family, as well as his drive to lead an empowered life.
We wish the organization Mazel Tov and express our gratitude for its incredible work for the Israeli community.
Dogs are truly man/woman’s best friend!
LOVE THE GLIED BELIAK FAMILY
ARI BARATZ AND ORLI GOLDBERG AND FAMILY
Thank you for your dedication and valuable support.
THE GIBLI FAMILY
With appreciation, The Ladovsky Family and United Bakers
IRENE ARKIN in memory of my grandson Shlomo Danzinger and my husband Alex Arkin.
I wish the Israel Guide Dog Center much success in their Evening of Miracles.
Noach and Orna:
May you receive the kindness and joy that you so easily bestow upon others. With the sincerest gratitude for all you do.
FONDLY,
REBA & GILBERT SATOV
THE LARRY AND JUDY TANENBAUM
FAMILY FOUNDATION
are proud supporters of our amazing friends Noach, Orna and the Israel Guide Dog Center Who have dedicated their lives to bringing miracles to the Israeli community.
We are thrilled to pay tribute to the incredible work of Noach and Orna Braun who have dedicated themselves to transforming the lives of others through the Israel Guide Dog Center.
CINDY WEINER & FAMILY
IRA & SHIRLEY
MARDER
Kol Hacavod to Israel Guide Dogs for the important work you do!
JEFFREY & SARA
SILVERMAN
We are delighted to sponsor our second puppy with the Israel Guide Dog Center, helping raise loyal companions who transform lives.
MELISSA IGRA, JOEL POLAN AND FAMILY
Very proud to support the Israel Guide Dog Center.
THE GOODMAN, FEIG & SIEGEL FAMILIES
Mazal Tov to the Israel Guide Dog Center on their 8th Evening of Miracles!
JEREMY & MINDY ALTER
LEV HASHARON
Arlene Lapowich your life has been a beautiful gift to all who know you. The love, wisdom, and joy you’ve shared have shaped us in ways we’ll never forget. We celebrate not just your years, but the endless impact you’ve made on our hearts. May the years ahead bring you as much love as you’ve given us Happy Birthday and may you live until 120!
Love your children, grandchildren, friends and Lev Hasharon.
Leading Mental Health Care in Israel
Lev Hasharon is a leading public mental health in israel, specializing in trauma and psychiatric care. The hospital provides full services for acute and chronic patients, while pioneering trauma care and fostering a community of healing, respect, and dignity.
https://lev-hasharon.co.il/support-us/
GARY & MAXIE BLUESTEIN CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
PROGRAMME
WELCOME
Host Ben Mulroney, Chair Marcia Sokolowski and Executive Director Atarah Derrick
GUIDE DOG TEAMS
Erez Barkai and Venus, and Achiya Klein and Joy
HONOURING
NOACH AND ORNA BRAUN, IGDC FOUNDERS
DAVID BROZA & TRIO HAVANA
DESSERT RECEPTION
Eden Taharari & Jema
GET INVOLVED
The Canadian Friends of the Israel Guide Dog Center empowers disabled people by providing highly trained guide, service, and emotional support dogs. Here’s how you can make a difference:
DONATE
Your gift directly supports the training and care of these incredible dogs. Every contribution helps.
• One-Time or Monthly Giving
• Sponsor a Puppy: Monthly gifts as low as $40 per month allow you to sponsor a puppy in its first year and a half of life.
• Name a Puppy: For $5000, you can name a puppy and follow their first year and a half of life.
LEAVE A LEGACY
Consider leaving a legacy gift by including the Israel Guide Dog Center in your will. Your legacy will help change lives for years to come. For more information, please contact us.
FUNDRAISE
Host a community event, start a crowdfunding campaign, or include us in your Bnai Mitzvah project. Your efforts raise crucial funds and awareness.
ATTEND AN EVENT
Join us at our Evening of Miracles Gala or other fundraising events. Your participation supports our mission.
VOLUNTEER
Whether at events or as a puppy raiser in Israel, your time and efforts are vital to our success.
VISIT
Experience our work firsthand by visiting us in Israel. Schedule a tour and meet our clients, our dogs and our staff.
Every action you take helps provide life-changing dogs to those in need. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
