OU Impact Report 2018

Many Voices, One Future

Impact Report 2018/5779

Orthodox Union Impact Report 2018/5779 ou.org

C O N T E N T S

Leadership Messages to the Community

4

NCSY

6

Yachad/NJCD

18

OU Advocacy

26

Women’s Initiative

32

OU Kosher

38

Synagogue & Community Services

44

OU Israel

50

OU-JLIC

56

OU Publications

64

Israel Free Spirit

68

Bring Israel Home / Birthright Follow-Up

72

OU Torah

76

Impact Accelerator

82

OU Press

86

Teach Advocacy Network

88

Future Programs

96

Benefactor Circle

98

OU Board & OU Committees & Commissions

102

Senior Staff

105

Contact Info

106

3

L E A D E R S H I P

F R O M

T H E

M E S S A G E S

T O

T H E

C O M M U N I T Y

P R E S I D E N T

The underlying mission of the Jewish people is to be mekadesh Shem Shamayim; to elevate the glory and majesty of the Almighty, and that is the central theme running through each and every dimension of the Orthodox Union’s endeavors.

The pursuit of our mission begins with embracing our Jewish identity, observing halacha and studying Torah. Each aspect of OU programming is, therefore, an effort to provide every Jew with the environment, tools, and opportunity to be a part of this mission.

Our community is blessed with myriad extraordinary institutions and programs that share the objectives of the Orthodox Union. The initiatives undertaken by the OU are, therefore, those in which we are uniquely positioned to be most effective. The OU’s national and international reach and reputation allow us to undertake initiatives that we are uniquely capable of implementing.

The prominence of the OU kosher label, and the unparalleled scope and impact of NCSY, Yachad, OU-JLIC campus program and other programs for college-age students, reflect this strategy. OU Torah education projects, both online and off, and our most recent initiatives described in the 2018 Impact Report, all share this common characteristic.

Significant, fundamental dimensions of Judaism, such as education and prayer, are most effectively implemented on a local level. The OU, therefore, uses its expansive network and expertise to assist local institutions with their invaluable work. For example, the OU Advocacy Center has secured unprecedented federal disaster relief and safety funding for our religious institutions, and the state-by-state Teach Network is making advances in accessing fair government funding for better safety and instruction at Jewish day schools. Similarly, our Synagogue & Community Services department provides numerous forms of assistance to shuls and communal professionals. This assistance ranges from offering training and networking opportunities to disseminating best practices and innovations already in place at other institutions.

The Orthodox Union has been blessed by the Almighty with inspiration, creativity, and generous partners. Please join us in praying to God for these continuing gifts, and partner with us as we strive to continue raising the banner of Torah and mitzvos throughout the world.

Moishe Bane President, OU

4 LEADERSHIP MESSAGES TO THE COMMUNITY

F R O M

T H E

E X E C U T I V E

V I C E

P R E S I D E N T

This year marks the Orthodox Union’s 120th year since Rabbi Dr. Henry Pereira Mendes, the spiritual leader of the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue in New York, identified a pressing need -- to unite a diverse and increasingly fragmented Orthodox community. The response to that need was the establishment, in 1898, of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, an organization dedicated to unifying and strengthening Orthodox Jewry.

Today, so many decades later, while the OU has grown in ways its founders could not have imagined, our commitment to fostering our mission of building a unified and vibrant Orthodox community, and sharing the values of Torah true Judaism and our mesorah with the broader Jewish world -- remains ever more vital and ever more relevant. Inside this impact report, you’ll see the thread of our mission woven through the accomplishments and initiatives of our diverse programs and departments.

This past year, over 530 unaffiliated Jewish public school students came to Israel on the Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey where they were introduced, many of them for the first time, to their heritage and culture. The NCSY’s Kollel Mechina program enabled public school teens to experience the joy of Jewish learning on an advanced level. The OU’s Women’s Initiative, in its very first year, awarded grants to 16 synagogues to encourage novel ways of addressing the needs of women in their communities. Our political advocacy programs, the Teach Advocacy Network and the OU Advocacy Center, helped secure more than $1 billion in history-making initiatives for security funding, and support for nonpublic school education, thereby easing the ever-challenging burden of tuition for all of our families. In Yerushalayim, OU Israel’s Pearl and Harold Jacobs Zula Outreach Center continued to provide a safe environment for at-risk youth struggling with a wide array of challenges, helping them reintegrate into the community. Yachad, our inclusion program for individuals with disabilities, launched a new Yeshiva League basketball team that represents IVDU, our network of Yachad schools serving ages 5 to 21.

These are but a few examples of how the OU carries out its mission to help every member of Klal Yisrael feel part of the community and engage with the precious heritage that we all share. As you browse this report and witness the scope and breadth of the Orthodox Union’s communal work, we hope you’ll partner with us to help make our founder’s vision a flourishing reality for many more years to come.

Allen Fagin Executive Vice President, OU

5

ncsy.org NCSYers frequently engage in Torah learning sessions through programs like Yarchei Kallah during winter break and regional Latte ‘n Learning groups.

6 N C S Y

N C S Y:

T H E

F U T U RE

L E A D E R S

O F

O U R

C O M M U N I T I E S

NCSY connects Jewish teens of all backgrounds

28,188 Total teens reached in 2018

through year-round social, educational and leadership programs, preparing them to become the next generation of proud, committed Jews. From local onegs, learning groups and Shabbatonim to national Yarchei Kallah retreats, disaster relief missions, and various

14,570 Teens attending a program for the first time

summer programming, NCSY caters to each teen’s unique perspective while maintaining a steadfast commitment to traditional Jewish values and practice.

11,16 4 Programs run globally this year

1,596 Participants on summer programs

2018 JUMP participants attend the final boardroom competition in New York City. Through JUMP, NCSYers are given the tools and training to make positive changes in their schools and communities.

7

P R O G R A M S

A N D

I N I T I A T I V E S

Inspirational Shabbatonim

Public School Summer Trips

Teens from across the Jewish spectrum come

The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ) enables public

together for NCSY Shabbaton weekends. For

school students to explore Israel while learning about

many teens, these retreats are their first Shabbat

their Jewish heritage. While in Israel, unaffiliated

experience. Others come from Orthodox homes

Jewish teens discover an array of communities and

and are eager to share their knowledge with

traditions, broadening and enriching their Jewish

their peers. Participants leave Shabbatonim

identity.

with Jewish pride, empowerment, new social connections, and a sense of Jewish unity.

96% “If NCSY has taught me one thing, it’s to never underestimate your potential – you have no idea the things you’re

Percentage of teens who returned for a second Shabbaton

Benefiting Communities through JUMP NCSY’s JUMP (Jewish Unity Mentoring Program) is a four-month leadership experience in which teens compete to develop social entrepreneurship projects

capable of doing and the

to benefit their communities. The teams then present

goals you can achieve.”

mentoring feedback.

their program to a panel of judges and receive

Biking for Scholarships Bike NCSY is a yearly bike tour that aims to raise scholarship money for NCSY students. This year Bike

- Netanya Stein, 2011 TJJ participant

NCSY gathered 130 riders from across the country to

and 2018 TJJ advisor

help NCSY teens spend a gap year in Israel.

8 N C S Y

NCSY teens participate in a disaster relief mission to Houston in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey.

Torah Learning Convention for Public School Teens Hundreds of public school teens from across North America gather for five days of intense Judaic study at the National Yarchei Kallah retreat. These students dedicate time from their winter break to study Torah and Jewish values.

Connecting NCSY Alumni NCSY Alumni Connections supports students’ transition from high school to the next stage of their Jewish journey. Whether taking a gap year in Israel or going straight to college, NCSY alumni programming helps students remain connected to their Judaism.

Social Action Missions

JSU Ingrains Jewish Identity

Whether responding to natural disasters, delivering food

NCSY runs 275 Jewish Student Union (JSU) clubs at

to the poor, or running local toy drives, NCSY’s social

public high schools across the United States and Canada,

action missions enable students to give back to their

strengthening students’ Jewish identity and connection

local and global communities.

to the Jewish people.

9

Prayer Education with NCSY’s Siddur

LEARNING Putting on a Tallit

Over the past three years, thanks to the Rothner family, NCSY and Koren Publishers have partnered to create the Koren NCSY Siddur.

Designed for teens, the full-color siddur provides ref lective questions, inspirational stories, learning, and photographic commentary.

A

G L I M P S E

Excerpt from the NCSY Siddur

I N T O

W H A T S

O U R

1

2

3

4

P A S T

N E W

Soon after its founding in 1954, NCSY began hosting regional and national Shabbaton conventions drawing hundreds of teens to celebrate Shabbat together and embrace their Jewish identity.

10 N C S Y

TJJ Celebrates its 20th Anniversary The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ), NCSY’s summer program for public school teens, celebrated its 20th anniversary this past summer. For two decades, TJJ has been bringing public school students to Israel for a fun, educational, and inspirational four-week trip.

TJJ’s growth over the past 20 years has led to 14 different trips this summer, including the specialty programs TJJ Ambassadors, and TJJ Poland.

4,000+

TJJ alumni since its inception Teens enjoy a memorable zip-lining experience at Israel’s Omega, the world’s second longest zip-line, on The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey Ambassadors trip.

11

N C S Y

S U M M E R

T R I P S

NCSY offers 19 unique summer programs in the US, Israel, and Europe that cater to teens with different interests and backgrounds. From sports to corporate internships to work with Israeli first responders, NCSY summer programs provide a panorama of experiences unbounded by geography and activity.

This summer had record participation at nearly 1,600 teens.

At Camp Maor, girls work with leading professionals in the performing arts in stage, film, dance, and vocal performance.

12 N C S Y

N U M B E R

O F

T E E N S

O N

N C S Y

S U M M E R

T R I P S

1,596 1,441 1,227

1,012 943

2 0 1 4

2 0 1 5

2 0 1 6

2 0 1 7

S U M M E R

2 0 1 8

P R O G R A M S

4G Euro

Michlelet

BILT

Next Step: Israel Internships

Camp Maor Camp Sports GIVE GIVE WEST Euro ICE Israel In Depth JSU GO JOLT JOLT Israel

Rescue Israel ReSurf Israel The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ) The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey Ambassadors The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey Ambassadors Poland

Kollel

13

T E E N S

G A T H E R

A R O U N D

T O R A H

This winter break, I joined 380 public school teens from around the world to learn Torah for five days at NCSY’s Yarchei Kallah (YK). Some teens began YK without knowing how to navigate a siddur and left with a deeper connection to tefillah. Others had never lit Shabbat candles, and at YK we experienced the beauty of Shabbat. Boys who never put on tefillin became excited about this mitzvah.

Most of us, who didn’t own a single Jewish book, left with a nice start for our libraries!

This Yarchei Kallah marked the sixth month that I have kept Shabbat. I had started keeping Shabbat during the summer, on NCSY’s Anne Samson TJJ Summer program.

Having so many people by my side to celebrate Shabbat made me feel like I had accomplished something great.

A mentor once told me, “It’s not what you do, it’s how you come about doing it.” Teens who come from a nonobservant background and decide to take on mitzvot inspire me every day. People ask how I did it all on my own.

My answer is that there is no such thing as doing it on your own when you have NCSY. Every staff member and advisor has been there for me, day or night, to learn with me on the phone or in person. They keep me going every day.

By the end of YK, we had become like family. We hugged, said our goodbyes, and planned on keeping in touch, hoping to continue our Jewish learning in the future with the friends who were there at the start of our journey.

At YK, Rabbi Lashak, an NCSY senior educator, said, “When Mashiach comes, he isn’t going to go first to Eliyahu, or Moshe Rabbeinu…He is going to go to all of the teens here on YK who chose to learn Torah during their winter break.”

-Daniella Abekassis, Yarchei Kallah participant 14 N C S Y

Teens gather to light candles Friday night at Yarchei Kallah. For some, this is their first time lighting candles to sanctify Shabbat.

15

N C S Y

L O C A T I O N S

W O R L D W I D E

North America ATLANTIC SEABOARD

Oak Park, MI

West Hartford, CT

Oceanside, NY

Catskills District, NY

Baltimore, MD

Southfield, MI

Brookline, MA

Plainview, NY

Mount Kisco, NY

Columbia, MD

West Bloomfield, MI

Framingham, MA

Port Washington, NY

Rochester, NY

Germantown, MD

Akron, OH

Lexington, MA

Queens, NY

Schenectady, NY

Gaithersburg, MD

Canton, OH

Marlborough, MA

Roslyn, NY

Syracuse, NY

Olney, MD

Cincinnati, OH

Newton, MA

Staten Island, NY

Potomac, MD

Cleveland, OH

Sharon, MA

Stony Brook, NY

WEST COAST

Sandy Spring, MD

Columbus, OH

Waltham, MA

Westchester, NY

Phoenix, AZ

Silver Spring, MD

Dayton, OH

Providence, RI

West Hempstead, NY

Scottsdale, AZ

Towson, MD

Solon, OH

Woodmere, NY

Berkeley, CA

Cherry Hill, NJ

Toledo, OH

NEW JERSEY

Allentown, PA

Youngstown, OH

East Brunswick, NJ

SOUTHERN

Calabasas, CA

Ambler, PA

Windsor, ON

Englishtown, NJ

Little Rock, AK

Cupertino, CA

Harrisburg, PA

Pittsburgh, PA

Fair Lawn, NJ

Birmingham, AL

Irvine, CA

Freehold, NJ

Aventura, FL

La Jolla, CA

Huntingdon Valley, PA

Beverly Hills, CA

Lancaster, PA

GREATER ATLANTA

Freehold Boro, NJ

Boca Raton, FL

Los Angeles, CA

Lower Merion, PA

Atlanta, GA

Hackensack, NJ

Coral Springs, FL

North Hollywood, CA

Philadelphia, PA

Alpharetta, GA

Highland Park, NJ

Hollywood, FL

Oakland, CA

Wilkes-Barre, PA

Dunwoody, GA

Hightstown, NJ

Jacksonville, FL

Palo Alto, CA

Norfolk, VA

Johns Creek, GA

Livingston, NJ

Kendall, FL

Piedmont, CA

Richmond, VA

Marietta, GA

Marlboro, NJ

Miami Beach, FL

Sacramento, CA

Virginia Beach, VA

Sandy Springs, GA

Manalapan, NJ

North Miami Beach, FL

San Diego, CA

Millburn, NJ

Palm Beach, FL

San Francisco/Marin, CA

CANADA

MIDWEST

Montclair, NJ

Parkland, FL

San Jose, CA

Calgary, AB

Des Moines, IA

Northern Highlands, NJ

Savannah, GA

San Mateo, CA

Edmonton, AB

Buffalo Grove, IL

Randolph, NJ

New Orleans, LA

Santa Monica, CA

Vancouver, BC

Chicago, IL

Teaneck, NJ

Charleston, SC

Saratoga, CA

Victoria, BC

Glenview, IL

Twin Rivers, NJ

Myrtle Beach, SC

Silicon Valley, CA

Winnipeg, MB

Northbrook, IL

West Orange, NJ

Nashville, TN

Sunnyvale, CA

Hamilton, ON

Skokie, IL

Kitchener-Waterloo, ON

Indianapolis, IN

NEW YORK

SOUTHWEST

West Hills, CA

King City, ON

South Bend, IN

Bronx, NY

Austin, TX

Woodland Hills, CA

Kingston, ON

Kansas City, KS

Brooklyn, NY

Dallas, TX

Woodside, CA

London, ON

Overland Park, KS

Cedarhurst, NY

Fort Worth, TX

Boulder, CO

Ottawa, ON

St. Louis, MO

Commack, NY

Houston, TX

Denver, CO

Toronto, ON

Minneapolis, MN

East Meadow, NY

McKinney, TX

Las Vegas, NV

Montreal, QC

Omaha, NE

Great Neck, NY

Richardson, TX

Eugene, OR

Memphis, TN

Hewlett, NY

San Antonio, TX

Portland, OR

Milwaukee, WI

Inwood, NY

CENTRAL EAST Ann Arbor, MI

Thousand Oaks, CA

El Paso, TX

Lawrence, NY

UPSTATE NEW YORK

Bloomfield Hills, MI

NEW ENGLAND

Long Beach, NY

Albany, NY

Farmington Hills, MI

New Haven, CT

Merrick, NY

Binghamton, NY

Huntington Woods, MI

Stamford, CT

New York, NY

Buffalo, NY

16 N C S Y

Seattle, WA

NCSY Financials

F U N D I N G

S O U R C E S

$14,430,000

$11,191,000

OU

Donations

Israel 41% 32%

Beit Shemesh Efrat Elazar Hashmonaim Jerusalem Kfar Saba Maalei Adumim Modi’in Neve Daniel Nof Ayalon Ramat Beit Shemesh

27% $9,261,000 Program Fees and Other

Total Funding: $34,882,000

S P E N D I N G

S O U R C E S

$19,263,000 $9,585,000

Region Spend

Summer Programs

South America 55% 28% Buenos Aires, Argentina Santiago, Chile

$851,000 | 2% 6% | $2,092,000 Administrative

Staff Training & Development $3,008,000 | 9% National YearRound Programs

Total Spending: $34,799,000 The financial information here includes the total communal impact of OU programs worldwide. In addition, the OU provides significant support for all of its programs through facilities, management and administrative services, e.g. IT, Finance, HR and Communications. Those expenses are not ref lected in the program’s financials.

17

yachad.org Yachad services include counseling for individuals and families, weekend retreats, and support for parents and siblings. Yachad also offers vocational training and job placement, professional advocates, summer camps, special needs yeshivas, Shabbat programs, and Day Habilitation programs.

18 Y A C H A D

A

YA C H A D :

P L A C E

W H E RE

E V E RYO N E

B E LO N G S

600 Institutions used Yachad’s Purim Megillah powerpoint to help those with hearing impairments follow along

Yachad is a global organization dedicated to addressing the needs of Jewish individuals with disabilities, ensuring their inclusion in every aspect of Jewish life. Through inclusive programming, Yachad helps educate and advocate for greater understanding, acceptance, outreach, and opportunity for the disabled community. Most importantly, Yachad helps

28 Inclusive summer programs offered in 2018

foster unity amongst Am Yisrael by celebrating the uniqueness of every Jew.

500+ Teachers trained for facilitating inclusion in a mainstream classroom

200 Inclusive Shabbatonim across North America

For nine years and counting, Team Yachad has run hand-in-hand for disability inclusion at the Fitbit Miami Marathon and Half Marathon. All monies raised go directly to help those with disabilities attend Shabbatonim, summer programs and an array of other inclusive activities.

19

P R O G R A M S

A N D

I N I T I A T I V E S

Shabbatonim for Inclusion Across the country, Yachad Shabbatonim cultivate understanding, mutual respect, and camaraderie

“Despite knowing that

within the Jewish community by bringing individuals

Eli was having many

for prayer, Shabbat meals, singing, and more.

with disabilities and community participants together

difficulties, JUF accepted him and helped him achieve his goals. He is currently working at a job JUF found for him and is an altogether different person.”

Yachad Leads a Service Mission Yachad ran the first-ever inclusive community service mission in partnership with Yeshiva University High School for Girls. Participants volunteered at Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, Pearlstone Farm, and Tudor Heights Assisted Living Facility.

Camping Opportunities for All - Ruth Finkelstein, Parent

Yachad is the largest provider of Jewish camping opportunities for people with disabilities. Yachad partners with 17 Jewish summer camps to offer a wide variety of placement programs catered to each person’s needs.

95%

Of Marilyn David IVDU Upper School students passed the New York State Regents exams

Yachad Yeshiva League Basketball Team This year was the inaugural season of the Golden Knights, IVDU’s inclusive basketball team, which plays against schools in the Yeshiva League.

20 Y A C H A D

Yachad raises community awareness about inclusion through sensitivity trainings across North America.

Vocational Services Help Find Jobs

IVDU Schools Teach Life Skills

The Jewish Union Foundation (JUF) is dedicated to enhancing

Located in Brooklyn and Long Island, Yachad’s IVDU

the lives of individuals with disabilities by working closely

schools offer a comprehensive and nurturing

with various state funding agencies. JUF offers a wide array

educational environment for Jewish students with

of services, ranging from Day Habilitation programs to

special needs, ages 5 to 21. IVDU provides students

Vocational Training Services to Respite Services for families.

with the core academic, social and life skills they

Through JUF, participants achieve greater independence and

need to reach their highest potential and develop

become better able to participate in the full spectrum of life.

into productive citizens in their communities.

21

A

S U C C E S S F U L

A L I Y A H

My wife and I made aliyah five years ago. Our two youngest children, Mendy (23) and Suri (27), who were both born with Down syndrome, came with us. One of our greatest concerns – and potential “aliyah deal breaker” – was the social and safety issues that come with moving to a foreign country.

Yachad Israel helped ease our transition into our new community. Yachad’s social activities, events, and friendships have been invaluable in helping our children adjust to Israeli life. Every member of the staff works hard to ensure the safety and success of Yachad members and makes Yachad experiences fun, inclusive, and memorable. I cannot imagine what our aliyah would have been like without the Yachad team. We have mementos and photos posted on every wall of our home to remind us of the joyous times spent together with our friends from Yachad Israel.

Thank you for enriching the lives of our children and their friends and families.

-E. Goldstock, Jerusalem

300+ 22 Y A C H A D

People attended the Yachad Family Shabbaton in Israel

Yachad Israel launched in 2012.

Current programs include relationship building, the Slice of Torah Learning Program with Yeshivat HaKotel, and a weekly buddy program in partnership with seven local schools.

23

Y A C H A D

L O C A T I O N S

New England Toronto Detroit New York Chicago

Cleveland New Jersey Baltimore

Los Angeles

Israel

Dallas

South Florida

Yachad’s IVDU teachers help students prepare for social interactions, teaching them how to best communicate with everyone from peers to potential employers.

24 Y A C H A D

Yachad Financials F U N D I N G

1,000+

S O U R C E S $900,000 | 5% In-Kind Contributions

$8,987,000 Program Fees & Tuition Payments

$3,615,000

49%

Donations

20%

Attendees at Shabbatonim in the Chicago region

13%

13%

$2,258,000 $2,278,000

Government Support

OU

Total Funding: $18,038,000

S P E N D I N G

S O U R C E S

$3,798,000 IVDU Schools $5,081,000

21% 28%

Yachad Regional Inclusion Programs*

17% $1,005,000 | 5% $3,034,000

15%

14%

Summer Programs

$2,502,000 Administrative & Other

$2,664,000 Adult Vocational Services

Clinical Services**

Total Spending: $18,084,000

The financial information here includes the total communal impact of OU programs worldwide. In addition, the OU provides significant support for all of its programs through facilities, management and administrative services, e.g. IT, Finance, HR and Communications. Those expenses are not ref lected in the program’s financials. *Yachad Inclusion Programs includes 750K of in-kind expenses **Clinical Services includes 150K of in-kind expenses

25

advocacy.ou.org Pictured L-R: OU Advocacy Center Chairman, Jerry Wolasky; OU Advocacy Mission Baltimore Delegate, Isaac Pretter; US Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD); OU Advocacy Center Executive Director Nathan Diament.

26 O U

A D V O C A C Y

O U A D V O C A C Y:

S E C U RI N G

T H E

J E W I S H

F U T U RE

The OU Advocacy Center is the nonpartisan public policy arm of the OU which lobbies on $2,100,000,000

behalf of the Orthodox community nationwide.

In federal grants preserved for teacher training at nonpublic schools via the Every Student Succeeds Act

Through its advocacy in Washington, DC, and in state capitals, it protects the future of the Jewish people and ensures that Am Yisrael continues to thrive. During the past year, OU Advocacy has pioneered new ways to save for K-12 education, improved the safety of synagogues and day

$90,000,000 Allocated to aid disasterdamaged houses of worship

schools, bolstered the security of Israel, and provided unprecedented disaster relief for Jewish communities.

$60,000,000 Secured for security at schools, houses of worship, and other nonprofit institutions

140% Increase from 2017 Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding

The OU Advocacy Center’s Annual Leadership Mission to Washington, DC, included a visit to the White House to meet with top administration officials.

Pictured: R-L: OU President, Moishe Bane; US Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman; US Special Representative for International Negotiations, Jason Greenblatt; Executive Director for the OU Advocacy Center, Nathan Diament, OU Board of Directors; Chairman Howard Tzvi Friedman; OU Advocacy Center Chairman, Jerry Wolasky.

27

P R O G R A M S

I N I T I A T I V E S

Promoting Expansion of 529 Savings Accounts

First-Ever Federal Disaster Relief for Synagogues

A pressing issue for American parents, especially

After almost 20 years of lobbying, the OU Advocacy

those with children in nonpublic schools,

Center ushered in a new era of fairness for disaster-

is affordable education. The OU Advocacy

damaged houses of worship. In 2018, Congress

Center has prompted Congress to adopt a new

passed a law allowing houses of worship to become

provision which expands college 529 savings

eligible for Federal Emergency Management Agency

accounts to include K–12 education. This

(FEMA) relief. The new law retroactively covers

legislation took effect in 2018, immediately

certain eligible houses of worship affected by

after which the OU Advocacy Center provided a

Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and Hurricanes Harvey

host of exclusive resources to help families avail

and Irma in 2017, allocating almost $90 billion in

themselves of this program and more easily

overdue disaster aid for houses of worship damaged

save.

in those calamitous storms.

Making History in the Fight to Protect Israel OU Advocacy was one of the first organizations

28 O U

A N D

Funding for Community Security

to endorse the passage of the Taylor Force Act,

OU Advocacy works with federal policymakers

which was introduced during the OU Advocacy’s

to implement the Nonprofit Security Grant

2016 Leadership Mission to DC. There,

Program (NSGP) in order to make schools and

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) announced

other community institutions safe and secure. As

that he would introduce legislation following

anti-Semitic incidents in the United States surged

the stabbing death of 28-year-old American

by 57 percent in 2017, the OU Advocacy Center

graduate student and former US Army Officer,

successfully lobbied for doubling the NSGP funding

Taylor Force, while on a class trip to Israel. This

to an unprecedented $50 million, which Congress

bipartisan legislation suspended American

approved in 2018. For the first time, Congress also

financial aid to the Palestinian Authority as long

authorized an additional $10 million in security

as the PA continued payouts to terrorists and

grants for synagogues and schools located outside

their families. The Taylor Force Act later became

major metropolitan areas, and doubled the amount

law in March 2018.

of the individual awards to $150,000.

A D V O C A C Y

OU President Moishe Bane; OU Advocacy Center Executive Director Nathan Diament; OU Board of Directors Chairman Howard Tzvi Friedman; OU Advocacy Center Chairman Jerry Wolasky present award to US Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) for his work to pass legislation to make disaster-damaged synagogues and other houses of worship eligible for FEMA funding.

F E D E R A L

N O N P R O F I T

S E C U R I T Y

G R A N T

P R O G R A M

F U N D I N G

2 0 0 5 - 2 0 18

$10 Million $50 Million

$25 Million

Not Funded

$25 Million

$19 Million $15 Million

$20 Million

$19 Million

$15 Million $10 Million

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2 011

2012

$10 Million

2013

$13 Million

2014

$25 Million

$13 Million

2015

2016

2017

2 0 18

Total NSGP/DHS 2005-2018: $269 Million

29

CEL EB R AT ING EMB A S S Y ’S

T HE

U S

HI S TO RI C

RELO C AT I O N

TO

JERU S A L EM

For decades, the Orthodox Union advocated tenaciously and passionately for the United States to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and to relocate its embassy from Tel Aviv to its rightful place in Israel’s capital city. At an OU gala in 1974, former vice president Hubert Humphrey called on the American government to recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. Subsequently, OU leaders have raised the issue with US senators and every US president beginning with Jimmy Carter.

“Finally, Israel’s capital is beginning to get the recognition it deserves.”

The OU Advocacy Center renewed its ongoing push in 1999, when it moved its office to Washington, DC. Year after year, OU Advocacy leaders worked on legislation, organized rallies, and led media campaigns. In February 2017, the OU Advocacy Center brought its case to senior Trump Administration officials. Less than a year later, the announcement came that the time had come to transfer the US Embassy to Jerusalem, and the historic move was underway. On May 14, 2018, the same day the US government hosted an embassy dedication ceremony in Jerusalem, the Orthodox Union celebrated the Embassy move in twin receptions in Jerusalem and New York. Finally, Israel’s capital is beginning to get the recognition it deserves.

30 O U

A D V O C A C Y

The OU presents US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman with a handcrafted mezuzah during the OU’s reception in Jerusalem to celebrate the historic move of the US Embassy.

OU Advocacy & Teach Advocacy Financials OU A DVOCAC Y & TEACH A DVOCAC Y FUNDING SOURCES

$1,802,000 Donations

$44,000 | 1%

42%

Program Fees

18% 20% $852,000

$739,000

19%

Teach Network Contribution*

School Income

(See pages 88-95)

$817,000 OU Contribution

Total Funding: $4,254,000

OU A DVOCAC Y & TEACH A DVOCAC Y SPENDING SOURCES

$1,062,000

25%

Federal Advocacy

75% $3,192,000 Teach Network (See pages 88-95)

Total Spending: $4,254,000 The financial information here includes the total communal impact of OU programs worldwide. In addition, the OU provides significant support for all of its programs through facilities, management and administrative services, e.g. IT, Finance, HR and Communications. Those expenses are not ref lected in the program’s financials. *Teach Network advocates nationally at the state level. OU Advocacy advocates at the federal level.

31

ou.org/women Sivan Rahav Meir, news anchorwoman and author, addressed 1,500 students and adults in the NY/NJ area during the 21st Century Teshuvah – A Synergy of Media & Meaning weekend on Shabbat Shuvah 5779.

32 W O M E N ’ S

I N I T I AT I V E

T H E W O M E N ’ S I N I T I AT I V E :

EDUCAT ION

A ND

INSPIR AT ION

F OR

WOMEN

The OU Women’s Initiative works with

93 Communities applied for the Women’s Initiative Challenge Grant

Orthodox communities nationwide to identify and address women’s spiritual, educational and communal needs. The Women’s Initiative sponsors and facilitates innovative Torah learning opportunities, professional and lay leadership training for women, and mentorship

937 Women signed up for the monthly Rosh Chodesh Initiative learning program

support for rebbetzins. The Women’s Initiative aims to standardize best practices in areas of Jewish life specific to women and increase recognition of their exceptional contributions to their families, institutions and communities.

70 Communities joined together for the Standing Together at Sinai Shavuot campaign

22 Communities participated in the Sense & Sensitivity Mikvah Attendant Training program

Rebbetzin Dr. Adina Shmidman, Director of the OU’s Women’s Initiative, discusses the Mikvah Attendant Training program with Rebbetzin Estee Silver, RN, Fertility Coordinator, Shady Grove Fertility, Washington DC.

33

P R O G R A M S

A N D

I N I T I A T I V E S

Standing Together at Sinai The Women’s Initiative inaugural educational

“Communities like ours now have the direction,

program, Standing Together at Sinai, which took place during Shavuot, partnered with 70 synagogues across America to create programming featuring female scholars. Reaching women

resources, and programming

of all ages, these programs were designed to

ideas they need to create

engagement, while showcasing the rigor and beauty

deepen women’s spiritual growth and community of women’s Torah scholarship.

an outlet for what they’ve always wanted to do on

21st Century Teshuvah

behalf of the women of our

The media is ubiquitous in our lives and has a

congregation.”

This year on Shabbat Shuva, the Women’s Initiative

significant impact on the Modern Orthodox world. hosted 21st Century Teshuvah – A Synergy of Media & Meaning. Sivan Rahav Meir, one of the most popular media personalities in Israel today, addressed 1,500 students and adults in the NY/NJ area. Her talk was

- Marlena Cantor, 2018 Challenge Grant presenter

4,514

Unique views were registered on the OU website for Rosh Chodesh shiurim, from across 12 countries and 33 US states

shared widely via social media.

Virtual Rosh Chodesh Lunch 'n Learn In an effort to promote Torah scholarship and provide spiritual nourishment by and for women, the Women’s Initiative launched the Virtual Rosh Chodesh Lunch ‘n Learn in Elul 5778 (August 2018), a monthly video series featuring female Torah scholars.

34 W O M E N ’ S

I N I T I AT I V E

The Women’s Initiative aims to educate and enhance the spiritual involvement of young women in their communities.

Sense & Sensitivity The Jewish family is known as the ideal institution in Judaism.

Yet, sometimes it is fraught with tension, trauma, or major stressors such as fertility challenges. To address these issues, the Women’s Initiative, in partnership with the OU’s Department of Synagogue & Community Services, launched Sense & Sensitivity, a professional development program for mikvah attendants and administrators, giving them the tools to assist women dealing with out-of-the-ordinary challenges.

Celebrating Simchat Torah Together Women’s voices were heard nationwide on Simchat Torah thanks to the OU Women’s Initiative, which partnered with 32 synagogues to host Celebrating Simchat Torah Together 5779. On Simchat Torah morning, shiurim were given in each synagogue by local female scholars.

35

S O M E T H I N G

F O R

E V E R Y O N E

The Women’s Initiative has been privileged to partner with communities across North America that share an interest in increasing opportunities for women and girls in their respective communities. Keneseth Beth Israel (KBI) in Richmond, VA, has embraced these opportunities with excitement.

KBI, led by Rabbi Dovid and Rebbetzin Aliza Asher, was one of the recipients of the inaugural Challenge Grant in May 2018.* In an effort to involve more women in learning, KBI created a “Tools for Life Seminar” program, led by synagogue member Marlena Cantor. The program, which took place throughout June and July 2018, consisted of four Torah classes, featuring both in-person and virtual presentations. The program impacted 50 participating women of all ages. Babysitting services were provided so that young mothers could join as well.

KBI also participated in the Simchat Torah Scholars Program: Celebrating Simchat Torah Together. Seizing the opportunity to join forces again with the Women’s Initiative, KBI recruited Rebbetzin Tamar Livingstone to present a shiur during the holiday.

Although the KBI community is small and diverse, there is a continual commitment to provide the women of the community with quality, appealing programs so that there is “something for everyone.” KBI makes an effort to ensure that women in the Richmond Jewish community have access to learning at the advanced level offered by the Women’s Initiative. *In its first year, the Challenge Grant has awarded $80,000 to fund programming for women in 16 communities.

36 W O M E N ’ S

I N I T I AT I V E

Women’s Initiative Financials

F U N D I N G

S O U R C E S $44,000 Donations & Miscellaneous $4,000 | 1%

10%

Event Revenue

89% $395,000 OU

Total Funding: $443,000

S P E N D I N G

S O U R C E S

$207,000 Operating Expenses & Miscellaneous

$80,000

47%

Allocations

18%

35%

$156,000

80 teens from seven New York Orthodox high schools explored tefillah challenges and developed heightened tefillah selfawareness at the Tefillah Yom Iyun, hosted by the Women’s Initiative and New York NCSY.

Advertising & Event Expenses

Total Spending: $443,000 The financial information here includes the total communal impact of OU programs worldwide. In addition, the OU provides significant support for all of its programs through facilities, management and administrative services, e.g. IT, Finance, HR and Communications. Those expenses are not ref lected in the program’s financials.

37

oukosher.org In addition to products and ingredients, OU Kosher also certifies restaurants and cafeterias around the United States and Israel.

38 O U

KO S H E R

O U

KO S H E R :

S T RE N GT H E N I N G

K A S H RU T

S TA N DA RD S

OU Kosher combines expertise in Jewish law with proficiency in modern food production

1,101,036 Certified plant productions

to ensure consumers have access to kosher food meeting the highest quality kashrut supervision. Thanks to the 1,000 Rabbinic Field Representatives located across North America and throughout the world – from Europe to Australia, and from China to South Africa – the

9, 20 9

OU kosher symbol now appears on the labels of

OU Certified plants

nearly 70 percent of America’s kosher-certified food products.

62,500 Inspections by Rabbinic Field Representatives in 2018

101 Countries reached through OU Kosher

Rabbi Menachem Genack, OU Kosher Chief Executive Officer, speaks at a kashrut training seminar.

39

P R O G R A M S

“With the OU Kosher app, I never have to guess what’s kosher and what’s not. Having direct access to a thorough kosher directory makes finding kosher products easier than ever before.”

A N D

R E S O U R C E S

Comprehensive Pesach Resources In order to meet the kashrut standards that the Jewish community demands on Pesach, OU Kosher invests in additional Pesach resources each year.

This includes increased support staff and hours of operation, radio appearances by OU administrators, and the distribution of over 91,000 Pesach Guides for consumers.

ASK OU (Advanced Seminars on Kashrut) Keeping a kosher kitchen involves more than purchasing kosher products. In order to educate families about hilchot kashrut, the Harry H. Beren

- Emunah Winer-Rosenstein

ASK OU seminars bring OU Kosher experts to schools and synagogues throughout North America and offers online kashrut shiurim for communities worldwide.

5,613

OUCertified companies

OU Kosher App: Real-Time Product Search Kosher consumers now have a convenient way to access kosher resources on the go with the OU Kosher app. The app features OU product alerts, a Pesach product guide, and direct access to the information hotline for immediate assistance with kashrut questions.

40 O U

KO S H E R

Numerous OU Kosher products and labels are on display at Kosherfest, the world’s largest and most attended koshercertified products trade show.

84,881

Downloads of the OU Kosher App

Answering Your Kashrut Questions The OU Kosher Hotline and Webbe Rebbe email service respond to 150 inquiries a day, with questions ranging from current certification news to complicated issues requiring real-time assistance. As Passover approaches, the inquiries can increase to over 800 per day.

41

O U

K O S H E R ’ S

• American Samoa • Argentina • Armenia • Australia • Austria • Azerbaijan • Belarus • Belgium • Bolivia • Brazil • British Virgin Islands • Bulgaria • Cambodia • Canada • Cape Verde • Chile • Colombia

• Costa Rica • Cyprus • Czech Republic • Denmark • Dominican Republic • Ecuador • Egypt • El Salvador • Estonia • Ethiopia • Fiji • Finland • France • Georgia • Germany • Ghana • Greece

A

42 O U

KO S H E R

G L O B A L

• Guatemala • Honduras • Hungary • Iceland • India • Indonesia • Ireland • Israel • Italy • Ivory Coast • Japan • Latvia • Lithuania • Luxembourg • Madagascar • Malaysia • Maldives • Marshall Islands

G L I M P S E

R E A C H

• Mauritius • Mexico • Moldova • Morocco • Myanmar • New Zealand • Nicaragua • Nigeria • Norway • Oman • Pakistan • Panama • Paraguay • People’s Republic of China • Peru • Philippines • Poland

I N T O

O U R

• Polynesia • Portugal • Republic of Macedonia • Romania • Russia • Saudi Arabia • Senegal • Serbia • Singapore • Slovakia • Slovenia • Solomon Islands • South Africa • South Korea • Spain • Sri Lanka • Swaziland

P A S T

• Sweden • Switzerland • Tahiti • Taiwan • Thailand • The Netherlands • Tunisia • Turkey • Uganda • Ukraine • United Kingdom • United States • Uzbekistan • Vietnam • West Indies Federation

“The OU symbol is a quality symbol, and

70%

people associate that with something that is above what is average.”

Of America’s kosher food products are certified with the OU kosher symbol

- Reg Nelson, Director of Global Procurement at Jelly Belly Candy Company

In the early 20th century, most Orthodox Jews chose food products based on ingredients, without real knowledge of whether the food actually complied with kashrut standards. As food production became increasingly more complex, the need for reliable kashrut certification resulted in the creation of OU Kosher in 1924.

43

THE PEPA & RABBI JOSEPH

KARASICK DEPARTMENT OF

oucommunity.org Over 180 community leaders attended the Marriage Leadership Conference hosted by the OU and Shalom Task Force.

44 S Y N A G O G U E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S

S Y N A G O G U E

&

C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S

H E L P I N G

S Y N AG O G U E S

C O M M U N I T I E S

1,500+ Torah topics offered through OU Speakers Bureau

A N D

T H RI V E

The OU Pepa and Rabbi Joseph Karasick Department of Synagogue & Community Services works with synagogues and communities across North America by providing religious, educational, social, and operational support. Regional Directors are

400+ Participants in educational conferences for rebbetzins and kallah teachers in California, Florida, and New York

the conduit to a robust network of rabbis and rebbetzins, executive directors, youth staff, and business experts who can share best practices and help communities to thrive both spiritually and socially.

113 Families have relocated to 30 communities since the 2017 Community Fair

18 Communities from ten states participated in the second Communal Growth Leadership Retreat

The OU’s Speakers Bureau provides access to over 200 presenters and over 1,500 topics.

45

P R O G R A M S

Jewish Community Fair The biennial OU Jewish Community Fair attracts thousands of people looking for affordable Jewish communities. Representatives from over 50 thriving Orthodox communities from across the United States are present, along with Nefesh B’Nefesh aliyah advisors. The Department of Synagogue & Community Services provides assistance and services to communities aspiring to grow and attract new families.

A N D

I N I T I A T I V E S

Regional Directors Connect Communities Regional Directors provide local, on-the-ground support to synagogues and assist with sustainability, strategic planning, leadership training, strengthening youth departments, and membership growth. Regional Directors also serve as liaisons between the synagogues in their area, Orthodox communities across North America, and OU programs and services.

“Our community has participated in the OU Community Fair for

234

Speakers now listed in the OU Speakers Bureau

many years. This event has been the catalyst that has driven the very successful growth

Providing Top Speakers to Communities

initiative in Richmond.�

The Speakers Bureau now offers more than 230 speaker choices in 120 categories and over 1,500 topics, for synagogues nationwide to help engage and inform their communities. Hundreds of

- Stuart Cantor, Richmond, VA, community liaison

46 S Y N A G O G U E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S

scholar-in-residence programs serve as a resource of diverse and contemporary knowledge for all synagogues and communities.

Rabbinic and Rebbetzin conferences help a congregation’s spiritual leaders in areas such as counseling, best practices, and time management.

Conferences for Our Spiritual Leaders

Partnering to Certify Kallah Teachers

To help congregational rabbis and rebbetzins develop

A joint venture between Nishmat’s Miriam Glaubach

their skills, the Department of Synagogue &

Center, the OU, and the Rabbinical Council of America

Community Services offers rabbinic development

(RCA) was launched to establish a kallah teacher

conferences which provide professional and personal

certification program. Nishmat's yoatzot halachah,

enrichment, and enable synagogue rabbis to better lead

rabbis, doctors, and other community professionals

their communities. Topics vary from how to engage

co-teach the text-based, 16-session webinar certification

board members to the art of personal counseling.

course. Seventeen women were certified in the first

Additionally, the OU hosts conferences for synagogue

cohort and will help ensure that brides and new couples

rebbetzins where they can learn, network, and

have access to well-qualified kallah teachers who will

brainstorm leadership techniques together.

enable them to enter married life with confidence.

47

Professional Development for Synagogue Executive Directors The OU National Synagogue Executive Directors Conference (EDC) is the professional development and networking summit for synagogue executive directors from across North America, focusing on the everchanging synagogue and community environments and how executive directors help shape synagogue

Relocating for a Better Quality of Life The Synagogue & Community Services Department brought 18 communities together for their second Communal Growth Leadership Retreat. The retreat allowed communities to share their stories and unique qualities with those interested in relocating.

Communities participated from ten states, including Virginia, Tennessee, Ohio, and Colorado.

policies.

The OU hosts Jewish Community Fairs and Communal Growth Leadership Retreats for families looking to relocate to a new community to meet their needs.

48 S Y N A G O G U E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S

“If it were not for the OU’s Synagogue & Community Services, the Stamford community would never have experienced the sustained growth that we have witnessed in the last few years.”

- Michael Feldstein, Stamford, CT

Providing a Music Database for Cantors The OU's cantorial program, Nusach HaTefillah, offers an online database of chazanut recordings and lectures by world-famous cantors, ensuring that professional cantors and baalei tefillah worldwide have access to a wide range of cantorial melodies.

Lay Leadership Development Synagogues are guided by their lay leadership boards and committees. The OU Department of Synagogue & Community Services provides lay leadership programming to both new and seasoned board members, enhancing the skills necessary to strengthen and lead the synagogue.

Empowering Young Professionals In an effort to cultivate future community leaders, the OU Department of Synagogue & Community Services offers innovative leadership events tailored exclusively to young professionals. The array of programs includes guest speakers and peer networking, encouraging young professionals to take initiative and become our leaders of tomorrow.

49

ouisrael.org OU Israel’s Gesharim program helps young, disconnected Israeli youth prepare for and celebrate their Bar/Bat Mitzvahs.

50 O U

I S R A E L

O U

I S R A E L :

A

P L A C E

C A L L

W E

C A N

A L L

H O M E

100,000 + Visits to the OU Israel Center annually for shiurim, special events and trips

OU Israel serves Jews of various ages and religious backgrounds. For both tourists and olim, the OU Israel Center serves as a hub of Torah study and Jewish culture for the English speaking community in Israel. Additionally, OU Israel provides outreach activities focused on at-risk Israeli youth in disadvantaged

600,000 +

neighborhoods throughout the country.

Copies of Torah Tidbits are distributed annually

4,000 Youth from throughout Israel attend Oraita, Zula, and Makom Balev monthly programming

Since its establishment in 1995, Camp Dror has been a home away from home for English speaking campers from Israel and around the world. Participants spend meaningful summers hiking and traveling while residing in the Golan region, and many campers rejoin as counselors when they get older.

51

C U R R E N T

P RRO A G RM A M P R O G SS A N D

I N I T I A T I V E S

OU Israel Hosts Mega 70th Yom HaAtzmaut Celebration in Jerusalem

Learning and Social Opportunities for Women

More than 2,500 people gathered at Jerusalem’s

of Mrs. Linda Pruwer-Brachfeld, a”h. The learning

“First Station” to celebrate 70 years of the State

programs focus on the halachic, hashkafic, biblical,

of Israel, through prayer, song, and dance. In

and personal perspectives of the upcoming Hebrew

recognition of this milestone and the OU’s impact

month. Participants come from all over Israel and

on Anglo olim, the OU selected a prime venue

include religiously affiliated women as well as those

in the heart of Jerusalem for a moving musical

from less religious backgrounds.

L’Ayla, OU Israel’s Women’s Learning Initiative, offers monthly Rosh Chodesh seminars in loving memory

davening led by Rabbi Shlomo Katz.

Partnering with the Semichat Chaver Program The Semichat Chaver Program (SCP) weekly halachic

P R O G R A M L O C A T I O N S

study program, under the inspiring leadership of Rabbi Elyada Goldvicht, is designed to meet the needs of the young professional Jewish man.

It focuses on both the practical and the ethical meaning of the halacha, granting attendees with a Semichat Chaver certificate at its conclusion.

• Acre • Ariel • Beit Shemesh • Dimona • Efrat • Elazar • Hashmonaim • Hatzor • Holon • Jerusalem • Kfar Saba • Kiryat Gat • Kiryat Malachi • Kiryat Shmona • Ma’aleh Adumim

52 O U

I S R A E L

• Modi’in • Nahariya • Nazareth Illit • Netanya • Neve Daniel • Nof Ayalon • Ofakim • Ra’anana • Ramat Beit Shemesh • Ramat Hasharon • Rehovot • Sderot • Tel Aviv-Jaffa • Tiberias • Yeruham

Partnering to Include Special Needs Campers This past summer, Camp Dror partnered with Yachad to enable youth with special needs to experience the summer of a lifetime. Camp Dror’s integration of special needs campers is the only program of its kind in Israel. In addition to providing a wonderful summer experience, the Yachad-Dror partnership teaches the mainstream campers and staff how to accept, include, and respect those with special needs.

Rabbi Shlomo Katz, popular singer and songwriter, leads the special prayer ceremony at Jerusalem’s “First Station” for OU Israel’s 70th Yom HaAtzmaut celebration.

Summer Fun at Camp Dror

Helping At-Risk Youth

Established in 1995, Camp Dror is a two-and-a-half week

OU Israel operates 21 Youth Centers primarily in development

sleepaway camp located in Israel’s northern region. It

communities throughout Israel. OU Israel flagship

provides hundreds of English speaking boys and girls from

programs, including The Jack E. Gindi Oraita Program,

Israel and around the world with a unique combination of

Makom Balev and The Pearl & Harold Jacobs Zula Outreach

leadership development, summer fun, Zionism and Torah

Center, instill at-risk youth with Jewish values and skills to

learning.

ensure they progress as contributing citizens of Israel.

A Hub for Anglo Olim

Zula Band Album Launch

The OU’s Seymour J. Abrams Jerusalem World Center provides

The Pearl & Harold Jacobs Zula Outreach Center for at-risk

a welcoming environment, spiritual inspiration, and a

youth started the Zula band three years ago, and celebrated

familiar social network for English speakers of all ages. The

the release of its first music album this year. The Zula center

center also serves as a venue for many OU programs such

strongly emphasizes music as a way to connect to G-d, heal,

as those of NCSY and Yachad.

and bring at-risk youth back to normative behavior.

53

R E T U R N I N G H O M E

By the way Tzion* looks today, one would never guess that he faced many struggles growing up, ones that severely threatened his chance for societal success.

Tzion’s parents divorced when he was eight, and he was raised by his mother who had a debilitating chronic illness. She was not always able – physically and emotionally - to be there for him like most parents. Tzion’s father moved away after the divorce and did not play a role in his life.

In the eighth grade, Tzion was introduced to OU Israel’s Jack E. Gindi Oraita Youth Center, an after-school club that provides a fun, empowering, and educational setting for at-risk youth throughout Israel. Tzion started coming to the Oraita club located across the street from his home, where his counselors soon became his role models, and his club members became like brothers. Throughout high school, Tzion was an active member, ingraining Jewish values, gaining self-esteem, and building meaningful relationships.

“When I needed a father, I crossed the street to the Oraita club, and there I had a father,” Tzion says, describing his relationship with his counselor who accompanied him and his friends from 9th grade through graduation into their IDF enrollment and beyond. “I had lots of challenges growing up, and the Oraita club served as a warm environment which helped me through my hardest of times.”

Today, Tzion has completed an engineering program, has a career in the IDF, and has a lovely wife and daughter. As Tzion defends the State of Israel in the IDF and builds his family, For many youth, Makom Balev is the Oraita staff contact him regularly to offer him support and only place they can turn for emotional encouragement. Tzion also volunteers as a counselor in the club support and guidance. The staff offers where hefor grew up,adults determined be a father figure for others. advice young as theytoenter the army or national service, train for a *Name has been changed to respect privacy. profession and become adults.

54 O U

I S R A E L

For many, OU Israel Youth Centers are the only place they can turn for emotional support and guidance. The staff offers advice for young adults as they enter the army or national service, train for a profession and become adults.

OU Israel Financials

F U N D I N G

S O U R C E S

$1,385,000

$1,072,000

OU

Donations

23%

30%

19% 28% $1,314,000

$875,000

Program Fees

Government, Jewish Agency, & Grant Support

Total Funding: $4,646,00

S P E N D I N G

S O U R C E S

$3,599,000 Programming

80%

20%

$917,000 Administrative

Total Spending: $4,516,00 The financial information here includes the total communal impact of OU programs worldwide. In addition, the OU provides significant support for all of its programs through facilities, management and administrative services, e.g. IT, Finance, HR and Communications. Those expenses are not ref lected in the program’s financials.

55

oujlic.org The 489 ongoing chavrutot with students and OU-JLIC educators learn topics that include Chumash, Navi, Gemara, and Mussar.

56 O U - J L I C

O U - J L I C :

L E A D E R S

O F

TO M O RRO W

College is a defining time for students, as

4,138 Students served by OU-JLIC in 2018

they determine their career paths, clarify their priorities and values, and plan for the future.

OU-JLIC (Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus) fosters an ongoing commitment to Torah study and lifestyle, providing a warm and welcoming home for Jewish students on

2,683 Students received personal and halachic counseling from educators

campus. Now in its 19th year, the OU-JLIC’s network of Torah educators currently reside at 21 campuses in the United States, Canada, and Israel.

2,613 Students participated regularly in social programs

1 ,495 Students connected to regular Torah learning

Thanks in part to the many Torah learning opportunities on campus provided

by OU-JLIC couples, 90% of students said OU-JLIC made an impact on their Jewish growth while attending university.

57

P R O G R A M S

A N D

I N I T I A T I V E S

Heart to Heart Connects Students to Jewish Life

Promoting Student Leadership on Campus

Heart to Heart (H2H) provides funding, training

This past year the OU, in partnership with World

and inspiration for students to run Shabbat

Mizrachi, launched Yavneh - a student leadership

meals, intercollegiate Shabbatonim, and

initiative on campuses across North America.

student-led Pesach seders on campus. H2H

Yavneh strengthens college students’ religious

connects students to meaningful Jewish life and

commitment by empowering them with training,

vibrant, supportive communities.

resources, and opportunities to build religious communities and Jewish life on campus. Yavneh consists of a fellowship, initiatives like Heart to Heart, and a global movement nurtured by intercollegiate Shabbatonim and leadership conferences.

1,800+

Students reached through Yavneh’s Heart to Heart Shabbat and Holiday meals

63

Students trained, mentored and supported by the Yavneh Fellowship in its first year

90%

Of students said OU- JLIC made an impact on their Jewish growth at university

Summer Internships in Jerusalem In partnership with Oraita and World Mizrachi, along with the generous support of Nefesh

150

58 O U - J L I C

Programs run by Yavneh Fellows on campus, including ASU’s March Mitzvah Madness and a Kosher meal plan at USC

B’Nefesh, the OU-JLIC’s Summer in Jerusalem program offers a unique opportunity for college students to live, learn, and work in Jerusalem.

Internships are set up through Career Israel, and the program provides Torah classes, a vibrant beit midrash, and social programming each evening.

With the recent launch of JLIConnections, there are now more matchmaking opportunities for the Orthodox community.

Matchmaking for Our Students and Alumni With the growing number of single alumni each year, OU-JLIC partnered with several local Jewish organizations to create JLIConnections, an initiative to connect Jewish singles via a matchmaking platform. Current OU-JLIC educators, past educators, and alumni act as connectors for OU-JLIC students and alumni.

Couples Lead on Campus OU-JLIC programs are typically led by a husbandand-wife team of educators. Through their engaging, enthusiastic, and welcoming perspective, campus couples present a positive face of Judaism, Israel, and religious observance. A married couple’s partnership, and the presence of their Jewish family on campus, also model for students how a family can live a joyous Torah lifestyle.

59

M O R E

T H A N

A N

I N T E R N S H I P

As college students explore the next phase of their lives, debating what they want for their future, their summers usually consist of trying to land the ideal internship.

While planning for the future can be exciting, the process can also be stressful and time-consuming. I used to go to summer camp and travel; now I see my friends only on the weekends, if I’m not too tired. As my time in college passed, I longed for more balance in my life.

The OU-JLIC Summer in Jerusalem (SIJ) program allowed me to do it all: intern during the day, learn in the evenings, and live in a dorm with friends – all while being in Israel. After my mornings interning at the oncology unit of the Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem, we went back to our dorms where we had a chance to unwind for a few hours. Our apartment was right in the middle of the Old City, and walking down the historic streets and living just a few minutes away from the Kotel never ceased to be a novelty.

The Torah learning at night was a highlight of the program. Throughout college, it was difficult for me to find time in my busy schedule for Torah learning. Having set shiurim gave me a chance to reconnect with Torah and learn with peers who felt the same way.

I made lasting friendships (both American and Israeli), attended impactful shiurim, formed post-program learning groups to stay connected throughout the year, and got valuable work experience in my field. I would highly recommend SIJ to anyone who is looking for more than just an internship.

- Gila Samouha, senior at Brooklyn College

60 O U - J L I C

OU-JLIC’s Summer in Jerusalem Program offers a unique opportunity for college students to live, learn and work in Jerusalem during the week, while Shabbatot are spent enjoying shiurim and highlights of Jerusalem’s Old City.

61

O U - J L I C C A M P U S

E I R U V I M L I S T OU-JLIC Has Been Involved in Creating or Maintaining the Eiruv’s Kashrut at:

• Binghamton University

• Queens College

• Brandeis University

• Rutgers University

• Binghamton University

• Brooklyn College

• Santa Monica College

• Brandeis University

• California State University

• UCLA

• Cornell University

• University of Chicago

• Johns Hopkins University

• University of Illinois

• New York University

• University of Maryland

• Princeton University

at Northridge • Columbia University / Barnard College • Cornell University

• University of Massachusetts

• Greater Toronto

• University of Pennsylvania

• IDC Herzliya

• Western University*

• Johns Hopkins University

• Yale University

• New York University • Princeton University

*Part time program

Community members gather to discuss eiruv plans for the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, where OU-JLIC helped create the eiruv.

62 O U - J L I C

• Rutgers University • University of Illinois • University of Maryland • University of Pennsylvania • Yale University

“The OU-JLIC educators are a source of comfort, wisdom, and guidance; they are irreplaceable in every

OU-JLIC Financials

F U N D I N G

S O U R C E S

$3,196,000 OU & program fees

$1,495,000

48%

Donations

22%

way.”

17%

13% $890,000

- OU-JLIC student at Brooklyn College

$1,100,000

Hillel direct support

Hillel in-kind support

Total Funding: $6,681,000

S P E N D I N G

S O U R C E S $104,000 | 2%

$4,820,000

Training

Torah Educators & other personnel

72%

$145,000 | 2% Recruitment & placement

17%

$1,100,000 Office space & support* $422,000 | 6% Programming $91,000 | 1%

Administrative & other

Total Spending: $6,682,000 The financial information here includes the total communal impact of OU programs worldwide. In addition, the OU provides significant support for all of its programs through facilities, management and administrative services, e.g. IT, Finance, HR and Communications. Those expenses are not ref lected in the program’s financials. *Office space and support contributed through Hillel in-kind contribution

63

PUBLICATIONS A Rothm othmA An FoundA An oundAtion Ation PublicA ublicAtion Ation

PASSOVER

2016 • 5776

Matzah 101 NAVIGATING KITCHEN APPLIANCE TECHNOLOGY

REMEMBERING RABBI BELSKY ZT”L

Recipe Substitutes Medicines & Non-Food Items

Consumer Shopping Guide KASHERING PRIMER

A Rothm othmA An FoundA An oundAtion Ation PublicA ublicAtion Ation

,ujca,u ,urha

THE NCSY BENCHER A book oF PRAye RA R And Song A Ivrit Edition

THE

ver

RAV

GUIDE TO

2016 • 5776

IDE TO

UTE

OU

PASSOVER

LIQUOR AND LIQUEUR

FOR PESACH RECIPE

SUBSTITUTIONS

Matzah 101 NAVIGATING KITCHEN APPLIANCE TECHNOLOGY

REMEMBERING RABBI BELSKY ZT”L

Recipe Substitutes Medicines & Non-Food Items

Consumer Shopping Guide KASHERING PRIMER

jewishaction.com The OU first started publishing content on Torah and Jewish thought in the 1940’s.

Today, OU publications are produced and enjoyed by millions of Jews worldwide.

64 O U

P U B L I C AT I O N S

,ujca,u ,urha

THE NCSY BENCHER A book o oF PRAye RA R A And Song Ivrit Edition

O U P U B L I C AT I O N S :

2,500,000+ NCSY Benchers have been published

T H E

H E A RT

J E W I S H

O F

M O D E RN

T H O U G H T

OU Publications has something to offer everyone. Whether it’s the critically acclaimed Jewish Action magazine, the Passover Guide to kosher products or featured content on OU.org, the plethora of publications address the many interests of

180,000+ People read the quarterly Jewish Action magazine

the Jewish community.

A

G L I M P S E

I N T O

O U R

P A S T

60,000+ People receive the OU’s weekly newsletter

91,000+ Passover Guides distributed throughout North America

Since its first edition in the fall of 1985, Jewish Action has remained true to its core values; providing a diversity of ideas and opinions within the spectrum of Orthodox Judaism.

65

C U R R E N T

P U B L I C A T I O N S

Contributing to the Jewish Dialogue For over 33 years, Jewish Action Magazine has been fostering the national conversation in the Orthodox Jewish community through its features and opinion pieces, while winning several major awards. In 2018, the Jewish Action Magazine won the prestigious Simon Rockower Award for the 8th year in a row.

,ujca,u ,urha

THE NCSY BENCHER A book oF PRAyeR And Song Ivrit Edition

THE NCSY BENCHER • Ivrit Edition

A RothmAn FoundAtion PublicAtion

A Known Bencher Around the World THE NCSY BENCHER Ivrit Edition

The NCSY Bencher is a staple in Jewish homes The transliteration in this “Ivrit” edition

of The NCSY Bencher follows the modern Israeli around the world and across the Jewish (Sephardic) pronunciation of Hebrew.

spectrum. It is common to see Jews of various backgrounds seated together, NCSY Bencher in hand, joining their unique voices together in harmony. For those unfamiliar with the liturgy, the NCSY Bencher app offers the opportunity to study and becomeOU more familiar with the songs / NCSY Publications Eleven Broadway, New York, NY 10004 www.ou.org

and text.

ncsy.org/ncsy-bencher-app

OU.ORG, the OU’s Online Community Tens of thousands of people visit the OU.ORG site daily to view the latest articles, check the holiday calendar, and browse the archives for stories and videos on numerous topics of Jewish interest. The site also provides indepth Torah materials and resources to assist those with a wide range of skill levels. ou.org

Passover THE OU GUIDE TO

2018 | 5778

JAFFA CITRUS

OU CERTIFIED IN NORTH AMERICA KASHERING

PRIMER

CONSUMER

SHOPPING GUIDE

A TRIBUTE TO THE RAV

LIQUOR AND LIQUEUR

FOR PESACH RECIPE

SUBSTITUTIONS

The Essential OU Passover Guide The OU Passover Guide has helped support Passover observance since the 1950s, with its index of kosher-certified foods, guide to kashering one’s kitchen for Passover, and FAQs on the intricacies of Passover ritual and halachic requirements.

67

israelfreespirit.com Israel Free Spirit Bar/Bat Mitzvah participants celebrate together at Masada’s beit midrash. Part of what makes these ceremonies unique is that many of these participants, some already in their mid-twenties, never had a Bar/Bat Mitzvah until now.

68 I S R A E L

F R E E

S P I R I T

I S R A E L

F R E E

S P I R I T:

O U R

H O M E L A N D,

O U R

F U T U RE

2,614 Participants inspired on Israel Free Spirit trips in 2018

Israel Free Spirit, the OU’s Birthright Israel program, aims to keep the Jewish community vibrant by connecting our youth to Israel and their Jewish heritage. In addition to a meaningful Birthright Israel trip, Israel Free Spirit offers Jewish learning opportunities after the program in Israel to strengthen the participants’ Jewish commitment and identity.

915 Participants had a Bar/Bat mitzvah while on an Israel Free Spirit trip

364 Post-trip extensions

For most participants, the Israel Free Spirit Birthright trip is their first time visiting the Jewish homeland.

69

P R O G R A M S

Israel Free Spirit – Birthright Israel Trip

Extending Beyond Birthright

Every year, Israel Free Spirit organizes Birthright

Israel Free Spirit offers participants the option of

Israel trips for thousands of college students and

extending their Israel trip to attend classes on

young professionals from diverse backgrounds,

basic Judaism and to tour Israel. Other extension

including customized trips for NCSY alumni,

options include internship opportunities,

participants with special needs, Modern

fellowships, and volunteer programs.

Orthodox applicants, and more.

D I S C O V E R I N G

M Y

H E R I T A G E

Tears streaming down my face

It is clear what we all fight for

Israel, my land

As the hours tick by

Tzfat, my home

You have shown me my people

I know my time here is over The magic has to end

Your stones of mysticism speak more

You have given me peace of mind

than words

Thank you for sharing your beauty

Caesarea, my waters

You’re a gift I’ll truly treasure

Birthright, hamishpacha sheli

I hear the history in your waves

A home for me you’ll always be

You have given me strength

I see the beauty in your theater

Tel Aviv, my place

You have shown me the way

Your charm has gotten me attached

The rush of excitement gets to me

I thank you for pride and for sobriety

Masada, my view

Your spirit amazes me

As the minutes go by

You have given me more than I asked

As I think fondly of back home

I’m reminded of all I have learned

Roots back to my heritage

Cholon, my quiet place

And all I have seen

And a reason for my name

You have given me peace

Jerusalem, my golden city

You have shown me family

Your holiness cannot be denied

The warmth here is truly felt

You’re a home to all the nations

70 I S R A E L

F R E E

S P I R I T

I cannot wait to return to my home, my land, my place.

- Dassy, participant on the July 2018 Israel Free Spirit 12 Step recovery trip

Israel Free Spirit Financials

F U N D I N G

S O U R C E S $390,000 | 5%

$4,028,000

OU, program fees & miscellaneous

Birthright in-kind support

54%

39%

$2,963,000 Birthright direct support

2% | $153,000 Donations & partner sponsorships

Total Funding: $7,534,000

S P E N D I N G

S O U R C E S

$4,028,000

$3,012,000

Travel expense*

Programming

53% 40%

7% $494,000 Administration

Every Israel Free Spirit Birthright trip allows participants to visit sites throughout Israel. From the Golan in the north to the Negev in the south and all of central Israel in between.

Total Spending: $7,534,000 The financial information here includes the total communal impact of OU programs worldwide. In addition, the OU provides significant support for all of its programs through facilities, management and administrative services, e.g. IT, Finance, HR and Communications. Those expenses are not ref lected in the program’s financials. *Travel expenses contributed through Birthright in-kind support

71

bringisraelhome.com While participating in Bring Israel Home, Birthright Israel alumni experience a broad spectrum of Jewish cultural events and activities such as Torah chavrutot and attendance at Israel or Jewish related conferences.

72 B R I N G

I S R A E L

H O M E

B R I N G I S R A E L H O M E :

RE K I N D L I N G O F

T H E

S PA RK

I S R A E L

Bring Israel Home (BIH), the OU’s Birthright Israel follow-up program, transforms the

16,185 Jewish activities completed by Birthright Israel alumni in 2018

Birthright Israel experience by empowering young adults with choices and opportunities to shape their Jewish narrative and find their place in the Jewish community. BIH engages participants by offering online challenges, spirited reunion events, and Israeli leadership trips. BIH is an official follow-up partner

932 Shabbat meals attended or hosted upon students’ return

of Birthright Israel and works with leading organizations including Hillel, Aish HaTorah, URJ Kesher, and Olami.

95% Of Bring Israel Home participants complete 5+ Jewish activities after the trip

49 Applications submitted to Nefesh B’Nefesh for aliyah

Bring Israel Home participants gather for a reunion after not seeing each other for months since their Birthright Israel trip. Reunions are awarded to groups that complete a 100 point challenge by earning points for participating in Jewish activities.

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W H A T

W E

D O

While participating in Bring Israel Home, Birthright Israel alumni experience a broad spectrum of Jewish and cultural events and activities including: Torah chavrutot over the phone, film-based Jewish educational programs, Jewish events, Shabbat meals, and Holiday traditions. Through BIH, young adults can forge a lifetime connection to Israel and Judaism.

Participants are encouraged to connect to their local Jewish communities, strengthen their Jewish identity, increase their love and support for Israel, and follow a path of growth that is meaningful and sustainable.

T U R N I N G

M Y

T R I P

I N T O

A

J O U R N E Y

As my Birthright group approached the Kotel on Friday

later on, I realized I didn’t have tefillin on me so I

night, I was filled with a sense of awe. I felt compelled

traveled to the local synagogue to borrow a pair. I was

to dance. I felt compelled to sing. I felt a happiness I had

astounded by how welcoming the synagogue was to a

never felt before. At that moment, I knew I wanted to

stranger walking in and asking to borrow something

make every Shabbat special.

that belonged to them. I am planning to buy my own pair of tefillin so I can continue to grow in this mitzvah.

“For the first time in my life,

While I was in Israel, I also ordered a handmade tallit.

I put on tefillin.”

the third paragraph of the shema which references the

My tallit has added meaning to my prayers, specifically commandment to wear tzitzit. My Birthright trip left

Since my trip to Israel, I have become inspired to

me with a spark of inspiration, and I hope to continue

deepen my connection to Judaism. For the first time in

incorporating more Jewish observances into my life.

my life, I put on tefillin. (I had to watch a few YouTube videos, but I finally succeeded). On a separate occasion

74 B R I N G

I S R A E L

H O M E

- Sam Daiment

Bring Israel Home Financials

F U N D I N G

S O U R C E S $60,000

$164,000 OU

9%

In-kind donations, program fees & miscellaneous

23%

68% $476,000 Donations, partner sponsorships

Total Funding: $700,000

S P E N D I N G

S O U R C E S $662,000 Programming*

95%

5% $38,000 Development, administration & other

One of the Jewish activities chosen by Bring Israel Home participants is to put on tefillin, with some adopting the practice for the long term.

Total Spending: $700,000

The financial information here includes the total communal impact of OU programs worldwide. In addition, the OU provides significant support for all of its programs through facilities, management and administrative services, e.g. IT, Finance, HR and Communications. Those expenses are not ref lected in the program’s financials. * Programming includes 50K of in-kind expenses

75

ou.org/torah Rabbi Hershel Schachter, Rosh Kollel in RIETS’ Marcos and Adina Katz Kollel and Senior Posek for OU Kosher, discusses how Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, z”tzl, found hashkafa in halacha.

76 O U

TO R A H

O U

T H E

TO R A H :

T O R A H 2 0 1 8

N E W

V O I C E S

O F

TO R A H

Y O R K

S P E A K E R S

OU Torah is committed to providing Torah • Rabbi Yosef Adler • Rabbi Moshe Bamberger • Rabbi Dr. Ari Bergmann • Mrs. Shira Boshnack • Rabbi Eliezer Breitowitz • Rabbi Robert Charnoff • Rabbi Moshe Elefant • Rabbi Noam Friedman • Rabbi Menachem Genack

• Rabbi Elazar Muskin

study opportunities for the broad Jewish

• Rabbi Yaakov Neuburger

community. Using optimal user experience,

• Rebbetzin Lori Palatnik • Rabbi Yosef Zvi Rimon • Rabbi Yonason Sacks • Rabbi Hershel Schachter • Mrs. Atara Segal • Rebbetzin Dr. Adina Shmidman

• Rabbi Efrem Goldberg

• Rabbi Professor Avraham Steinberg, MD

• Mr. Charlie Harary

• Mrs. Racheli Taubes

• Rabbi Moshe Hauer

• Rabbi Steven Weil

• Mrs. Michal Horowitz

• Mrs. Esther Wein

• Rabbi Israel Lashak • Hon. Joseph Lieberman • Rabbi Eli Mansour • Mrs. Sivan Rahav Meir • Rabbi Judah Mischel • Rabbi Dr. Shnayer Leiman

OU Torah offers an online portal and mobile app where one can view an array of shiurim and Torah materials in multiple formats. Designed to benefit those new to learning as well as those with many years of experience, the variety of topics, teachers, and formats helps make Torah accessible to every Jew.

• Rabbi Moshe Weinberger • Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb • Rabbi Gideon Weitzman • Rabbi Dr. Jeremy Wieder • Rabbi Mordechai Willig • Rabbi Yitzchak Yisraeli

Mrs. Esther Wein, a teacher of Jewish women at various levels of learning, addresses the crowd discussing the book of Kohelet and what constitutes a f lourishing life.

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P R O G R A M S

A N D

Uniting for Torah More than 2,000 men and women gathered together to hear from leading scholars at the OU's Torah New York at Citi Field in Queens, NY. Participants chose Torah topics appropriate for individuals of all learning backgrounds, with categories ranging from Tanach, halacha, hashkafah, Israel, and the philosophy of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, z”tzl.

R E S O U R C E S

OU Holidays Offers Timely Insights OU Holidays offers information and inspiration on the chagim, from Pesach and the Yamim Noraim to contemporary holidays such as Yom HaAtzmaut and Yom Yerushalayim.

Whether users are looking for how to prepare an eiruv tavshilin, the history of Yizkor, or chizuk for the Three Weeks, OU Holidays prepares readers with meaningful insights and practical advice.

Weekly Torah Portion Series The Sages decreed that every Jew should review the weekly Torah portion. OU Torah encourages parsha study with text, audio, and video shiurim. Popular series include Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks on Parsha, Rabbi Shalom Rosner on Parsha, Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb on Parsha, Shira Smiles, Rabbi Bernie Fox, Harry Rothenberg, OU Israel’s Torah Tidbits Audio, and many others.

The Shavua Tov Newsletter With OU Torah's Shavua Tov newsletter, subscribers receive content for the upcoming parsha, the following week’s daf yomi, Nach yomi, mishnah yomit, daily halachot, daily mitzvot, and more.

Daily Torah for Your Inbox In order to help facilitate daily Torah study, OU Torah Moishe Bane, OU President, and Rabbi Yosef Zvi Rimon, Founder and Chairman of the Halacha Education Center, review Rabbi Rimon’s new book together at Torah New York.

78 O U

TO R A H

delivers four different series every day directly to thousands of inboxes: The OU’s Nach Yomi, Shnayim Mikra, Mishna Yomit, and Hashoneh Halachos.

F I N D I N G T H R O U G H

M E A N I N G T O R A H

The summer 2014 tragedy of the three Israeli teenage boys will forever remain a dark moment in the Jewish world. I remember where I was when I heard they were missing, and I remember where I was when I heard they were found. No one can put into words the heartbreak and pain, but every Jew felt it. We cried, and we prayed. We said we would never forget. And then, before we knew it, we became involved in our daily routines, and we began to move forward. Life went on.

I didn’t want the boys to remain in my mind as a horrific, sad memory, but rather as something meaningful. As I looked through the lectures at Torah New York, “The Responsa That Led to Finding the Three Kidnapped Boys from Gush Etzion” drew my attention.

Rabbi Rimon recounted the IDF’s search for the boys and how they consulted with halachic authorities on how to best proceed with the extensive search on Shabbat. He described the technicalities of the laws and the importance of saving a life. Why were soldiers allowed to search for the boys on Shabbat, especially if there was a strong feeling they were no longer alive? Moreover, protecting the lives of the Jewish soldiers searching in enemy territory was enough to override the laws of Shabbat. Once the bodies were found, the search could stop, and the soldiers could go home to their families.

Through Rabbi Rimon’s shiur, I realized the extent to which the IDF upholds Jewish law and seeks Torah guidance.

Therein lies the beauty of the Jewish nation. We feel the pain; however, we use G-d’s Torah to guide us. I am grateful that Over 2,000 men and women attended Torah New York, listening to shiurim by over 30 Torah speakers throughout the day.

Torah New York provided this shiur to help give us meaning in light of the tragedy that occurred.

- Robin Rendel

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D A FP

C U R R E N T

Y O M I

R O G R A M S

R E S O U R C E S

F R O M

The study of a daily page of

Rabbi Moshe

Gemara has become a near-

Yomi Shiur

Elefant’s Daf

universal means for Jews of all educational backgrounds to connect with higher levels of learning. The OU’s daf yomi resource section, available on

Rabbi Moshe

desktop and mobile app, is one

Elefant’s Daf

of the most comprehensive on

Sugya Shiur

the web, featuring two popular daf yomi teachers, Rabbi Moshe Elefant and Rabbi Shalom Rosner. Materials include Daf

Rabbi Shalom

B’iyun, Daf in Halacha from the

Rosner’s Daf

Bais HaVaad Halacha Center,

Yomi Shiur

rishonim and acharonim from Shas Illuminated, point-bypoint summaries, quizzes, and more.

Rabbi Shalom Rosner’s Daf B’iyun shiur – Take Your Daf to the Next Level

80 O U

TO R A H

T H E

O U

O U

P A R T N E R S H I P

L E A R N I N G

R E S O U R C E S

Background

Point-by-Point

to the Daily

Summary

Daf (Daf Yomi

(Daf Yomi

Advancement

Advancement

Forum)

Forum)

Daf Digest

Q&A Daf Yomi Review (RealClear Daf)

Daf in Halacha

Quiz (Daf Yomi

(The Bais

Advancement

HaVaad

Forum)

Halacha Center)

Daf HaShavua

Shas

(Rav Pinchas

Illuminated.org

M. Teitz)

(Rishonim and Acharonim on the Daf)

Daf Notes

Talmud Yerushalmi Institute

Insights

Tosfos

into the Daf

(Daf Yomi

(Daf Yomi

Advancement

Advancement

Forum)

Forum)

81

ou.org/accelerator The Young Talent Initiative’s (YTI) founder, Chananya Begun makes his presentation at the Impact Accelerator’s first semi-finalist pitch night.

82 I M P A C T

A C C E L E R ATO R

I M PA C T A C C E L E R ATO R :

2 0 1 8

H A R N E S S I N G S O C I A L

T H E

P O W E R

O F

E N T R E P R E N E U R S H I P

F I N A L I S T S

Grow Torah Yosef Gillers

The Impact Accelerator is an OU program designed to improve the quality of Jewish life by promoting social entrepreneurship, innovation,

Imadi Chana Esther Schechter, Zeldy Oppen, & Goldy Jaroslawicz

and collaboration. By fostering partnerships between Jewish nonprofit entrepreneurs and experienced professional mentors, the Impact Accelerator encourages collaboration to

Nechama Comfort Reva Judas, Dr. Aimee Baron, Ellen Krischer, & Esther Levie

strengthen and inspire our community.

Young Talent Initiative Chananya Begun & Shabtai Heller

Torah Anytime Shimon Kolyakov, Rubin Kolyakov, & Yosef Davis

Yedei Moshe Yael Wedeck & Rivka Ariel

The OU Impact Accelerator provides mentors, professional development programs and early-stage funding for Jewish nonprofit entrepreneurs with the next groundbreaking ideas for service to the Jewish community.

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H E L P I N G F I N D

Y O U T H

T H E I R

P L A C E

Rivka and I have been acquainted for about 25 years. When a mutual friend of ours needed help finding a job for her son a few years ago, Rivka was quick to think of ideas and make the necessary connections to bring it to fruition. We talked then about how necessary it is for this type of service to be available to those who need it. Rivka said that she thought she and I could do something like this together. I laughed and thought “When Exactly?” It didn’t seem like there were enough hours in the day to manage what I was trying to do, let alone add more. Over the next two years, we talked of the ever-growing problem of high school dropouts in our communities, and how hard it is for teens and families to find gainful activity once they had dropped out. We always thought some solution would come. Time passed, and no other existing or new organization stepped up to fill this service gap.

Around January of this year, we heard from a friend about the OU Impact Accelerator seeking nonprofit startups.

On a whim, I mentioned the thought of applying to Rivka regarding our dream project, and she jumped on it. She insisted that we do this as a team as it was all borne out of our conversations together and our professional backgrounds complemented each other well. So we reached out to Jenna Beltser, Director of the Impact Accelerator, and discussed the possibility of applying. Jenna encouraged us to forge ahead, expressing her enthusiasm for our idea and its possibilities. We began to explore existing resources while starting to create plans. We filled out the Accelerator application, did some research on funding possibilities, legal issues, and began to pilot our service to gain proof of concept. Thanks to the Impact Accelerator, this is how our venture began.

- Yael Wedeck, co-founder of Yedei Moshe

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A C C E L E R ATO R

Yedei Moshe, founded by Yael Wedeck, MSW, and Rivka Ariel seeks out and helps businesses hire youth who don’t fit into the traditional school environment.

2 0 1 8

F I N A L I S T S

Grow Torah develops educational Torah garden programs for Jewish schools and communal organizations, incubating emunah, environmental stewardship, compassion for creatures, and tzedakah.

Imadi is an organization that empowers individuals and families facing mental health difficulties by providing support, guidance, and education. The focus of Imadi is to establish functionality in homes that are suffering due to mental illness.

Nechama Comfort supports families who have suffered miscarriage, stillbirth or infant loss. Services include immediate help at the time of the loss and ongoing individual, family and group support. Nechama Comfort also offers training programs for medical personnel, therapists and clergy, and awareness programs for communities and workplaces.

Young Talent Initiative (YTI) aims to maximize real-world potential in creatively inclined youth, a segment of the Jewish population that has been underserved until now.

YTI gives these individuals professional music training and a production platform centered around accessing a deep spiritual connection through their creative musical abilities, as well as a robust mentorship program explicitly designed to bring the best out of the participants.

Torah Anytime records Torah lectures given around the world and uploads the footage to their website for the whole world to watch, free of charge. Since their founding, they have received more and more requests for lectures and Torah videos presented by Jewish speakers and rabbis, with their website growing steadily ever since.

Yedei Moshe seeks out and helps businesses hire teenagers who do not fit into a traditional school environment. The group matches these students and employers and provides personal mentoring and support for both to help facilitate long-term success.

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OU Press offers commentary on an array of Jewish texts and thinkers.

These publications include works from great Jewish figures, including Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, Rabbi Dr. Norman Lamm, Rabbi oupress.org To date, OU Press has published 87 volumes, many of which are in the studies of Chumash, Tanach, and the works of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik.

86 O U

P R E S S

Israel Meir Lau, and Dr. Erica Brown.

O U

P R E S S :

TO R A H TO

I N S I G H T S

C O M E

L I F E

Chumash Mesoras HaRav – Sefer Devarim: The Neuwirth

With Liberty and Justice: The FiftyDay Journey from Egypt to Sinai

Edition

Senator Joe Lieberman reveals how the freedom of Passover

The Chumash Mesoras HaRav series collects and

can be understood only in the context of the law given on

adapts the writings and teachings of Rabbi Joseph

Shavuot. Along the way, he illustrates the impact of Jewish

B. Soloveitchik to form a seamless commentary on

law on American political theory and relates how his

the Chumash. For the first time, the Rav’s thoughts

Jewish worldview influenced his experiences in public life.

on Chumash are presented on the same page as the text which they so brilliantly and eloquently interpret.

Thirteen Steps – Orthodox Judaism in America Comes of Age: Megillat Esther Mesorat HaRav

My Life and Times

In this bestselling edition, Rabbi Soloveitchik’s keen

Rabbi Joseph Karasick, a former President of the OU, was an

psychological insights complement his profound

extraordinary communal leader who played a critical role

theological observations. The Purim narrative takes

in fostering Orthodoxy in the United States. His memoir is

on new meaning when viewed through the lens of the

a fascinating window into a formative era in Jewish history

Rav’s genius.

when Orthodoxy in America was coming of age.

87

teachadvocacy.org Students joined Teach NYS to advocate for free lunches for all in New York City.

88 T E A C H

A D V O C A C Y

N E T W O R K

T E A C H A D V O C A C Y N E T W O R K :

TO DAY ’ S

S T U D E N T S ,

TO M O RRO W ’ S

200% Increase in funding for STEM instructors in New York

A D V O C AT E S

The Teach Advocacy Network aims to secure government financial support for Jewish day schools and yeshivot. Among other things, Teach Advocacy lobbies for equitable government funding, tax credit scholarships, government grants, and education savings accounts to

$700,000,000 Funded for Florida tax credit scholarships

benefit Jewish families and schools. The network advocates on behalf of approximately 90 percent of yeshivah and day school students nationwide.

$40,000,000 Funded for Jewish and nonpublic schools in New Jersey

85% Increase in Pennsylvania’s grant program to place safety officers at schools

More than 200 community leaders, parents, educators, and students traveled to Pennsylvania’s state capital to show appreciation for the record expansion of the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program (EITC), which provides scholarships to students in nonpublic schools.

89

G O A PL R SO

C U R R E N T

IMPACT A ND

A N D

G R A M S

BEF ORE

A F T ER

T E ACH

N YS

I N I T I A T I V E S

Teach NYS Annual Mission to Albany Hundreds of Jewish students, educators, and parents from across New York State gathered at the state capital to advocate for increased and

Funding has increased from $572 million between 2008 and 2012 (before Teach NYS) to $1.5 billion between 2013 and 2018 (since Teach NYS began).

sustainable funding for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education and additional security at nonpublic schools.

The participants met with more than 60 state legislators.

$1.5 Billion

Fighting for Fair Funding In an effort to make Jewish education more affordable, Teach Advocacy works to obtain fair government funding to support critical programs in Jewish day schools and yeshivot.

Tripling Funds for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

$572 Million

New York nonpublic schools may be partially reimbursed for the cost of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) classes. In 2017, Teach NYS was able to secure $5 million in STEM funding for the first time. That amount

2 0 0 8 - 2 012 90 T E A C H

A D V O C A C Y

2013 - 2018 N E T W O R K

increased by 200 percent, to $15 million, for 2018.

Students learn about the importance of advocacy while visiting the capitol building in Harrisburg, PA.

Maximizing Government Funding Teach Advocacy helps schools navigate government programs and applications, meeting with school administrators and boards to ensure they receive the federal, state, and local funds they are entitled to.

Teach PA Harrisburg Rally More than 200 community leaders, parents, educators, and students traveled to Pennsylvania’s state capital to show appreciation for the expansion of the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program (EITC), which provides scholarships to students in nonpublic schools.

91

F R E E

S C H O O L

L U N C H E S

F O R

A L L

At the start of the 2017–2018 school year, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced a new “universal” free lunch program. This initiative provided the city’s 1.5 million K–12 students in public and nonpublic schools with free, nutritious meals regardless of family income.

There was only one problem: the mayor’s plan overlooked eligible Jewish and Muslim children whose religious dietary restrictions did not allow them to benefit from the free lunches.

“These efforts included a rally on the steps of City Hall, full-page ads in major newspapers, and the mobilization of hundreds of Jewish and Muslim parents to lobby City Hall.”

Teach NYS quickly mounted an advocacy campaign to fix this inequity, mobilizing a broad coalition of elected leaders and Jewish and Muslim community advocates. These efforts included a rally on the steps of City Hall, full-page ads in major newspapers, a letter to the city council signed by Teach NYS, the involvement of more than 20 rabbis and imams from across New York City, and the mobilization of hundreds of Jewish and Muslim parents to lobby City Hall.

Teach NYS’s efforts paid off. In June 2018, the city council announced a $1 million pilot program launching in the fall of 2019 that will begin to provide free kosher and halal lunches to nonpublic schools.

92 T E A C H

A D V O C A C Y

N E T W O R K

OU Executive Vice President Allen Fagin leads the crowd in calling for a truly “universal” free lunch program at Teach NYS rally.

93

TE ACH ADVOCACY NE T WORK STATE SECURIT Y HIGHLIGHTS

NEW JERSEY

FLORIDA

$11.3 million

$2 million

For New Jersey’s security allocation at nonpublic schools.

Allocated in security funding for Florida Jewish day schools and yeshivot for the 2018–2019 school year, a 206 percent increase from last year.

PENNSYLVANIA

NEW YORK

$6.3 million

$34.8 million

Budgeted from Pennsylvania’s Office of Safe Schools for its grant program for safety officers at nonpublic schools to $6.3 million for 2018-19, an 85 percent increase over the previous year.

Budgeted for private security guards at New York City’s nonpublic schools and safety equipment in nonpublic schools across New York State.

Students from Hillel Academy in Pittsburgh, PA, were in attendance for the Teach PA rally to show support for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit program (EITC).

94 T E A C H

A D V O C A C Y

N E T W O R K

S C H O O L S I M P A C T E D B Y T E A C H A D V O C A C Y N E T W O R K

TEACH FLORIDA MEMBER

• The Frisch School

• Rabbi Jacob Joseph School Boys

SCHOOLS

• The Hebrew Academy

• Rabbi Jacob Joseph School Girls

• Brauser Maimonides Academy

• The Moriah

• Rambam Mesivta

• David Posnack Jewish Day School

• Torah Academy of Bergen County

• SAR Academy

• Hadar High School for Girls

• Yavneh Academy

• SAR High School

• Hebrew Academy Community

• Yeshiva Bais Hillel

• Shulamith School for Girls

• Yeshivat He’Atid

• Solomon Schechter School of Long

School • Katz Hillel Community Day School

• Yeshivat Noam

• Katz Yeshiva High School

Island • Solomon Schechter School of

• Lubavitch Educational Center

TEACH NEW YORK MEMBER

• Rabbi Alexander S. Gross Hebrew

SCHOOLS

• Solomon Schechter School of Queens

• Adolph Schreiber Hebrew Academy

• Solomon Schechter School of

Academy • Sha’arei Bina Torah Academy for Girls

of Rockland

Manhattan

Westchester

• Barkai Yeshiva

• Staten Island Hebrew Academy

• Temple Beth Emet Day School

• Beit Rabban

• Stella K. Abraham High School for

• Torah Academy of Boca Raton

• Bet Shraga Hebrew Academy of the

• Toras Emes Academy and Yeshiva Toras Chaim • Yeshiva Elementary and Mesivta TEACH NEW JERSEY MEMBER

Capital District

Girls • The Brandeis School

• Bnos Bais Yaakov

• The Ramaz School

• Darchai Menachem

• Torah Academy for Girls

• Davis Renov Stahler Yeshiva High

• Westchester Day School

School for Boys

• Westchester Hebrew High School

SCHOOLS

• Gesher ECC

• Westchester Torah Academy

• Ben Porat Yosef

• Hebrew Academy of Long Beach

• Yeshiva Darchei Torah

• Hillel Yeshiva

• Hebrew Academy of Nassau County

• Yeshiva Har Torah

• Ilan High School

• Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns

• Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island

• Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy

and Rockaway

• Yeshiva Ketana of Manhattan

• Kellman Brown Academy

• IVDU School

• Yeshiva of Central Queens

• Lubavitch on the Palisades

• Jewish Foundation School of Staten

• Yeshiva of Far Rockaway

• Ma’ayanot Yeshiva High School for Girls

Island

• Yeshiva of Flatbush

• Luria Academy of Brooklyn

• Yeshiva of South Shore

• Netivot - The Montessori Yeshiva

• Magen David Yeshivah

• Yeshiva Ohavei Torah

• Politz Day School of Cherry Hill

• Maimonides Hebrew Day School of

• Yeshiva Shaare Torah

• Rabbi Pesach Raymon Yeshiva (RPRY)

the Capital District • Manhattan Day School

• Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School

• Mesivta Ateres Yaakov

• Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jersey

• Midreshet Shalhevet

(RYNJ) • Solomon Schechter Day School of Bergen County

• North Shore Hebrew Academy • Rabbi Arthur Schneier Park East Day School

• Yeshiva University High School for Boys (MTA) • Yeshiva University High School for Girls (Central) • Yeshivat Darche Eres • Zvi Dov Roth Academy of Yeshiva Rambam

95

W H AT ’ S U P C O M I N G

N E X T O U

P R O G R A M S

Resources for National Kosher Food Distribution Programs For years, kosher food pantries have operated throughout the United States, but there has never been a concerted effort to unify them to benefit the needy in our communities. In response to this, the OU has created the Resources for National Kosher Food Distribution Programs.

With this new national network, programs will have easier access to procure seasonal kosher products and Allison Deal, founder of the Resources for National Kosher Food Distribution Programs

to access food distributors at no cost to the recipients.

This effort is maximized by coordinating purchasing practices and prices, locating and securing kosher food in food banks, and working with donors to identify and direct donations. Simultaneously, food waste is reduced

“We must ensure that Jews

as food is redirected to recipient agencies that can accept the donations. The program will also advocate

in need, and the outstanding

for increased kosher food items from government

organizations that provide

Distribution Programs is unique as it is the first time

services to them, have the greatest access to sources of kosher food at the lowest cost possible.”

sources. The Resources for National Kosher Food kosher food programs are unified with the goal to serve the community with efficiency and offer products the community needs.

Allison Deal, founder of Resources for National Kosher Food Distribution Programs, joins the OU after serving as Director of the Kosher Food Network at Met Council.

- Allen Fagin, OU Executive Vice President

Allison has her MBA from Touro College and was previously the Chair of the Agency Advisory Committee at Food Bank for New York City and sat on committees in the NYC Human Resources Administration’s Emergency Food Assistance Program and City Harvest.

96 W H A T ’ S

N E X T

OU Center for Communal Research To better understand the Orthodox Jewish community, the OU has launched its Center for Communal Research.

The Center will focus on how Jews learn to live Jewish lives, the various journeys taken in that process, and how Jewish communal institutions inf luence behavior and sentiment. Established to collect and analyze data from the Jewish community, the Center will implement research and evaluation methods that meet the highest scientific and ethical standards.

Matt Williams, founding director of the OU Center for Communal Research

The Center's first study will be an examination of the economics of Jewish life with a focus on how market forces impact individual and communal behavior. The second will involve a closer look at a growing subset of

“The OU Center for Communal Research will not only provide the OU with the data necessary to effectively carry out its mission, but will also be an important resource to others, ensuring that the needs of the Jewish community are identified and addressed appropriately.”

the Orthodox Jewish community: single women over the age of 30. The Center will also conduct an ongoing internal evaluation of OU programs, publicize existing research from external sources along with internal publications, and convene events focusing on issues facing the Orthodox Jewish community.

Matt Williams, founding Director of the OU Center for Communal Research, joins the OU after serving as the Managing Director of the Berman Jewish Policy Archive.

Matt holds degrees in Art History, English, and Jewish Studies from Yeshiva University, a master’s degree in History and Public Policy, and is currently completing a doctorate in Education and History at Stanford

- Moishe Bane, OU President

University.

97

Ambassador $ 2 5 0 , 0 0 0

&

O V E R

The Avi Chai Foundation Ariela Balk in Honor of the Mendel Balk Yachad Adult Community Center Dr. Shmuel & Evelyn Katz Stephen & Nataly Neuwirth In Memory Of Anne Samson A"H

Guardian THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT

$ 1 0 0 , 0 0 0

O F

Mr. & Mrs. Lior Arussy

O U R

V I TA L

P R O G R A M S ,

I N C L U D I N G :

-

$ 2 4 9 , 9 9 9

Mark (Moishe) & Joanne Bane YACHAD

IFS Birthright Israel

Sherry & Neil Cohen

Inclusion for people with disabilities

Connecting Jewish youth with their heritage

Elliot P. & Deborah Gibber

OU-JLIC

Bring Israel Home

Supporting Jewish life on college campuses

Connecting the Birthright inspiration to everyday life for thousands of trip alumni

NCSY Life-changing teen empowerment and inspiration program

OU Israel Outreach to at-risk youth, support for soldiers and olim

Mr. & Mrs. Jack Feintuch Alan & Barbara Gindi Becky & Avi Katz Mordecai & Monique Katz The Kohelet Foundation The Jewish Federation Of Greater Los Angeles David & Debra Magerman The Jewish Federation Of Metropolitan Chicago Raphael & Rivka Nissel

The Pepa & Rabbi Joseph Karasick Department Of Synagogue & Community Services

OU Advocacy Center

Educational content, programs, consulting for synagogues and communities

Teach Advocacy Network

UJA-Federation Of New York

Fighting for Jewish schools to receive fair government funding

Joyce & Jeremy Wertheimer

OU Torah

Founder

The Women's Initiative Creating and promoting inspirational and educational programming for women OU Impact Accelerator A mentorship program for growth and early-stage funding for Jewish nonprofit entrepreneurs

Promoting Jewish interests in the halls of government

Providing a broad array of online Torah study opportunities OU Press Publishing insightful and compelling works on Jewish texts

Eric & Gale Rothner Ruderman Family Foundation Moris & Lillian Tabacinic

$ 5 0 , 0 0 0

-

$ 9 9 , 9 9 9

Allen & Deanna Alevy Daniel & Razie Benedict Aaron & Marie Blackman Foundation The Cayre Family Falic Family Foundation

Members of the OU Benefactor Circle lead through their philanthropy. We applaud them all - those whose names appear as well as those choosing to remain anonymous - for their commitment. We invite you to join them in making a difference.

To learn more about the OU Benefactor Circle or to become a member, please call Arnold Gerson, Chief Institutional Advancement Officer, at 212.613.8313 or email agerson@ou.org

98 B E N E F A C T O R

C I R C L E

Foundation For Jewish Day Schools, Greater Philadelphia Rabbi Manfred & Liselotte Z"L Gans Chessed Fund J. Samuel Harwit & Manya Harwit-Aviv Charitable Trust Richard Hirsch

Ms. Lorraine Hoffmann A"H

Azi & Rachel Mandel

Morris & Rachel Tabush

Kitty & Anwar Hoory Z"L

Mrs. Fegi Mauer

Michael & Arianne Weinberger

Jewish Federation Of Northern New

Meridian Capital

David & Gila Weinstein

Jersey

Eitan & Debra Milgram

George & Joni White

Etta Brandman Klaristenfeld & Harry Klaristenfeld

Martin & Elizabeth Nachimson

In Memory Of Judy Lef kovits

Robbie & Helene Rothenberg

Mr. David Lichtenstein Chuck & Allegra Mamiye Mayberg Family Foundation The Rabbi Nathanial & Shirley Pollack Memorial Foundation The Shamah Family Larry & Shelly Russak Josh & Allison Zegen

Henry & Mindy Orlinsky Samis Foundation Louis & Stacy Schwartz

$ 1 0 , 0 0 0

Yitzchok & Barbara Lehmann Siegel

June & David Aboksis

Barry & Joy Sklar David & Amy Strachman The Weil Family The Weininger Foundation Inc. Jessica & Lenny Weiss

Lillian Zeides Z"L

The Weiss Family, Cleveland, Ohio

Builder

Esther & Jerry Williams Mr. Jerry & Mrs. Sara Wolasky Masa Yehudi

$ 2 5 , 0 0 0

-

$ 4 9 , 9 9 9

Daniel & Liora Adler

Harry H. Beren Z"L Max & Elana Berlin Brian & Dafna Berman Judi & Jason Berman Jo & Jonah Bruck Crain-Maling Foundation: www.crainmaling.org Gershon & Aviva Distenfeld Drs. Robert & Kay Faguet Greater Miami Jewish Federation Howard Tzvi & Chaya Friedman Shana Glassman Foundation Dr. Ephraim & Rita Greenfield Dr. Elliot & Lillian Hahn Mr. & Mrs. Robert Hartman Lance & Rivkie Hirt Alissa & Shimmie Horn Dr. Allan & Sandy Jacob Jewish Federation Of S. Palm Beach County

-

$ 17, 9 9 9

Alisa Abecassis ADM/ROI Mr. & Mrs. Emanuel Adler Aaron & Tammy Attias Ira & Sheri Balsam Yale & Ann Baron Dr. Moshe & Bryndie Benarroch Mr. & Mrs. Isaac Berman Vanessa & Raymond Chalme The Charles Crane Family Foundation

Visionary

CCS Fundraising Combined Jewish Philanthropies

Mr. Raanan & Dr. Nicole Agus Saby & Rosi Behar

Partner

$ 18 , 0 0 0

-

$ 2 4 , 9 9 9

The Conduit Foundation The Crown Family

Howard & Chaya Balter

Neal & Beth Cutler

Lewis & Lauri Barbanel

Mr. Sheldon J. David

Dennis & Debra Berman

Robert & Michelle Diener

Marcus & Doris Blumkin

Dr. & Mrs. Shlomo Drapkin

Vivian & Daniel Chill

Fred & Suzan Ehrman

Peter & Lori Deutsch

Rina & Rabbi Dov Emerson

Linda & Michael Elman

Drs. Gilat & Yossi Englanoff

Joseph & Bella Essas

Martin & Leora Fineberg

Judith & Allen I. Fagin

Mark & Chava Finkel

Mark & Cheryl Friedman

Arnold & Esther Gerson

Rabbi Sidney & Lisa Glenner

Ralph S. Gindi Foundation

James & Amy A"H Haber

Mary Jo Robinson & Gordon Glaser

Joan & Peter Hoffman

Murray & Batsheva Goldberg

Morris & Sandra Kaplan

Mr. & Mrs. Ernie Goldberger

Jack Albert Kassin

Rabbi Micah & Rivkie Greenland

Dana & Jeffrey Korbman

Abe & Ronit Gutnicki

Jeffrey & Adria Mandel

Mr. & Mrs. David Hartman

Jack A"H & Gitta Nagel

The Hidary Family

Yehuda & Anne Neuberger

Ed & Robyn Hoffman/Hoffman Catering

Rabbi Mark & Linda Karasick

Isabelle & David Novak

Karmela & Jerry Klasner

Marc Penn

Kim & Jonathan Kushner

Allen & Miriam Pfeiffer

Albert Laboz

Henry & Golda Reena Rothman

Jeff & Marci Lef kovits

Stephen & Jessica Samuel

Michael & Andrea Leven Family Foundation

George & Irina Schaeffer Toby Macy Schaffer

Mr. Nate Hyman Jewish Federation In The Heart Of New Jersey Jewish Federation Of St. Louis Dr. & Mrs. Bernard Kaminetsky Rabbi Joseph Karasick

99

David & Roberta Kimmel Robin & Brad Klatt

Patron

Allan & Carolyn Lieberman Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike & Dr. John Loike

Alice & Jacob Klein

Jennifer & Dror Michaelson

Scott & Aviva Krieger Jonah & Fran Kupietzky Joan & Bill Lopatin Vivian & David Luchins Dr. & Mrs. Samuel Lupin Iris & Shalom Maidenbaum David & Michelle Margules Mrs. Ella Meisel Mr. & Mrs. Shalom Menora Stuart & Frances Miller Mr. & Mrs. Asher David & Michelle Milstein

$ 5 , 0 0 0

-

$ 9 , 9 9 9

Ashford Hospitality Michael & Susan Baum Mr. Harvey Bell Dr. & Mrs. Yitzhak & Ellen Berger Mr. & Mrs. Julius Berman Carol Lasek & Howard Bienenfeld Yehuda & Faigie Bienstock Mr. & Mrs. Brian Bilzin Mr. & Mrs. Tomer Bitton Rabbi Glenn & Henni Black

Gila & Adam Milstein

Harvey & Judy Blitz

Stephen & Eve Milstein

Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Brenner

Daniel & Jessica Minkoff

Himan Brown Charitable Trust

Etan & Valerie Mirwis & Family

Pace & Aileen Cooper

Dr. Michael & Liz Muschel

Steve Dorfman

Cal & Janine Nathan

Sari & Shlomo Drazin

Israel & Nechama Polak

Lea & Leon Eisenberg

Daniel & Leyla Posner

Robert Eisenberg

Proskauer Rose LLP

Mrs. Margaret Feder

Ralphs Grocery Company

Rabbi Dave & Chani Felsenthal

Ian & Carol Ratner

Ron & Lisa Rosenbaum Fisher

Mr. Lawrence Rein

Stephen & Roz Flatow

Richmond Jewish Foundation

Joseph & Rachel Fox

Dr. Jay & Marjorie Robinow

Yonatan & Michal Frankel

Matthew Rosenblatt

Sura & Bert Fried

Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Samuels

Dr. Stan & Marla Frohlinger

Genie & Steve Savitsky

Andrew & Yvette Gardner

Menachem & Rena Schnaidman

Lawrence & Judith Garshofsky

Joseph Shamie

Rabbi Ben & Aviva Gonsher

Louis Shamie

Goldie & I. David Gordon

Mr. Baruch Singer

Freda Greenbaum

The Herbert Smilowitz Foundation

Dr. Edwin & Cecile Gromis

William Solomon

Robyn & Shukie Grossman

Rabbi Shlomo & Mindy Spetner

Norma Holzer

Dr. & Mrs. Ethan Spiegler

Dr. David & Barbara Hurwitz

Ronald & Beth Stern

Michael & Rochelle Jacobsen

Talk N Save

The Jacoby Family

Isaac H. Taylor Endowment Fund

Rabbi Ethan & Deborah Katz

Dr. & Mrs. Shimmy Tennenbaum

Drs. David & Michele Klein

Gary & Malka Torgow

Mr. Robert Korda

Joshua & Leslie Wanderer

Joseph & Hana Kornwasser

Stanley & Ellen Wasserman

Marc & Rena Kwestel

Susanne & Michael Wimpf heimer

David & Faye Landes

Drs. Yechiel & Suri Zagelbaum

Joshua & Bryna Landes

Mr. & Mrs. Alan Zekelman

Mrs. Shirley Levy

100 B E N E F A C T O R

C I R C L E

Mr. & Mrs. Raul Moskovitz Sharona & Irwin Nachimson Anna Baum & Barry Novack Terry & Gail Novetsky Aaron & Ahuva Orlofsky Avi & Alissa Ossip The Oved Family People's United Insurance Agency Moshe & Yaffa Popack Larry & Andrea Portal Mr. & Mrs. David Porush Richard & Ora Rabinovich Norman & Lindy Radow William & Deborah Rand Regals Foundation Drs. Craig & Jackie Reiss Sara & Laurence Richards Gail & Binyamin Rieder Malki & J. Philip Rosen Mr. & Mrs. Ira Rosenberg Yitzhok & Tamar Rosenthal Yechiel & Nomi Rotblat Joshua & Alyse Rozenberg Milton & Shirley Sabin Tammi & Bennett Schachter Stanley & Ethel Scher Jerry & Barbara Schreck Mali & Steve Schwartz Mrs. Margie Shabat Jayne Shapiro Dr. Morris & Sharon Silver Michael Smith Jaime & Marilyn Sohacheski Mr. & Mrs. David Sokol Avi & Deena Stein Mr. & Mrs. Abraham J. Stern Dr. David & Dorothy Stoll Aaron & Ariella Strassman Abraham Sultan Matt Teichman Tal Tours Travel Insurance Israel Esther & Baruch Weinstein Tova & Howard Weiser Wilf Family Foundation Jorge & Tammara Woldenberg Fran & David Woolf

B E N E F A C T O R

C I R C L E

E X P E R I E N C E S

Celebrating Torah at Citi Field Mets Stadium Benefactor Circle members came together at a special lounge reception where they engaged with Torah presenters throughout the day.

New York Jerusalem Embassy Celebration Dani Dayan, Consul General of Israel in New York, addresses Benefactor Circle donors and OU Leadership at a reception in his home marking the Embassy move to discuss this momentous time in history.

Yom NCSY Celebration Dinner Benefactor Circle members were invited to a special dinner reception prior to the Yom NCSY concert where they learned more about NCSY Summer’s 2018 success and were addressed by OU Executive Vice President Allen Fagin and Jewish Agency Chairman Isaac Herzog.

101

O U

B O A R D

President Mark (Moishe) Bane Chairman, Board of Directors Howard Tzvi Friedman Vice Chairman, Board of Directors Mordecai D. Katz Chairman, Board of Governors Henry I. Rothman Vice Chairman, Board of Governors Gerald Schreck Senior Vice Presidents Emanuel Adler Dr. Michael Elman Elliot Gibber Barbara Lehmann Siegel (Atlantic Seaboard)*** Dr. Steven Tennenbaum Gary Torgow National Vice Presidents Charles Harary Lorraine Hoffman* Dr. David Luchins Avi Katz Rabbi Moshe Krupka Yehuda Neuberger Isabelle Novak Henry Orlinsky Paul Pinkus (Midwest)*** Esther Williams Michael Wimpf heimer Associate Vice Presidents Mitchel Aeder Etta Brandman Klaristenfeld Azi Mandel Menachem Schnaidman Ari Shabat

M E M B E R S

Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike Treasurer Avery Neumark Secretary Ari Kahn Honorary Chairman, Board of Directors Marcel Weber Honorary Vice Chairmen, Board of Directors Seymour J. Abrams* Morry Weiss Honorary Chairmen, Board of Governors Lee C. Samson Jay L. Schottenstein Honorary Vice Chairmen, Board of Governors Dr. Mark Hasten William Tenenblatt Past Presidents Julius Berman Harvey Blitz Moses I. Feuerstein* Mandell I. Ganchrow, MD Harold M. Jacobs* Rabbi Joseph Karasick Dr. Simcha Katz Professor Sidney Kwestel Martin Nachimson Sheldon Rudoff* Stephen J. Savitsky Honorary Vice Presidents Max Berlin Fred Ehrman Yitzchak Fund Jack Nagel* Joseph Stechler Heshy Wengrow Harvey Wolinetz David Woolf

Directors-at-Large Howard Balter Daniel Butler (Central East)*** Jack Cayre Neil Cohen Dr. Stanley Frohlinger (South Florida)*** David Gerstley Gabe Gross (NCSY National President) Shukie Grossman Dr. Allan Jacob Melanie Kaminetsky Aaron Kinderlehrer Scott Krieger Rena Kwestel Albert Laboz Dr. Murray Leben (New Jersey)*** Vivian Luchins Charles Mamiye Raphy Nissel Naomi Rotblat Joshua Rozenberg Rivkie Samson Toby Macy Schaffer (New England)*** Morris Smith Jacob Weichholz Jerry Wolasky Larry Zeifman (Canada)*** Honorary Governors Rabbi Marvin Hier Malcolm Hoenlein Richard Joel Dr. Alan Kadish Rabbi Dr. Norman Lamm Rabbi Zev Leff Senator Joseph I. Lieberman Rabbi Haskel Lookstein Rabbi Sheftel Neuberger Rabbi Marc Penner

102 O U B O A R D , O U C O M M I T T E E S & C O M M I S S I O N S , S E N I O R S T A F F

Rabbi Fabian Schonfeld Rabbi Berel Wein Board of Governors Susan Alter Leon Achar Hy Arbesfeld Daisy Berman Marvin Bienenfeld Larry Brown Dr. Ben Chouake Daniel Chill Pace Cooper Leon Eisenberg Shirley Feuerstein David Fund Eugene Gluck Stanley Hillelsohn Dr. David Hurwitz Jonah Kupietsky Deborah Laufer Jeffrey Lef kovits Morey Levovitz Nathan Lewin Mrs. Joseph K. Miller Rabbi Michael Miller Irwin Nachimson David Novak Terry Novetsky Steven Orlow Adam Parkoff Dr. Harry Peled Dr. Joshua Penn Allen Pfeiffer Donald Press Barry Ray Dr. Howard Rosenthal Zvi Sand Rabbi Jacob J. Schacter Rabbi Max N. Schreier Marsha Stranzynski Gary Weiss Joyce Werthheimer * Deceased *** Regional Representatives

O U

C O M M I T T E E S

&

C O M M I S S I O N S

Executive Committee

David Gerstley

Moshe Kempinkski

Mark (Moishe) Bane**

Elliot Gibber

Sandy Kestenbaum

Emanuel Adler

Mordecai D. Katz

Professor Meni Koslovsky

Howard Tzvi Friedman

Scott Krieger

Henry Orlinsky

Ari Kahn

Martin Nachimson

Rabbi Emanuel Quint

Avi Katz

Henry Orlinsky

Zvi Sand

Etta Brandman Klaristenfeld

Mordy Soloff

Ben Wiener

Martin Nachimson

David Zimble

Harvey Wolinetz

Avery Neumark

Audit Committee

Pepa & Rabbi Joseph Karasick

Henry Orlinsky

David Gerstley**

Department of Synagogue &

Barbara Lehmann Siegel

Jacob Weichholz

Community Services

Dr. Steven Tennenbaum

David Lawrence

Charles Harary**

Yehuda Neuberger

Gary Torgow

Michael Davis, Vice Chair Investment Committee

David Gerstley, Vice Chair

Nominating and Board Resource

Ari Fuchs**

Emanuel Adler

Committee

Ari Kadish

Pace Cooper

Howard Tzvi Friedman**

Steve Landau

Fred Ehrman

Howard Balter

Yehuda Spindler

Dr. Stanley Frohlinger

Elliot Gibber Allan Jacob Etta Brandman Klaristenfeld Chuck Mamiye Henry Orlinsky Menachem Schnaidman Esther Williams

Legal Services Committee Emanuel Adler** Harvey Blitz Ben Hoffer Ari Kahn Etta Brandman Klaristenfeld Naomi Rotblat

Finance Committee

Henry I. Rothman

Avery Neumark**

Michael Wimpf heimer

Mitch Aeder David Belsky Rose Bernstein Harvey Blitz Howard Tzvi Friedman Ari Fuchs

OU Israel Dr. Michael Elman** Yitzchak Fund Dr. Simcha Heller Stuart Hershkowitz

Eli Genauer Shukie Grossman Ari Kahn Rabbi Joseph Karasick Rena Kwestel Deborah Schick Laufer Dr. Murray Leben Vivian Luchins Harry Peled Toby Macy Schaffer Barbara Lehmann Siegel Evan Silver Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike Jacob Weichholz Esther Williams Michael Wimpf heimer

103

O U

C O M M I T T E E S

&

C O M M I S S I O N S

Synagogue Standards

Vivian Luchins

Kashrut

Michael Wimpf heimer**

Jeff Mandel

Gary Torgow**

Emanuel Adler

Isabelle Novak

Raphael Benaroya

OU Advocacy Center

Harvey Blitz

Miriam Pfeiffer

Avraham Berkowitz

Jerry Wolasky**

Laurie Cooper

Ari Shabat

Max Berlin

Harvey Blitz

Eli Genauer

Joseph Stechler

Julius Berman

Allen Friedman

Dr. Michael Wiederkehr

Harvey Blitz

Howard Tzvi Friedman

Rabbi Joseph Karasick

NCSY – Summer Programs

Yosef Fink

Amir Goldman

Dr. David Luchins

Elizabeth Kurtz**

Rabbi Yosi Heber

Dr. Allan Jacob

Martin Nachimson

Miriam Pfeiffer**

Fred Horowitz

Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike

Henry I. Rothman

Jessica Kornwasser

Eli Levitin

Dr. David Luchins

Barbara Lehmann Siegel

Miriam Lightman

Azi Mandel

Matt Maryles

Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike

Vivian Luchins

Hillel Moerman

Yehuda Neuberger

Rabbi Dr. Tzvi H. Weinreb

Isabelle Novak

Henry Orlinsky

Amanda Nussbaum

NCSY – Behavioral Skills

Israel Free Spirit

Sam Sutton

Dr. Murray Leben**

Birthright / Birthright

Shira Yoshor

Charles Harary

Heshy Wengrow Yachad/ National Jewish Council for Disabilities (NJCD) Mitch Aeder** William Auerbach Lauri Barbanel Elliot Gibber Tziril Goldman Esti Kaminetsky Ira Kellman Dr. Isaac Klein Shalom Klein Aaron Malitzky Miriam Pfeiffer Binyamin Reider Rabbi Eli Rubin Youth/NCSY Avi Katz** Josh Rozenberg, Vice chair Moshe Bennaroch Laura Goldman Freda Greenbaum Elizabeth Kurtz Dr. Murray Leben

Yaron Reich

Jewish Action Gerald Schreck** Binyamin Ehrenkranz David Olivestone Dr. Rosalind Sherman Rabbi Gil Student OU Press Julius Berman** Jonah Kupietzky Stephen Neuwirth Jerry Schreck Rabbi Gil Student Joel Schreiber Financial Resource Development Azi Mandel** Howard Tzvi Friedman Avi Katz Henry Orlinsky Shukie Grossman

Follow-Up Esther Williams**

The Women’s Initiative

Beryl Eckstein

Etta Brandman

Jenny Felder

Klaristenfeld**

Joyce Friedman

Miriam Greenspan

Sharon Frieling

Dr. Rivki Hirt

Chani Klein

Rebecca Katz

Adam Mermelstein

Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike

Henry Orlinsky

Barbara Lehmann Siegel

Michael Sage

Esther Williams

Eytan Weiner Ronnie Wilheim OU-JLIC Morris Smith** Emanuel Adler Srulie Feuerstein Leah Lightman Henry Orlinsky Henry I. Rothman

** Committee/ Commission Chair The Executive Vice President serves as an ex-officio member of all committees and commissions, except the Audit, Nominating, and Board Resource Committees.

The OU President is an

Deborah Schick Laufer

ex-officio member of all

Menachem Schnaidman

committees and commissions,

Barbara Lehmann Siegel

except the Nominating, and

Dr. Shimmy Tennenbaum

Board Resource Committee.

104 O U B O A R D , O U C O M M I T T E E S & C O M M I S S I O N S , S E N I O R S T A F F

S E N I O R

S T A F F

Allen Fagin

Rabbi Menachem Genack

Arnold Gerson

Shlomo Schwartz

Executive Vice President /

OU Kosher Rabbinic

Chief Institutional

Chief Financial Officer

Chief Professional Officer

Administrator /Chief

Advancement Officer

/ Chief Administrative

Executive Officer

Officer

Rabbi Moshe Elefant

Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh

Rabbi Steven Weil

Lenny Bessler

OU Kosher Executive

Weinreb

Senior Managing Director

Chief Human Resources

Rabbinic Coordinator/Chief

Executive Vice President,

Operating Officer

Emeritus

Rabbi Dave Felsenthal

Sam Davidovics, Ph.D.

Gary Magder

Rabbi Micah Greenland

Chief Innovation Officer

Chief Information Officer

Director of Marketing &

International Director of

Communications

NCSY

Officer

Rabbi Adir Posy

Dr. Jeffrey Lichtman

Rabbi Ilan Haber

Rebbetzin Dr. Adina

National Director of Pepa

International Director of

Director of Heshe & Harriet

Shmidman

& Rabbi Joseph Karasick

Yachad

Seif Jewish Learning

Director of Women’s

Initiative on Campus

Initiative

Department of Synagogue & Community Services

Rabbi Simon Posner

Nathan Diament

Maury Litwack

Rabbi Avi Berman

Executive Editor of OU

Executive Director of OU

OU Chief of Staff /

Executive Director of OU

Press

Advocacy Center

Executive Director of Teach

Israel

Advocacy Network

Barbara Flumen

Sharon Darack

Rabbi David Pardo

Nechama Carmel

Director of Public Relations

North American Director of

Director of Bring Israel

Editor in Chief of Jewish

Israel Free Spirit

Home

Action Magazine

Shoshana Polakoff

Jenna Nelson Beltser

Matt Williams

Allison Deal

Director of Facilities

Director of OU Impact

Director of OU Center for

Director of Resources for

Management and Logistics

Accelerator

Communal Research

National Kosher Food Distribution Program

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