Washington Sisterhood
The Chabad of Port Washington Sisterhood and Howard Fensterman, managing partner of the law firm of Abrams, Fensterman, Fensterman, Eisman, Formato, Ferrara & Wolf, LLPs, sponsored the “Gift of Hope and Life” reception on Dec. 7, which benefited the Israel Children’s Cancer Foundation (ICCF). Thirty women from all across Long Island came together for wine, cheese and to hear a special performance by Neshama Carlebach, a leading superstar in Jewish entertainment. The evening was a huge success, raising over $2,800.
ICCF helps all children in Israel who are suffering with cancer, the number one killer of children in Israel. It has been reported that one in 300 children living in Israel will be diagnosed with this dreaded disease. The mission of the ICCF is to enhance the level of care for cancer-stricken children. Eighty-seven cents of every dollar raised goes toward the funding of treatment in six major pediatric centers in Israel.
During the event, Orly Calderon of the Port Washington Chabad Sisterhood spoke of the Sisterhood and their mission. The Sisterhood invites all Jewish women, whether members or not, to participate in events and learning. Together, it is their mission to introduce Jewish values into homes of those in the community.
During Carlebach’s performance, she mentioned Harold Blond, president and founder of the ICCF, numerous times. “He is my hero,” she said.
Neshama asked the audience if she had time for one more song, and those in attendance shouted, “ten more!” and “all night.”
Alana Bell Shapiro said, “She was amazing. Loved every second. What an uplifting and spiritual event.”
Melissa Leonard, director of development for the organization, opened the evening with a welcome and introduction to the ICCF stating cancer statistics of children in Israel. She then introduced the chair of the event, Elyse Bell, who spoke passionately about her personal bond with the organization because one of her family members had cancer.
Leonard closed the evening by thanking everyone who came and mentioned how the evening was a success because of the determination and goodwill of its sponsor, Howard Fensterman, well-known local philanthropist.
“Charities that are focused on treatment, as well as on finding cures for life-threatening and debilitating diseases, are of a particular interest to me, especially when the victims are children,” said Fensterman. “The ICCF’s substantial funding for treatment and cures for pediatric cancer should make contributing to this organization particularly appealing to those looking to make a charitable donation to a worthy cause, especially as the holiday’s approach.”
For additional information, call 516-791-1180.
