On Monday, July 22, Hadassah hosted its annual Games Day at the Mansion at Glen Cove. Hadassah is a Jewish women’s organization that aims to form community and fundraise money for various causes.
The Games Day was a collaboration between Hadassah chapters in Nassau, including the Roslyn, Great Neck and SandsPort (Sands Point/Port Washington) chapters. The day began at 10:00 a.m. and ran through the afternoon.
“Over the years we’ve had luncheons,” explained Roslyn Hadassah board member Ellen F Broder. “And now continue with lunch and include games to play.”
As the chapter has expanded, the event has changed from a standard luncheon to a Games Day.
“We get together, chit chat and just enjoy each other. We welcome groups of women who enjoy playing mah-jongg, Scrabble or Canasta.”
At Games Day, attendees were welcomed with a buffet-style continental breakfast. Tables were set up for games like mahjong, canasta and other card games. The event continued into the afternoon with a buffet-style lunch. Dessert, fresh fruit and coffee was served as well.
The fundraiser included raffle prizes, as well as a market for vendors as well. There were a wide range of products at the event, including adult and childrens clothing, jewelry, homewares and accessories. All vendors donated portions of their profits to Hadassah.
Vendors in attendance included Two Friends, Meryl Roesch, Tray Chic, Becca London, Ameliora, Neems, DeCorr & More, Red, A-Z Loungewear and Simply Splendid, many of which are locally owned and operated.
The event was designed to create community and fundraise for Hadassah. Attendees had the opportunity to play card games with their friends, as well as meet new, like-minded members.
Over 160 people attended the event to celebrate the fundraiser’s efforts.
Hadassah is a zionist organization that promotes women’s health and fights antisemitism.
The mission statement on their website explains: “Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, was founded before Israel was a state and before women could vote. We didn’t sit on the sidelines then. And we certainly don’t now.”
It continues: “Together, we’re advancing women’s health, supporting a strong Israel and instilling Jewish values in future generations.”
Now, the organization has over 300,000 members and local chapters across the country.
“[Hadassah supports] different programs in Israel,” said Broder.
One of the most recent programs that Hadassah supported was a new hospital in Israel, built with state-of-the-art technology, as well as welcoming and colorful decor.
“They let anyone in, no matter your beliefs or where you’re from,” said Broder.
The president of Hadassah Nassau, Lynne Gordon, explains: “Hadassah has been providing medical care and building medical infrastructure in Israel since 1913. There are two world-renown medical centers in Jerusalem.”
“Hadassah hospital provides emergency care for all inpatients, medical and psychological,” she continued.
Games Day was made possible by board members Ellen F Broder, Pauline Ferstenberg, Cindy Katz and Sue Leitman from Roslyn; Nancy Greengrass, Roz Meyerson, Fran Tischler, Karen Verola and Estelle Weiss from Great Neck; Dana Baden and Joan Weintraub from Sandport; and president Lynne Gordon.
Additionally, the Hadassah board members would like to thank event staff at The Mansion, including Astrid Yiorkatzi, Meghan McDonough and the entire catering team.
Hadassah’s next “Day of Play,” will be held on Monday, September 9 at the Engineers Country Club. For more information on the event or the organization’s mission, please visit www.hadassah.org.
