On Wednesday, June 6, the Daniel B. Sobel Friendship House held it’s first annual Gala Dinner to support its programs. The Friendship House was founded in 1994 by Rabbi Levi and Bassie Shemtov and provides support and guidance to individuals and families struggling with addiction, isolation and other life crises. Today it is run by Devorah Pinson, Rabbi Yarden Blumstein and Leslie Wasserman. They achieve success through a welcoming Jewish recovery community that offers friendship, support, and a variety of programs that facilitate lasting success.
Rabbi Yossi Jacobson of New York inspired and entertained the crowd with his keynote address “Healthy Relationships – Healthy Lives”. Chef Cari Catering served a gourmet dinner and guitarist Sean Blackman provided fabulous instrumental wold music.
Local businessman and Green Massage owner Allie Malad surprised the attendees with two free massages for every table. This provided for exciting moments when all had to turn their chairs over to find out if they were the lucky winners.
The dinner was co-chaired by Dr. Eric Zonder and Dr. Robin Lipski, who addressed the crowd and shared their personal experiences with Friendship House. Recovery Rabbi Yarden Blumstein gave a report on the Friendship House activities and invited everyone to participate in their many programs.
To learn more about Friendship House visit http://thefriendshiphouse.org
Photo credits: Pam Salba
