JICNY Gala

What this episode covers

This week, Aaron Herman had the opportunity to attend the JICNY Gala. In December 2000 JCINY had our first Shabbat dinner for Australians and South Africans living in the New York. From this event our community has grown to over 8,000 people over the past ten years and 78 couples met through JICNY. With an emphasis on high-quality programming and wide scale affiliation, JICNY is a United Nations of sorts, with people from all over the world gathering on a regular basis for social, cultural and religious events. Our programs include a highly successful weekly Torah class, led by Steve Eisenberg, on the Upper West Side, followed by a unique second class, held in multiple languages which typically include English, Spanish, French and Russian. Other events include lectures, tours of the Lower East Side, picnics, Shabattons and retreats. We host a film club that raises money each month for a different charity. We also plan an annual learning mission to Israel that has enjoyed great success. Our monthly Shabbat dinners feature guest speakers from around the world. We have less formal Shabbat meals and social events throughout the month, as well. Founder, Steve Eisenberg sets hundreds of young professionals up with welcoming places to have the Shabbat meal every year. Over the years founders, Gavin and Jodi Samuels have had over 10,000 people attend meals in their home. We recognize the interest and value of the Jewish international community in New York through all of our successes and for this reason we have created the JICNY Networking Group in order to expand on what we have previously been able to offer in the way of networking. Living in a foreign country that is so diverse and independent, it is comforting to know that there is a place you can go where you will always be welcome; you will be able to explore your heritage and spirituality; and you will be supported by the community that surrounds you.

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