Wonderful holiday
The Marks Hall of JCH of Benson-hurst hosted a great event under the leadership of General Manager Alex Budnitsky - a joint celebration of Jewish Heritage Month and Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This became a new stage in the formation of strong ties and successful development of our society.
The Jewish, East Asian, and South Asian communities have much in common, especially in terms of their experiences and challenges. Issues of safety, education, housing and work are common to all of us. These communities have made tremendous contributions to New York, the United States and the world, and that should always be a source of pride and celebration.
"Asian Americans and Jewish Americans are not new to America. They helped build our great country and our great city. We look forward to highlighting our rich culture and sharing our values. We hope this new tradition will continue for many years to come." years,” said JCRC-NY CEO Mark Treyger.
“I am extremely proud to represent such a diverse community that is united by shared values and stands against all forms of hate,” added City Council Member Susan Zhuang.
On this day, American Jews and members of the Asian Pacific Islander community came together to demonstrate shared values and history. This unity makes our community stronger than ever before. It is also necessary to acknowledge the enormous contributions made by Marks JCH of Bensonhurst, JCRC-NY and the UJA Federation.
"We are pleased that this event honors our volunteers, who have dedicated themselves to serving people for more than 30 years. Seniors are the fastest growing population in the United States, and we respond to their social and physical needs. Volunteers play a key role in We are honored to partner with JCRC and City Council Member Susan Zhuang as our advocate. Today is a great example of our strong and diverse partnership,” said Alex Budnitsky.
The celebration of Jewish and AAPI heritage recognized Xing Xing Chang, Xia Li Zhen, Neli Salniker, Eduard Vasiliev and Nora Polisar for their contributions to society and culture. But most importantly, Marks JCH of Bensonhurst ensures that everyone feels important and understood, that everyone receives attention and assistance. Lilya Turevskaya, Irina Balagula and other social workers of the center do a tremendous amount of work for single people, doing it with dignity and devotion.
The center's employees perform their duties professionally, with love and respect, creating programs that meet the interests and needs of our citizens. Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the center has provided assistance to refugees, provided medical insurance, organized English language courses and provided assistance in finding a job.
Holocaust survivors are being helped to overcome loneliness. Weekly classes are held in yoga, drawing, computer skills and learning English. Every week, 50-70 people gather in front of their computer screens on the Zoom platform, where poets, artists, art historians, political scientists and other interesting interlocutors come to visit them. This really prolongs the life of older people, especially those who have suffered the horrors of war and other difficult trials.
Director of Social Programs Michael Rockman places great emphasis on all social programs, including the Holocaust Survivors Center.
It is truly a blessing and a true blessing to be under the care of JCH of Bensonhurst.
I would like to express my deep gratitude to the center’s staff for everything they do for our community and for everyone who comes to the center. Many thanks to the sponsors of this event that brings our wonderful and diverse communities together!
Marina Lagunova
