Chicago event raises funds for Hesder student-soldiers

Rabbi Ronsky (seated left) being
introduced by Dr. Yigal Yahav

L to R: Donna Yahav, Natalie Sopinsky,
Elliot Robinson

On September 16th, YBA supporters Donna and Dr. Yigal Yahav opened their home in Skokie to approximately 150 members of the Chicago community in support of Hesder Yeshiva students. 

L to R: Sam Seleski, Don Kates,
Buzzy Schwartz

The cocktail reception featured Rabbi Avichai Ronsky, the former Chief IDF Chaplain (2006-2010) and Rosh Yeshiva of the Hesder yeshiva in Itamar, as well as three religious combat soldiers, Lt. Yossi Levi, Lt. Ami Yunger and Lt. Avi Bluth, who spoke about their personal experiences during this summer's Operation Protective Edge. 

Proceeds from the event went to benefit the Netzach Acheinu Scholarship Fund for helping religious soldiers finance their post-army education. Chicago community leaders and long-time AFYBA supporters Shael Bellows, Bernie Neuman, Yigal Yahav, Elliott Robinson and Shalom Menorah organized the event.

Rabbi Ronsky with Hillel Torah Day School 8th grade class

The following day Rabbi Ronsky and Lt. Yunger visited the Chicago area day schools Arie Crown Hebrew Day School, Hillel Torah Day school and the Skokie Yeshiva.​and spoke with the students and faculty. 

The curious students asked questions such as "Were you scared when you blew up the tunnels?" and "Did you get the letters that we sent the soldiers from camp?"