The incredible philanthropy of Joanne and Jon Gurman was recognized by friends and family from around the world in late November at the Ben Weider Educational Center/Chabad Seminary of Canada’s annual gala, helping the organization once again exceed their fundraising goal.
All funds raised from the Feast of the Nations gala will directly support refugees and underprivileged women to help them continue their education in a safe and warm communal environment in Montreal.
The event was a window into the decades of unwavering humanitarian support by Joanne and Jon Gurman, reflecting two lifetimes dedicated to Tikkun Olam and an impact felt from Montreal to Israel.
“The Jewish community of Montreal is engrained in both our hearts,” said Jon Gurman. “We can see first-hand how the Ben Weider Educational Center lifts up young women both here and in Israel and we are proud to support them.”
Messages recognizing their impact poured in from celebrities such as media personality Judge Jeanine Pirro and NFL legend Rob Gronkowski, while on-hand at the sold-out event were local difference makers and gala co-chairs: Darlene Ambar, Alicia and Brian Bailey, Karen and Dr. Albert Cohen, Ariella and Dr. Walter Gotleib, Demi and Senator Leo Housakos, Mandy and Mayor Jeremy Levi, Stephanie and Neil Oberman as well as Sandy and Allan Rubin. Also ensuring a successful event was a dedicated campaign committee consisting of Aldo Bensadoun, Jack Dym, Barry Fagen, Barry Kotler, Zohar Krivorot, Simon Margel, Jeff Segel, Stephen Shiller, Richard Stern and Beryl Wajsman.
“The Chabad Seminary of Canada and the Chaya Mushka Seminary prioritizes not just any education, but the education of displaced young women whose education has been interrupted,” added Joanne. “When the war broke out in Ukraine, they stepped up when few would and since October 7, they have only increased their efforts to help girls in both Ukraine and Israel. They’ve not only changed lives, but saved lives.”
As for the Gala itself, guests enjoyed the incredible entertainment by world-renowned recording artist Gad Elbaz while enjoying delicious food from Le Marguerite. Guests also heard from Hana Lyubarskaya, who was born and raised in Dnipro, Ukraine and was subsequently forced to flee in March 2022. Hana is an alumna of the Chaya Mushka Seminary and a testament the success of Operation Miriam. Following the completion of her studies at the Seminary, Hana worked in Canada as a kindergarten teacher for six months and will soon be rejoining her family in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Established in 1989, the Ben Weider Educational Center/Chabad Seminary of Canada, under the auspices of the worldwide Chabad movement and the Québec CEGEP system, has been dedicated to the highest caliber of post-secondary education for young Jewish women from the province and beyond. The collegial certificates bestowed are recognized across Canada, the United States and Israel.
