As a dispatcher, and responding member for Chaverim of Queens and Great Neck, I was proud to join fellow volunteers at this year's annual appreciation dinner. Held this past Wednesday evening, March 27, at Beit Eliyahu of Fresh Meadows, the organization celebrated its 17-year history since being launched with initial support of the Friedman family in everlasting memory of their patriarch, Mr. Jack Friedman z"l. Members were provided new identification cards, car window placards for use during live calls, and brand new raincoats courtesy of a generous donation from MHI Plumbing and General Contractors. Remarks of encouragement and thanks were delivered by NYC Council Member James Gennaro, and Alexa Arechi, Chief of Staff to Assembly Member Andrew Hevesi, as the volunteers enjoyed an elegant dairy spread featuring pastas, pizzas, fries, and milkshakes.
A staple for an appreciation dinner is noticing those amongst the volunteers who went above and beyond in service for the Jewish communities of Queens and Great Neck. Annually, thousands of calls are covered, but these members standout: Elhanan Aronov, Q168, with 175 responses; Nesanel Schechter, Q15, with 174 responses; David Tabin, Q172, with 143 calls covered; Yosef Noy, Q175, responding 125 times and many times late at night; and Yoseph Khaimov, Q173, with 123 responses. We thank the many volunteers who have joined this past year, including some noted above, and encourage those looking to give back to reach out.
The Chaverim hotline is available 24/7 outside of Shabbos and chagim at 718-441-0505.
