On Sunday evening, June 22, Chaverim of Queens & Great Neck hosted its annual Members Appreciation Barbecue, celebrating the tireless dedication of its volunteers and dispatchers.
As an active member and dispatcher myself, I would normally have attended this beautiful gathering; however, I was unable to be present this year, as I was celebrating the marriage of my cousin, Malkie Schonbrun, to Yitzchak Isaac Schulman. Still, I remain deeply grateful to the volunteers who continue to embody the mission of Chaverim every day – providing boosts, handling car and home lockouts, repairing flat tires, and responding to a wide range of non-medical emergencies with speed, skill, and selflessness.
Members enjoyed a delicious barbecue in a warm, spirited atmosphere. Reb Aaron Cyperstein, President of Chaverim of Queens, welcomed the group and offered heartfelt thanks for the remarkable chesed performed daily by the team. Today, Chaverim of Queens responds to approximately 200–250 calls per month – each one a quiet act of kindness that keeps our community running.
Reb Aaron also took the opportunity to acknowledge the Friedman family, in whose merit Chaverim of Queens was founded l’ilui nishmas Jack Friedman z”l. The Friedmans provided critical financial support at the organization’s inception and have remained generous partners nearly 18 years later.
The event was graciously hosted by the Love brothers – longtime active members of the organization – at their Richmond Hill home, creating a heartfelt and welcoming environment.
Among the many dedicated members in attendance was Avigdor Cyperstein, co-founder of the Queens division, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping Chaverim’s ongoing growth and impact. His vision, together with that of the entire volunteer corps, continues to foster a culture rooted in chesed, responsibility, and achdus.
Chaverim Expands Safety Campaign Amid Heatwave
As part of its ongoing commitment to public safety, Chaverim of Queens & Great Neck has expanded its Look Before You Lock awareness campaign in response to the intense heat wave currently gripping the tristate area. The initiative urges drivers to always check their back seats for sleeping children before exiting a vehicle – even briefly.
This year, the campaign carries heightened urgency. Chaverim units throughout the region have already responded to an unprecedented number of emergency calls involving children accidentally left behind in overheated vehicles. These heartbreaking incidents can be prevented through increased vigilance and awareness.
With temperatures soaring, Chaverim reminds the community: Look before you lock. A moment of caution can save a life.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
