On Sunday, May 25, Chai Lifeline marked a significant milestone with the formal launch of its Sephardic Division, celebrated at the beautiful home of Abe and Vivian Dushey in Deal, NJ. The event brought together over 350 community members, leaders, and supporters to recognize the impact Chai Lifeline has made, and continues to make, within the Sephardic community.
The morning featured heartfelt addresses from community leaders, including Joey Dushey, chair and co-founder of the Sephardic Division, as well as fellow co-founder Jack Braha, and Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. Special honors were presented to Albert and Renee Laboz, recipients of the Community Pillar Award, in recognition of their unwavering dedication to Chai Lifeline’s mission and the families it serves.
“We’ve always been here for Sephardic families, but now we’re doing it with a team and structure that truly reflect the community’s values, culture, and voice,” said Jack Tabbush, Director of the Sephardic Division. “This division was created by the community, for the community, and will continue to grow through its strength, passion, and achdut.”
The event also featured powerful words of chizuk from Rabbi Shlomo Farhi, Rabbi of the Edmond J. Safra Synagogue, and longtime community leader Harry Adjmi, who spoke about the importance of rallying around families facing medical crises.
“Chai Lifeline has always believed that the most effective care is rooted in the community itself,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “By empowering local leaders, professionals, and volunteers, we’re able to deliver support that is not only compassionate but deeply personal and culturally attuned. The Sephardic Division is a shining example of how we build programs with the community, for the community, ensuring that every family feels seen, supported, and never alone.”
The Sephardic Division, under the leadership of Jack Tabbush, provides a full range of Chai Lifeline services, including case management, hospital and home support, crisis intervention, family programming, and Camp Simcha experiences custom-tailored to the specific needs of the Sephardic community. The division’s lay leadership includes Joey Dushey, Jack Braha, Aviran Nachum, and David Tawil.
To learn more about Chai Lifeline’s Sephardic Division or to get involved, visit www.chailifeline.org/sephardic or call 718-475-0002.
