JCC of Mid-Westchester Celebrates Revitalization At Annual Gala

Over 240 guests joined the as it celebrated its revitalization and honored Ophira Cukierman of Scarsdale, 2012 recipient of The JCC Young Leadership Award, at the “Celebrating Our Revitalization” Gala held at Old Oaks Country Club in Purchase on May 22. 

Proceeds from the gala will benefit the JCC’s continuing efforts to provide unique, engaging, top quality programs for all members of the community. 

The evening featured cocktails, buffet dinner and silent auction.  Following these events, gala co-chairs Marcy Vinder and Loren Gilberg, both of Scarsdale, welcomed guests, and Karen Spar Kasner of Scarsdale and Roger Kahn of New Rochelle, Co-Presidents of the JCC Board of Directors reflected on the JCC’s important role in the community as well as the success the agency has had this past year in raising funds, enhancing programming and building bridges and developing new collaborations in the community. 

“The gala was a wonderful success, both financially and socially, and is evidence of the positive change and growth that the JCC has experienced,” said Spar Kasner.  “There was tremendous energy and optimism in the room.  The community is fully committed to supporting the JCC and seeing it thrive for many years to come”. 

The program concluded with the award presentation to Cukierman and her remarks.  Following the program, Susie Essman of Curb Your Enthusiasm entertained guests with her unique comedy.

“We are so happy to honor Ophira at this year’s gala,” said Kahn. “Ophira has dedicated her time, energy and talent to the JCC since 2009.  As president of the JCC Early Childhood Center PTA, she has brought fresh ideas to the agency and has worked tirelessly to create additional opportunities to further engage young children and their families.”

Cukierman also sits on the JCC Board of Directors and was recently named to the UJA-Federation’s Young Trustee Round Table.  Prior to moving to Westchester, she was active with AIPAC and the American Friends of the Israel Philharmonic.

-Contributed by the JCC of Mid-Westchester.