Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens was filled with emotion, inspiration, and unity as they welcomed six wounded IDF soldiers from the rehabilitation organization Belev Echad. Chabad partnered with Belev Echad to provide the wounded soldiers a trip to Palm Beach Gardens, where they were treated to an exotic car show and a lavish shopping spree courtesy of gift cards donated by the community.
The highlight of the trip was a dinner in which community members were invited to meet the soldiers in person. Guests heard firsthand stories of courage, resilience, and recovery from soldiers whose lives were forever changed in service to Israel. Rabbi Dovid and Rebbetzin Chana Vigler introduced the mission of Belev Echad and shared the work being done at their rehabilitation centers in Israel, including a new facility currently being developed in Jerusalem to support the overwhelming number of wounded soldiers since October 7, 2023.
The evening became deeply personal as three soldiers bravely shared their journeys. Through heartfelt stories — some translated from Hebrew by Rabbi Vigler — the audience was given a rare and moving glimpse into the strength, sacrifice, and spirit of Israel’s heroes.
Community member Alan Newman — who spoke about his recent visits to Israel, including Kibbutz Nir Oz and the Nova Music Festival site — highlighted the life-changing impact of Belev Echad’s canine therapy program, which has already provided over 230 specially trained support dogs to wounded soldiers coping with physical injuries and PTSD.
The evening raised more than $36,000 to sponsor over seven support dogs for wounded IDF soldiers.
