AMIT discusses Israel and the Torah in Cedarhurst

The Torah and strengthening their bond with Israel were part of AMIT’s Yom Iyun — “Day of Learning” — that drew more than 100 women for the 20th annual gathering at the Sephardic Temple in Cedarhurst on Aug. 7.

Keynote speaker Raizi Chechik, the head of school at Manhattan Day School, discussed the evolution of the Torah from its earliest 15th century printings to how its message is distributed in contemporary times. “Books can burned, but the words of the Torah are eternal,” Chechik said. “They are words floating in the air that we bring down in our lives as we are doing today.” 

First held in 2000, it originally took place at the Lido Beach Synagogue. It moved to Cedarhurst in 2014. Rebbetzin Mimi Mehlman, of Woodmere, has chaired the event since its inception. She is married to retired Rabbi David Mehlman. “This event has been for women, by women for the past 20 years,” Mehlman said. “We’ve had 20 years of learning, sharing and growth that’s also taught us the importance of helping others.” 

AMIT is a 95-year-old New York-based nonprofit that seeks to help Israel’s youth recognize their potential and strengthen Israeli society by educating and nurturing children from diverse backgrounds. In 2018, AMIT was named Israel’s No. 1 educational network by the Jewish state’s Education Ministry.

Debbie Moed, AMIT’s president, said the group helps 35,000 children spread across 110 schools in 32 Israeli cities by promoting academics, religious values and Zionist ideals. “Participating in learning together is such a meaningful way to spend our time during the nine days,” Moed said. “It is in essence what AMIT is all about.” The nine days are a religious observance during the first nine days of the Jewish month of Av. Foods such as meat, are forbidden, except on Shabbat. Bathing, unless absolutely necessary, is also prohibited. This year the nine days were Aug. 1 to Aug. 10.

Hewlett resident Anna Wilkowski said that her experience with AMIT helped her mature. She spent eight months at Midreshet AMIT, a school program in Jerusalem. “It was a great experience that allowed me to get to know myself better by helping children who are less privileged than I am,” she said. “I would do it again in a heartbeat.” Mehlman stressed the emphasis that AMIT places on giving to others. “You make a living by what you get,” she said. “But you make a life out of what you give. Helping is a privilege and an opportunity. That is what AMIT does.” 

AMIT's next event is a gala honoring outstanding Long Island leaders on Wednesday, Sept. 25, also at the Sephardic Temple. Go to www.amitchildren.org.