Frum Divorce holds weekend retreat, July 1–3

If you’re newly single and feel like your life is hopelessly off track, the upcoming Road to a Brighter Future retreat is right around the corner to offer support and solace.

Frum Divorce, an organization created to heal the pain felt by children and parents of divorce, is hosting a country get-away July 1–3 at the 5-Star Renaissance Hotel in Westchester. 

The retreat will be attended by a diverse group of serious-minded frum Jews from the New York metropolitan area who are seeking a rejuvenating weekend. Divorcees who attend must have received, or have given, a Get. The weekend is also open to those who have never been married but who would seriously consider marrying a divorcee, and those who are widowed.

“The most difficult time for divorced people is Shabbos and holidays,” said Benny Rogosnitzky, a founder of Frum Divorce and member of the organization’s board.

“If you don’t have your kids on Shabbos, and don’t have an invitation out, it’s so lonely. That’s what led to our hosting our first Shabbos weekend five years ago. It’s a great bonding experience, where everyone leaves full of hope and inspiration.”

The retreat features illuminating speakers David Lieberman, Ph.D; Rabbi Ben Tzion Shafier, and Faye Zakheim, Ph.D; davening led by Yehuda Green and the JTunes; social games, motzei shabbos entertainment and comedy show, and a barbeque on Sunday.

Frum Divorce was brought to life by Rogosnitzky, Fran Shulman, Debbie Rochlin and Naomi Klass Mauer, associate publisher of the Jewish Press who is known for a column that highlights the plight of the agunah.

Divorce rates in the Orthodox community have risen by 20 percent in recent years, which is an increasing problem for the religiously observant.

“This is the first time Frum Divorce is offering special programming for different age groups,” Rogosnitsky noted.

“Our mission is to provide support and inspiration for people who are divorced or widowed, who are in great pain, feel tremendous anger and frustration, and often feel like they are a failure.

“It’s a very hard road to travel. This retreat will be a beautiful getaway where they can enjoy the lovely ambiance of the hotel, camaraderie, lectures, davening, and inspiration from our speakers and the other attendees.”

For more information or a reservation, visit frumdivorce.org or email frumdivorce@gmail.com.