Shalom Task Force brunch is a winner

Hundreds of supporters attended Shalom Task Force’s third annual brunch on May 3 at the Sephardic Temple in Cedarhurst.

Brunch Chairman Moshe Wolfson referred to the once unmentionable topic Shalom Task Force has been addressing for 23 years: domestic violence in the Orthodox community.

The Professional Leadership Award was presented to Sheila Selig. Joyce Austein was recognized with the Dedicated Service Award.   

A riveting video introduced Rabbi Dr. Abraham Twerski, the guest of honor. Rabbi Twerski’s book, “The Shame Borne in Silence,” was instrumental in motivating the Orthodox community to confront the problem of domestic abuse.

In his keynote address, Dr. Twerski recognized the group’s accomplishments in addressing the needs of victims and creating preventative education programs to strengthen Jewish marriages. He emphasized the need to recognize these issues, and the necessity for each person to provide support for victims.

The funds raised through the brunch will enable Shalom Task Force to continue to provide its many services, including a confidential hotline, education and prevention programs for young adults, Shalom Workshops for engaged and marriage couples, and Sarah’s Voice, providing legal services to victims.

Shalom Task Force founder Nechama Wolfson concluded the program by quoting Dr. Twerski: “We have a job to do.”