Westchester County, NY — Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS) proudly announces its 2026 Gala, to be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, NY at 6:30pm. The evening will celebrate visionary leaders and partners whose dedication and innovation have profoundly strengthened the Westchester community.
At this year’s Gala, WJCS will honor:
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Marion Morgenthal, co-founder of POINT (Pursuing Our INdependence Together), an independent living community in White Plains that empowers young adults with developmental disabilities to live with dignity, purpose, and increasing independence.
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Joe Torre Safe At Home, WJCS’s partner in operating Margaret’s Place, a nationally recognized school-based initiative dedicated to breaking the cycle of domestic violence and abuse through education, counseling, and empowerment.
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Yael Friedland, recipient of the Young Leadership Award and founder of Share Shabbat, a WJCS program that connects volunteers with Holocaust survivors across Westchester to deliver monthly Shabbat meals, foster meaningful connections, and preserve powerful personal histories.
“Our 2026 Gala honorees have made a remarkable impact on individuals and families facing complex and often overwhelming life challenges,” said Seth Diamond, CEO of WJCS. “Through vision, compassion, and extraordinary commitment, they have developed innovative programs that not only meet urgent needs, but transform lives. We are deeply honored to celebrate their leadership and grateful that they are part of the WJCS community.”
The 2026 Gala will bring together community leaders, philanthropists, and advocates to support WJCS’s comprehensive programs serving children, adults, seniors, and families throughout Westchester County. Proceeds from the event will sustain critical services in mental health, trauma recovery, disability support, senior care, and community-based initiatives that provide hope and stability to thousands each year.
The WJCS April 15th Gala will also be debuting a special photography exhibit featuring Holocaust survivors from Westchester County. The portraits were taken by Armonk resident Yael Friedland.
“For many years, I have had the privilege of working closely with these extraordinary individuals through the WJCS Share Shabbat program, which I am proud to have founded as a way to bring Holocaust survivors and community members together in warmth, connection, and dignity,” said Friedland. “Through these and other WJCS gatherings for Westchester Holocaust survivors, I have come to know not only their histories, but their humor, resilience, wisdom, and deep love of family and tradition. This exhibit grew organically from those relationships. Over time, I felt compelled to document the faces and stories of the people who have entrusted us with their memories. What began as a personal passion project evolved into “Survivors Among Us,” a tribute to the strength and enduring spirit of Holocaust survivors.
