forest foundation

Out of this world... or at least this country

Matt, Refael and Ibrahim of the Montevideo, Uruguay Jewish community pose here with big smiles on their face as their community welcomes in the newest Moishe House. Forest Foundation exec David Cygielman travelled to Montevideo along with two other South American cities to help them get started on their Apples 'N Honey party last year when Montevideo turned $1,000 into a community party that drew over 1,500 people. This began a beautiful relationship which has now blossomed into the home of American service representative Matthew Hollander and Israeli representatives Roi Elrom, Refael Elon and Zev (just Zev) - the fearless foursome holding down Moishe House Montevideo.

The group has already begun programming in the house with Hebrew lessons, English lessons, Shofar lessons, a dinner with traditional Israeli and Turkish foods and much much more to come. The gang also helped support a hillel program that tried to simulate American Idol called "Operation Hatzlajah" where over 600 people came out to see 8 participants duke it out for a trip to Israel - each participant, backed by a live band, had to sing 3 songs; one in English, one in Spanish and one in Hebrew. The crew is also planning a break-fast for Monday which will double as their housewarming party. So, if you're in the neighborhood feel free to stop by.

Keep an eye out for Moishe Houses in Washington D.C., the East Bay of Northern California, and Abuja, Nigeria as well; which will all be starting in October. The good times just keep on getting gooder.

Happy New Year! Shana Tova!

- Isaac

posted by forest foundation @ 1:52 AM