Educational Engagement at Donna Klein Jewish Academy

At Donna Klein Jewish Academy, Amit and Shahar dedicated themselves to fostering meaningful connections through education. They introduced students to the rich tapestry of Israeli culture through creative programs including authentic food tastings, insightful lessons, and hands-on activities.

Sammy Chukran-Lontok, director of Hebrew and Judaic Studies, praised their efforts. “Amit and Shahar helped cultivate a lasting relationship between our community and Israel. Their contributions have gone beyond just sharing information; they have built bridges of understanding and friendship. They gave our students a newfound pride in their Judaism,” said Chukran-Lontok.

Summer Camp Fun

Amit and Shahar spent the summer bringing Israeli culture to the Adolph & Rose Levis JCC Marleen Forkas Summer Camp. Through games, art, music, dance and more, they connected kids from pre-K to high school with Israel.

Director of Camp Operations Mark Rubenstein also had a positive experience with Amit and Shahar. “Shahar and Amit were a great team, and I could not have been more thrilled to work with them,” said Rubenstein. “Campers’ joy would ring out whenever Shahar and Amit created a game, organized a scavenger hunt, or built and decorated bricks for their Western Wall, all while listening to Israeli music. It was a heartwarming sight to see campers waving Israeli flags and proudly wearing the crafts they made with Shahar and Amit.”

Extensive Community Engagement

Every week, our Shinshinim were seen all around town! Local Jewish day schools, synagogues, congregational schools, youth groups, senior centers, and more were all touched in meaningful ways during this most difficult year. Amit and Shahar reminded us of the wonders and beauty of Israel and the importance of a strong connection between our SPBC community and our family within Israel.

While on the Federation campus they were involved in a variety of events from celebrating literacy with PJ Library® in South Palm Beach County to participating in commemorative events recognizing Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut. They became part of the fabric of our Jewish Community.

The Impact on Families and Personal Connections

Arielle Elkoby, who hosted Shahar in her home, reflected on Shahar’s significant influence. “Shahar lived with us for a whole year. This made such a huge impact not only on our household and our family, but also in our group of friends and everybody around us,” said Elkoby.

Shahar became like an older sister to Elkoby’s children and integrated Israeli culture into their daily lives—from speaking Hebrew to sharing Israeli traditions—she enriched their family’s experience and created lasting bonds.

“It became normal to speak Hebrew at home, to sing and dance in Israeli style. The kids gained a sister, a sibling. She really was the oldest kid in this house,” said Elkoby.

A Lasting Legacy

As Amit and Shahar return to Israel after being part of our community for a full year, they take back with them the spirit of Boca Raton and the strong connections they made.

One of Amit’s favorite memories from his time in Boca Raton was witnessing how the community came alive during Chanukah. The festive celebration brought everyone together, offering him a unique glimpse into Jewish life outside of Israel. The uplifting atmosphere and strong sense of community during these festivities left a lasting impression on him.

“This experience has changed my life in ways I never imagined. The support and love from the Boca Raton community have been overwhelming, and I am proud to carry the spirit of its people back to Israel,” he said.

A highlight for Shahar was giving a speech at Congregation B’nai Israel about her friend, an IDF soldier who died during the war. Sharing her friend’s story ensured his legacy would live on—something that was deeply meaningful to her.

“Being able to share this story and connect with the community during such a challenging time was incredibly powerful. The support from Boca Raton has been amazing, and I am inspired to continue making an impact,” she said.

Allison O’Mara, one of Amit’s host moms said it best, “By hosting Amit, his family has become our family, and our love and connection to Israel has only strengthened with this new bond.”

We are ready to welcome two new Shinshinim to South Palm Beach County for the coming year! If you are interested in becoming a host family, please visit www.jewishboca.org/shinshinim to learn more about this incredible experience and complete the host family application.

Amit and Shahar served as Emissaries from August 2023 to August 2024