The stars were shining outside and inside the Illuminarium on Jan. 27 for Havinagala, the JF&CS annual fundraiser for PAL — Atlanta’s only Jewish “Big Brother/Big Sister” program.
Set against a 3-D projected backdrop of the glittering cosmos, astrological illustrations, and falling cherry blossom leaves, Havinagala raised approximately $100,000 for PAL, which is a volunteer program of Jewish Family & Career Services of Atlanta.
The event, which attracted more than 450 young Jewish Atlanta professionals, served a two-fold purpose, organizers said: to raise funds to support PAL and to nurture a sense of philanthropy in the next generation of Atlanta’s Jewish community leaders.
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Pictured are event co-chairs Brooke Berman and Emma Rinzler // Photo by Lu Christian of 1 G L A N C E Photography
“I’m a pediatric nurse, so I know how important it is for these kids to have role models in their lives,” said event co-chair Brooke Berman. “So, for me, I just really connected with this charity.”
Fellow event co-chair, Emma Rinzler, echoed Berman’s sentiments and emphasized unity during a time of rising antisemitism and global conflicts.
“As someone who grew up in the Atlanta Jewish community, I always knew the importance of getting involved at a young age. When I attended Havinagala last year, I thought that it would be the perfect event to jumpstart my involvement. Not only is the event geared towards a younger generation, but it also supports a cause that I’m passionate about,” Rinzler said.
Before the main event officially kicked off, a VIP party was held to recognize the evening’s donors and to celebrate standout PAL volunteer Nate Rubin, who received the Joel Libowsky Big PAL of the Year Award.
“It means the world to receive the award,” Rubin said. “The program provides an incredible platform to help improve children’s and families’ lives, and it…
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