BOCA RATON, FL – American Friends of ELEM honored Yechiel Jacobs and Jan Ruben at its annual Florida Luncheon on Sunday in Boca Raton, recognizing their dedication to protecting and empowering at-risk youth in Israel. The heartfelt event brought together community members, philanthropists, and mental health advocates to raise critical support for ELEM’s trauma and outreach services following the October 7th attacks.
The program featured a stirring performance by internationally acclaimed violinist and vocalist Biana Pinchuk, who dedicated her music to Roei Shalev, a survivor of the Nova Music Festival who tragically took his own life after enduring trauma from the October 7th massacre.
Dr. Jerry Cammarata, author of “The Fun Book of Fatherhood” and “The Future of the American Family: An Unprecedented Crisis,”” served as the event’s master of ceremonies. Guests also heard from Shahar Lev Roth, manager of A Real Home, ELEM’s flagship program for young women recovering from sexual violence. Roth, a trauma-informed care expert, spoke about the alarming rise in need among Israeli youth and the healing made possible through American support.
Yechiel Jacobs, whose comedic and pro-Israel videos have captivated millions across social media platforms, was recognized for using his voice to champion truth and resilience. What began as online advocacy has now grown into a global movement, with Jacobs performing live comedy in cities across North America, Latin America, Australia, and Israel, always carrying a message of unity, strength, and Jewish pride.
“What began as online advocacy has grown into something so much bigger. It has turned into live shows, community gatherings, and moments like this, where we come together not just to laugh or be inspired, but to stand for something greater than ourselves. That spirit is exactly what ELEM represents. Over the past year, I’ve learned how they’ve stepped up for young people all across Israel. No camera. No spotlight. Just real care, real action, and real impact,” Yechiel Jacobs said.
Jan Ruben was honored for her decades of service, compassion, and advocacy on behalf of youth in crisis. Her unwavering support for ELEM has helped ensure that thousands of young people in Israel receive the care, guidance, and love they need to thrive.
The luncheon also paid tribute to four beloved ELEM volunteers – Lior Hadad-Atias, Sigal Levy, Yasmin Beera, and Yonatan Richter – killed on October 7th, including those murdered at the Nova Music Festival and at Kibbutz Be’eri. Their memory was honored with a moment of silence and a renewed commitment to continue their work through ELEM’s mission.
“The Boca Raton community has shown time and again that it stands with Israel, not just in words, but through real, tangible support,” said Liora Attias-Hadar, CEO of American Friends of ELEM. “By coming together for this luncheon, South Florida is sending a powerful message to Israeli teens in crisis: you are not alone, and we will be here for you, every step of the way.”
Proceeds from the luncheon directly support ELEM’s life-saving programs, including mobile outreach vans, 24/7 shelters, therapeutic programs for sexual violence survivors, and support for young mothers and homeless teens.
ABOUT AMERICAN FRIENDS OF ELEM:
American Friends of ELEM supports ELEM/Youth in Distress in Israel, the country’s leading nonprofit for at-risk youth. Founded in 1983 by Jewish-American professionals, ELEM serves more than 13,000 young people each year from all sectors of Israeli society through street outreach, shelters, trauma support, and workforce programs. American Friends of ELEM raises vital funds and awareness in the United States to help sustain and grow these life-saving services.
