Birthright Israel Celebrates and Honors the Cooperman Family in NJ

The Jewish community gathered in Livingston, NJ on May 5 for a sold-out night of celebration, inspiration, and commitment to the Jewish future. Event co-chairs Evan Ratner and Erin Schonbraun welcomed a room full of passionate supporters, who heard from Birthright Israel Foundation President & CEO Elias Saratovsky, and alumni Samantha Felgoise, David Rak, Briana Halpern and Oran Goldberg — each sharing a deeply personal story of how one trip to Israel changed the course of their lives. The evening featured a powerful fireside conversation with Rabbi Matthew Gewirtz and Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari reflecting on October 7, the hostage crisis, and the enduring bond between Israel and the diaspora. 

The night's most celebrated moment came as we honored The Cooperman Family — Leon & Toby and Jodi & Wayne — for their visionary leadership and philanthropy. In a stunning announcement, the family revealed a $10 million legacy commitment to Birthright Israel Foundation, ensuring 80 young adults will travel to Israel every year for generations to come. Together, the evening raised $2.7 million. We are so grateful to everyone who made it possible.