Libenu Breaks Ground on Lev Avigayil Respite Center
The rain stopped and the sun came out just in time for Libenu to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Lev Avigayil Respite Center on Sunday, June 14, at 2839 W. Touhy Avenue in West Rogers Park. Community leaders, elected officials, donors, families, volunteers, and supporters gathered to mark the beginning of a project that will transform respite services for children, teens, and young adults with disabilities in our community.
Named in loving memory of Gale Rothner z’l through the extraordinary generosity and vision of Eric Rothner and family, Lev Avigayil will become the permanent home for Libenu’s respite programs, providing families with much-needed support while offering participants opportunities to thrive in a safe and welcoming environment. Designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities and their families, Lev Avigayil will feature dedicated art and music rooms, a sensory room, an enclosed playground, a beautiful sensory garden, a multipurpose room, and much more.
Dr. Shana R. Erenberg, Co-Founder and CEO of Libenu, welcomed attendees and reflected on the years of planning and advocacy that brought the project to fruition. “Lev Avigayil began as a dream inspired by families who needed support and children who deserved a place to thrive,” said Dr. Erenberg. “Today, that dream is becoming a reality.” Rabbi Yaakov Robinson, Rav of Beis Medrash Mikor Hachaim and Menahel of the Midwest Agudah Vaad Harabbanim, offered words of Torah and bracha, “Libenu will be a source of blessings for the individuals who walk through its doors, their families, employees, and all who benefit from its services.”
Alderman Debra Silverstein, State Senator Ram Villivalam and State Representative Kevin Olickal, all of whom helped secure public funds for the project spoke about the importance of Lev Avigayil as a place of hope and opportunity for the community. Finally, Rebecca Amster, a Libenu parent and donor, who along with her husband Jeremy and friends named Kiki’s Corner in honor of their daughter Yakira, spoke from the heart about how much Libenu’s respite program means to her family.
The project is supported in part by a City of Chicago Community Development Grant, reflecting the City’s commitment to strengthening communities and expanding services for individuals with disabilities. Additional thanks to: Rabbi Shlomo Soroka, the Director of Government Affairs of the Agudath Israel of Illinois, for his continued advocacy; Chasi and Eli Davis, whose vision and determination helped bring the idea of respite to fruition; Katy and Josh Silvers who are dedicating the Biruk Shai Silvers Library Corner in memory of their beloved son Biruk, z’l; Miriam and Jon Friedman for their generous support; and the Jewish United Fund (JUF). Thank you as well to the long-time supporters of the respite program Shira and Dudi Berkowitz, Aviva and Mendy Berger, Walder Foundation, and the Illinois Department of Human Services. A special thank you to our many loyal donors and annual sponsors, as well as our dedicated board. You make our work possible.
There are still meaningful naming and giving opportunities available. Please join us in building an enduring legacy of respite, support, and belonging for generations to come. Contact David Ben-Arie for more information.
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State Senator Ram Villivalam, State Representative Kevin Olickal, Alderman Debra Silverstein,
Dr. Shana Erenberg, CEO, Rabbi Yaakov Robinson Beis Medrash Mikor HaChaim
Eric Rothner spoke about his longstanding desire to find the program:
“A home like this, right in the heart of the community, where the families and children it serves live and work”.
Auerbach Architects – Artist Rendition Lev Avigayil
