Long Island Youth Raise Funds For IDF Soldier on FIDF Family Fun Day

More than 250 Long Island supporters of the Friends of the IDF (FIDF) gathered at Saddle Rock Park in Great Neck on Monday for a “Family Fun Day” carnival in honor of the brave young men and women who protect the State of Israel and Jews worldwide.

Run by the FIDF Long Island Teen Committee, the Israeli-themed event featured authentic Israeli food, complimentary music by DJ Billy Brown and generously donated workout clothing for sale from 90 Degree by Reflex at a makeshift Israeli “shuk” or outdoor market. Games and raffle prizes were available for kids of all ages. Proceeds from the event will specifically go towards funding an IMPACT! Scholarship, which will put one deserving IDF soldier through four years of college.

“This event showed us that even a small group can make a big impact, said Maya Ben Josef, Carnival Chair. “Organizing the carnival was an important way for teens, who are passionate about helping FIDF, to give back to the state of Israel and its soldiers.” Ben Josef is the daughter of FIDF Long Island Chairman, Ronny Ben Josef, who has led by example in his enormous contributions to the organization.

VIP attendees included Mazi Pilip (District 10 Legislator), Jennifer DeSena (North Hempstead Town Supervisor), Dr. Dan Levy (Mayor of Saddle Rock) and Ronny Ben Josef (National Board member and Long Island Chairman).

“We are grateful to the local community who supported us in our goal of raising funds for an IMPACT! Scholarship for an IDF soldier,” said Pninit Cole, director of the Long Island Chapter, FIDF. “It’s an especially meaningful cause for our local Young Leaders who will soon be pursuing their own college journeys and understand the sacrifices that Israeli teens go through during their service.”