Over 1,200 New York residents (and others) paid at least $1,200 each — often much more — to attend the annual gala hosted by the Belev Echad organization in support of injured IDF soldiers.
The sold-out event, held at the prestigious and stunning Cipriani Hall in the World Trade Center, was packed with Zionist spirit and devoid of cynicism. It was also live-streamed to Jewish communities outside the city. Entire families — parents, children and grandchildren — gathered in the grand venue.
Belev Echad New York Gala
(Video: Liron Nagler-Cohen)
In just one evening held on Monday, they raised $4.7 million (excluding ticket sales), with countless tears shed over the stories of soldiers who have been recovering since October 7, thanks in no small part to these donations.
The evening’s purpose was clear: an urgent need for funds to support advanced prosthetics, therapy dogs, mental health care and other vital services for hundreds of young men and women wounded physically or emotionally in the intense battles.
A live donation tracker scrolled across the screen as soldiers shared their stories on stage, joined by the organization's founders, Rabbi Uriel and Rebbetzin Shevy Vigler.
"This is not just a gala; it’s a message of unity and unwavering support," Rabbi Vigler said. "These brave soldiers represent the resilience and determination of the Israeli people, and tonight, New Yorkers showed their commitment to standing by them.”
As one donor tearfully remarked, "I wish I were in Israel right now. In fact, I’ve wished to be there since October 8. But this is the least we can do from here."
Among the soldiers who moved the audience was Noam Ben Shlush, 21, a Golani Brigade combat soldier critically wounded on October 7 while fighting dozens of Hamas terrorists who stormed Kibbutz Alumim.
He lost his leg in the fighting but stood on stage with two legs — one being a specialized prosthetic provided through the organization. "The life is beautiful, enjoy it, with a leg, without a leg, it's nonsense," he said, receiving the Courage Award.
Belev Echad New York Gala
(Video: Liron Nagler-Cohen)
Another powerful testimony came from Alisa Ram, 21, who was meant to leave Re’im Base the day after Simchat Torah. Instead, her life changed forever during a heroic battle alongside fellow officers and soldiers on what became known as the Black Saturday.
She recounted surviving against all odds, even after Hamas terrorists executed most of her comrades and attempted to ensure her death as well. "I was sleeping in bed at six-thirty in the morning and suddenly I heard the interception, even before the siren. Quickly, I took the weapon, put on flip-flops, and ran to the shelter,” she recounted.
Belev Echad New York Gala
(Video: Liron Nagler-Cohen)
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Legendary boxer Floyd Mayweather also attended, honoring the IDF soldiers with a $100,000 donation. “The courage and sacrifice of these soldiers are beyond inspiring. I’m honored to stand with them tonight,” he said.
Mayweather, who received a recognition award himself, stressed, "When I stood with Israel, I didn’t do it for recognition. I did what was right. When you choose your side, you stay on your side. This is the side I chose."