Nearly 3,000 people packed the sold-out Newark Symphony Hall on Nov. 23 for a celebration of ZAKA’s 35 years of lifesaving work.
Hosted by Nachi Gordon of “Meaningful Minute,” the evening launched straight into its star-studded musical line-up. Avraham Fried, Benny Friedman, Shulem Lemmer, Itzik Dadya and Shalsheles lit up the stage with soulful performances accompanied by the Freilach Band. Midway through the night, the crowd erupted when Baruch Levine made a surprise appearance, delivering an emotional performance alongside fellow performers that became one of the event’s defining moments.
More than a concert, the gathering stood as a tribute to ZAKA’s 4,000 volunteers who have responded to tragedy with unwavering faith, compassion and courage. For 35 years, ZAKA has stepped into the most painful moments, preserving life, honoring the dead and upholding the sanctity of humanity.
“Tonight is more than a milestone; it is a living testament to the holy work our volunteers do every day,” said ZAKA CEO Dubi Weissenstern. “Our teams run toward pain so others can find comfort. They bring dignity and light where there is chaos and loss. Our concert honors their courage and the supporters who make it possible.”
The emotional weight of ZAKA’s mission resonated throughout the hall, especially in light of recent years’ tragedies. On Oct. 7, 2023, ZAKA teams were among the first to arrive at the massacre sites in southern Israel, working tirelessly to recover victims with dignity. Since then, volunteers have continued responding across the country as rockets, missiles and drones from Hezbollah, the Houthis and Iran have threatened Israeli communities.
Moshe Rozenberg, ZAKA U.S. executive director, stated that “35 years is not just an anniversary; it is a responsibility.”
He continued, saying that “the need never rests, and neither do our volunteers. Through unity, music and faith, we continue to strengthen the hands of those who show up day and night for Am Yisrael, the Jewish people.”
This year’s event raised critical funds for ZAKA’s 16 units across Israel and around the globe, including rapid medical response; search and rescue; dive teams; international disaster deployments; and culturally sensitive recovery units serving Jewish, Arab, Bedouin and Druze communities.
As the final notes faded and the sold-out crowd streamed out into the night, one feeling lingered above all: unity, purpose and profound gratitude for those who stand ready at every hour.
