The challenges met with shidduchim are not at all unique to our Chicago community, but the approach towards helping is.
In January, hundreds of people from across the country worked together in a remarkable display of achdus with one cause: to help singles find their basherts.
For its fourth consecutive year, Shas for Shidduchim was a tremendous success, with the entire shas completed in just 24 hours. Donors sponsored dafim as a z’chus for singles to find their zivugim, and lomdim learned on their behalf.
The siyum was viewed by hundreds nationally. Dedicated l’iluy nishmas R’ Nachum Langsner, z”l, the event began with opening remarks from Rabbi Zvi Zimmerman, mashgiach ruchani of Skokie Yeshiva (Hebrew Theological College). R’ Aharon Langsner was then mesayem on behalf of the lomdim. The hadran was met with resounding shouts of “Mazel tov!” from hundreds of homes across America, as mesaymim and their families celebrated this great achievement.
After the siyum was made, HaRav Shmuel Fuerst addressed the viewers with divrei bracha. This was followed by a riveting speech delivered by guest speaker, HaRav Yitzchok Margareten shlita of Cleveland, Manhig Ruchni of Shomer Shabbos and Menahel of Yeshiva Derech HaTorah.
The program concluded with a siyum on mishnayos made by Dr. Yigal Yahav, in memory of his brother, Mr. Shalom Yahav, z”l.
The funds raised from Shas for Shidduchim benefits Chicago Chesed Fund’s many matchmaking, marriage and wedding initiatives which are provided at zero cost for its beneficiaries.
In one year:
$122,818: Shadchanim and dating coaching
11: Number of Shadchanim
$236,095: Wedding expense assistance
322,512: Miles towards dating
175: Bridesmaid gowns available
$33,047: Towards new bridesmaid gowns
$63,410: New housewares for brides