By a CH Resident

On Sunday night, I attended a Semicha celebration in the Oholei Torah hall. Upstairs, I noticed a group of bochurim standing outside the lunchroom, chatting animatedly with a learning booklet in hand.

Curiosity got the better of me. I wanted to understand what motivated these Orchim—why they came and how they were spending their time here.

What followed was a pleasant and eye-opening conversation. I learned that they were part of the Hachnasas Orchim program of the Vaad Talmidei Hatmimim, dedicated specifically to bochurim from participating yeshivos in Israel and elsewhere.

These boys radiated happiness and a sense of purpose. Between my broken Hebrew and their broken English, I discovered that, far from being unstructured, they were part of a highly organized program.

Firstly, their parents and the hanhala of their yeshiva can track their attendance at Seder and even view their test scores—yes, they take tests while they are here! At registration, in addition to a small fee, they pay a deposit to ensure commitment and participation.

They are treated exceptionally well, with clean and comfortable accommodations and three nutritious meals a day. Curious, I went into the dining room to see for myself. It was impressive: plentiful food, ample seating, and an atmosphere respectable enough that I would have happily joined them for a meal.

The programs they described seemed engaging and inspiring.

I could not help but be impressed by what the Vaad Talmidei Hatmimim has accomplished. They have taken what could have been a chaotic aspect of life for the Orchim and Crown Heights residents and infused it with structure, meaning, and seder.

Instead of dwelling on problems—which certainly need attention—I have chosen to focus on hope in the days leading to Yom Kippur. So many wonderful guests are here for the right purpose: to spend an uplifting month in the Rebbe’s presence, focused on davening, learning, and celebrating the way the Rebbe would expect.

I admire these bochurim and hope that all Orchim can learn from them and follow their example.

The Vaad is currently in the middle of a matching campaign to fund this vital project. I believe that as a community, it is both our zechus and our obligation to support the incredible work they are doing. With more programs like this, Tishrei would look entirely different, and the sacred Lubavitch institutions we hold dear would be treated with the respect they deserve.

Please join me in supporting this cause: www.Charidy.com/VAAD

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