Sydney Shliach to Lead Cohort for Community Wellbeing

A course providing shluchim with skills to support the well-being of their community members, including text-based materials, videos, and interactive discussions, will be led by Rabbi Michoel Gourarie, Shliach in Sydney, Australia, is scheduled to begin next week.

Due to popular demand, Chabad On Call at Merkos 302 is hosting its third cohort of the Shluchim Toolbox: Mental Health Insights course. This program is designed to equip newer shluchim with crucial skills to support the mental and emotional well-being of their communities.

The course provides a deep dive into essential topics—such as addiction, grief, trauma, and family dynamics—enabling shluchim to address the growing mental health challenges they encounter. “The course was so helpful because it dealt with actual issues that we encounter as Shluchim,” said Rabbi Benzion Chanowitz from Monticello, NY.

Featuring six comprehensive, flexible online modules, the course allows participants to complete each module over a week, requiring approximately 3-4 hours of study time, which includes text-based materials, videos, and interactive discussions with facilitators. Rabbi Michoel Gourarie, Shliach in Sydney, Australia, will lead the men’s group, offering expert guidance and fostering meaningful discussions.

In addition to the training, participants find value in the connections built within the cohort, creating a long-lasting network of support. “The camaraderie built with fellow cohort members creates a supportive network you can rely on and learn from, both during and after the course,” explained Rabbi Simcha Backman from Glendale, CA. This support system extends beyond the program itself, providing a long-lasting resource for Shluchim navigating sensitive challenges.

“Shluchim around the world are in a unique position of being the global support system of the Jewish people, both physically, spiritually, and emotionally,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, executive director of Merkos 302. “This is a responsibility they don’t take lightly, and many shluchim have benefited from the extra training. The knowledge and awareness gained from it can be lifesaving.”

With mental health challenges impacting one in six people globally, this course empowers shluchim to bring hope and healing to those in need.  

The Shluchos group is already full, but there are still a few spots left in the men’s cohort, which begins on November 13. Register by Friday, November 8, to secure your place. https://www.chabadoncall.com/toolbox.