YIR: Atlanta Gathers for Holocaust Survivor Day

On June 5, Holocaust survivors, their families, volunteers, and guests gathered to enjoy a day of celebration and commemoration. Approximately 150 people, including 55 survivors and their family members, gathered on Holocaust Survivor Day for lunch and entertainment in City Springs. Holocaust Survivor Day, designated as June 4, is celebrated any day that week, and was created to honor survivors and celebrate their strength and resilience.

The Atlanta event was hosted by the Holocaust Survivor Support Fund (HSSF) of Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, in partnership with Holocaust Support Services of Jewish Family & Career Services (JF&CS). Holocaust Survivor Day was graciously sponsored by Seed the Dream Foundation, Jewish HomeLife, Sue and Gary Saban, and Cherie and Gary Aviv.

“This event is so special to me and to the survivors” said Cherie Aviv, founder, and chair of HSSF at Federation. “It brings our community together in such a meaningful way.”

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The enthusiasm in the air was palpable – survivors and guests entering the space immediately felt the celebration in the air. A survivor noted, “The room, table decorations, flowers and entertainment filled the space with joy, and warmth we felt from all the guests, staff and volunteers was truly magical. “

Aviv emceed the event, with speakers John Paulson, Mayor Pro Tempore of the City of Sandy Springs, Eric Robbins, CEO/President of Jewish Federation, Terri Bonoff, CEO of JF&CS, and a video appearance by Johnathan Ornstein, CEO of the JCC of Krakow.