Cooper family funds gala in memory of Andy Bronfman, z"l

On June 5th, over 600 students and young adults on birthright israel programs took part in a unique gala event planned by Canada Israel Experience (CIE) in memory of Andy Bronfman.

Andy, the late wife of co-birthright founder Charles Bronfman who passed away following a tragic accident just over a year ago, was committed to strengthening Jewish identity and invoking values of leadership, tzedaka, and tikun olam. Bronfman was particularly passionate about and committed to Jewish youth, the arts, education, and, of course, birthright israel.

The event, made possible by a generous gift by Toronto’s Sydney and Florence Cooper, commemorated Andy by celebrating her love of the arts. Hosted by Mini Israel, in addition to viewing the models of the country, participants created art projects at various stations and workshops set up throughout the site. In a letter from the Coopers read by Lorne Klemensberg, director of CIE and emcee of the event, the Coopers welcomed all the birthright participants from Canada and North America.