2026
IN SUPPORT OF VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE AND TRAUMA
National President Tova Train Immediate Past National President Lynn Gillman CHW Directors Stephanie Caplan Dorothy Hanson Sandy Herlick Shanna Mittleman Barb Rosenstein Toby Rubin Ariella Schachter Chief Executive Officer Lisa Colt-Kotler
DESIGN BY: MARGIT DAVID
WELCOME For more than a century, CHW has been transforming the lives of at-risk women and children in Canada and Israel through vital healthcare, education and social services. Events like FASHION BLOOMS make this impact possible, raising critical funds for programs that support survivors of violence and trauma as they rebuild their lives with dignity, safety and hope. Thanks to your generosity and unwavering support over the past six years, FASHION BLOOMS has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars, helping CHW create meaningful, lasting change in the lives of thousands of women and children. A special thank you to our FASHION BLOOMS Montreal Honorary Co-Chairs, Yaelle Benhamou, Lisa Farber, and Debra Schwartz, and in Toronto, Francie Klein, Tiana Koffler Boyman, and Ilana Mazur, along with the entire dedicated committee, for their leadership and tireless support to create successful events in both cities this year. We are proud to showcase the talents of Israeli designers Hili Ari, Danit Peleg, Yaron Minkowski, and Margit David. Our thanks to the models, production partners, and volunteers who helped make the shows possible. In Montreal, we are honoured to celebrate the life and legacy of Sigal Weizmann z”l. In Toronto, we are proud to recognize Harry Lebovic with CHW’s highest honour, the Henrietta Szold Humanitarian Award for his outstanding philanthropy and commitment to our community. Proceeds from FASHION BLOOMS will support victims of violence and trauma in Israel and Canada, helping women, children, and families break the cycle of violence, heal from trauma, and start over safely. To our generous lead sponsors including the Azrieli Foundation, Mon Platin Professional, Fiera Capital and an anonymous donor, all sponsors, gift-in-kind supporters, and guests, thank you for making FASHION BLOOMS a huge sold out success again this year. Your support allows CHW to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most. Kol Hakavod,
DESIGN BY: DANIT PELEG
PROGRAM WELCOME RECEPTION: Visit the Market Beauty Bar Schmooze, shop, sip and eat! EVENING BEGINS: Hosted by Gabi Epstein FASHION SHOW: Featuring Israeli fashion designers Hili Ari Danit Peleg 3D Margit David Couture
DESIGN BY: HILI ARI
SPECIAL Sigal Weizmann z“l
CHW Montreal Centre is proud to pay tribute to the late Sigal Bar Weizmann, a deeply committed and devoted volunteer whose impact was felt across our community for many years. Sigal passed away tragically on June 7, 2023. Born in Israel on June 9, 1967, during the Six-Day War, Sigal entered the world while her father, Yoram, was serving in the Israel Defense Forces. In 1980, she immigrated to Montreal with her family. Sigal later pursued evening studies at McGill University, while working full-time at Bank Leumi. In 1991, she met her future husband, Allan Weizmann, and they were married in September 1993. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three beloved daughters—Maya, Danna, and Talia— who were the centre of Sigal’s world. Following Maya’s birth in 1995, Sigal devoted herself fully to her family and home, embracing motherhood with love and dedication. In addition to her unwavering commitment to her family, Sigal gave generously of her time to numerous causes. She was an active volunteer with Beit Halochem, Zera Café, and CHW, and played a meaningful role in the Montreal Jewish community and at the Montreal Torah Centre. A proud Israeli and passionate Zionist, Sigal’s spirit, warmth, and dedication will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
TRIBUTE The Clara Balinsky Award for Volunteerism and Leadership Established in honour of Clara Balinsky, a visionary Canadian Hadassah-WIZO leader, educator and mentor, this award celebrates individuals whose volunteerism, leadership and commitment to community reflect her enduring legacy. Born in Kharkov, Ukraine, Clara immigrated to Montreal as a child and devoted her life to education, leadership and advancing the Canadian values of democracy, human rights and multiculturalism. During her distinguished career with Canadian Hadassah-WIZO as Montreal Centre President and National President, she founded and coordinated its Public Affairs Department and championed Jewish-Christian dialogue and the rights of women and children. Clara believed deeply in the power of education, caring and leadership to overcome ignorance, oppression and prejudice and inspire others to make a difference. It is especially meaningful that the inaugural presentation of this award honours the memory of Sigal Bar Weizmann z”l, whose life embodied that same spirit of generosity and service. Presented posthumously to her family, the Clara Balinsky Award for Volunteerism and Leadership honours Sigal’s memory while celebrating a life lived with purpose, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to others.
IN SUPPORT OF michal sela forum Protection Packages: Provides free “armor” for women under threat of IPV, essentially turning her home into her shelter. Each package is personalized by need and can include 24/7 security services, self-defence lessons, canine protection, and a ceaseand-desist letter from a law firm to the threatening party, and more.
her academy Expanding services to support women escaping violence and prostitution: Her Academy is a revolutionary non-profit organization, working holistically to support highly vulnerable women escaping prostitution and violence in Israel through the provision of vocational training, job placement services, and more. They restore independence and control by providing access to education, skill-building, and a judgment-free learning environment.
eden association Eden Trauma Therapy Center: Provides trauma-focused care for girls and women from the northern Negev and Gaza Envelope. The center offers holistic treatment addressing both the body and mind, with personalized and group therapies, and treatment for complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
IN SUPPORT OF hagal sheli 10 new surf therapy groups: HaGal Sheli empowers and educates youth by harnessing the transformative power of surfing, fostering personal growth, resilience, and success. After October 7, HaGal Sheli’s unique surf therapy program was expanded to serve 2,200 trauma therapy participants. Lighthouse Program – NEW in 2026: By providing education support with leadership guidance for vulnerable youth who are falling through the cracks of overburdened systems, this program offers something essential: consistent, high-quality support that helps youth regain stability and re-engage in positive developmental pathways.
franny’s fund Due to the difficulties of navigating the legal system and managing both the financial and emotional strain of being a victim of domestic abuse, Franny’s Fund was created to help provide legal counsel and therapeutic counselling for at-risk children and families across Canada. Franny’s Fund Montreal can be found at Marie-Vincent Fondation, supporting specialized, cutting-edge treatment for children and families who are victims of sexual violence. MarieVincent Fondation supports specialized services for 400+ children with more than 2,300 professionals working through prevention and training programs.
THANK YOU CELEBRITY RUNWAY SPONSORS
DIAMOND+ SPONSORS
Anonymous
DIAMOND+ AUDIO VISUAL SPONSOR
Mac Show Systems DIAMOND+ SECURITY SPONSOR
THANK YOU DIAMOND SPONSORS
Anonymous The P. Austin Family Foundation Nancy Cohen The Farber Family First Roots Shawna Goodman & Todd Sone Family Foundation
Francie & Dr. Stuart Klein The Koffler Foundation
Carole Herman Zucker Family Fund
GOLD+ SPONSORS
Ilana Mazur Roslyn Joseph Susan & John Rose
THANK YOU gold sponsors Anonymous Anonymous – In memory of Sigal Weizmann Susan Balinsky Tali & Jeff Baum The Koschitzky Family Elayna & Jonathan Latsky The Lieberman Family Sherri Pinsler Lieberman & Philip Lieberman
Shanna Mittleman & Todd Mandel
silver+sponsors Sarah Hutman Naomi Oelbaum Melissa Singer
THANK YOU SILVER sponsors Renna Bassal Tamara & Gary Fine Marcia & Bernie Glick The family of Hala Goldsteinz”l, Leorah Chapter Ilyse, Anna, & Leila Lax
The Jack Weinbaum Family Foundation
BRONZE+ sponsors BRONZE sponsors Lala Berkovic
Cheryl Brownstein & Dr. Rick Schreiber & Family
Debra & Jonathan Chomski
Ilaina, Jaimie & Ashley Goldstein
Joy D. Kaufman
Dora Ilyse, Anna, & Kichler Leila Lax
Susan & Peter Segal
Sondra & Martin Schwartz Doris and Richard Stern & Family
ART PROGRAMMING SPONSORS Estelle Ohayon Art Curator
THANK YOU COPPER SPONSORS All About Words Language Services Susan Bercovitch Stephanie Caplan Michelle Glied Goldstein
Annette Oelbaum
Sarah Granatowicz In loving memory of Sigal z"l Cara, Nicole & Brenda
Julie Spira
IN-KIND SPONSORS
Incredible Printing
CHW Montreal Centre Partner
ONLINE AUCTION featured items Dazzle & Shine: 2 CTW Diamond Earrings Habs Night Out: Two Montreal Canadiens Tickets The Ultimate Beauty and Wellness Package
TO BID: SCAN THE CODE TO SEE ALL ITEMS OR VISIT THE LINK BELOW
CHW.CA/AUCTION
THANK YOU HONORARY CO-CHAIRS Montreal: Yaelle Benhamou Lisa Farber Debra Schwartz
Toronto: Francie Klein Tiana Koffler Boyman Ilana Mazur
COMMITTEE Zoe Ackah Catalin Asody Jessica Yaffe Balinsky Lori Bassal Renna Bassal Yaelle Benhamou Susan Bercovitch Bryna Berman Judy Betel-Goldstein* Randy Brandman Robyn Cohen Lauren Colt Jen Cooper* Alicia Epstein Annette Filler* Shelley Fine Adele Friedman Roger Gingerich Ellie Godfrey Karen Goos Samantha Jeroff Naomi Berkovic Kincler
Elayna Latsky* Leila Lax* Laura Lewko Sherri Pinsler Lieberman Shauna Lindzon Rayna Loeb Jennifer Manley Lisa Pascal Mendel Alona Metzer* Shanna Mittleman Lital Mintz Sheila Nemtin Danielle Perelman Susan Rose* Joelle Sacksner Debra Schwartz Alana Shiveck Lauren Stringer Shiri Tamam Stephanie Taylor Gail Teperman Tova Train *Subcommittee Co-Chairs
DESIGNER BIOS
Based between Montréal and New York, Margit David is a luxury couture label founded by designer Jacqueline Esther Mazor, known for sophisticated, made-to-order eveningwear that blends classic construction with a distinctive modern edge. The brand specializes in one-ofa-kind and custom gowns, with an emphasis on feminine silhouettes, intricate detailing, and exceptional craftsmanship. Deeply personal in its origins, the label was named in honour of Jacqueline’s grandparents, Margit and David Kerber, Holocaust survivors who taught her the art of sewing and inspired the values of perseverance, faith, and creativity that remain at the heart of the brand.
DESIGNER BIOS
By pushing the boundaries of what's possible in 3D printed fashion design production, Danit and her team seek to empower the industry and individuals to express their unique identities and embrace bodies without limitations. Through ongoing research, collaboration, and outreach, Danit Peleg strives to pioneer a more inclusive and sustainable future for the fashion industry, where creativity and innovation intersect to create positive change.
DESIGNER BIOS
Hili Ari, an Israeli fashion designer is known for her feminine silhouettes, refined aesthetic, and modern elegance. Her collections combine luxurious fabrics, thoughtful craftsmanship, and timeless sophistication, creating pieces that are both polished and effortlessly wearable. Hili will feature contemporary collections during CHW FASHION BLOOMS.
ENTERTAINMENT p m e K Noa Noa Kemp is a Montreal-based pop singer-songwriter originally from Belgium. Her music explores ambition, insecurity, and the thoughts we usually keep to ourselves. Noa creates emotionally direct pop for people who want too much and think too much.
NOAKEMP.COM
EVENING EMCEE n i e t s p E i b a G Hailed “Canada’s Queen of Cabaret” by CTV, Gabi is a multi-award winning singer, actor, and recording artist and one of the country's most sought after performers. With a professional career spanning over 20 years, Gabi is best known for playing Fanny Brice in various productions of Funny Girl, and Audrey in the Stratford Festival's production of Little Shop of Horrors.
ARTIST r e t p A Leah Leah Apter was born in 1988. She grew up in Toronto Ontario, but has been greatly inspired by the culture and beautiful lifestyle in France, where her mother grew up. The aesthetic and beauty that the culture from her French roots have deeply influenced the way she dresses, acts, and chooses to live her life. This strongly comes through in her beautiful artistry. Leah has been drawing since she could use her hands and began painting shortly after. She is self taught and has explored many different mediums. She is a student of art and finds inspiration where ever she goes such as the colours she sees in her everyday endeavours, in the beauty of nature and the flowers she selects for her home. Leah continuously finds ways to add beauty and artistry to the world in any way she can. In addition to painting, Leah also loves to explore the world of makeup artistry, using her skills to accentuate the natural beauty of peoples faces. She previously worked as a teacher in this field. Today, Leah loves being a present mother to her three children, while continuing to pursue her crafts. She works with private contacts and businesses, nationally and internationally. On this website you will find her current favourite pieces.
SPOTLIGHT
ARTIST Sarah Rotenberg Sarah Rotenberg is a multidisciplinary contemporary artist whose practice spans painting, sculpture, ceramics, installation, and object design. Her work explores structural harmonics through sentient movement, creating abstract compositions that investigate the relationship between form, element, movement, and space. Before dedicating herself fully to her studio practice, Sarah spent more than two decades building brands and shaping visual experiences through fashion, creative direction, styling, marketing, and movement-based practices. This multidisciplinary foundation continues to inform her understanding of composition, materiality, scale, and the ways people experience objects and environments. Working across materials and scale, Sarah allows each piece to evolve through exploration rather than predetermined outcomes. Guided by curiosity, rhythm and response her practice embraces both precision and spontaneity, resulting in works that are expressive, architecturally aware, and open to individual interpretation. Rotenberg's practice extends beyond the traditional canvas often blurring the boundaries between contemporary art and design.
SPOTLIGHT
SPONSORS
SPONSORS
SPONSORS
Anonymous
SPONSORS
Mac Show Systems
SPONSORS
Anonymous
The P. Austin Family Foundation
SPONSORS
Nancy Cohen
The Farber Family
SPONSORS
First Roots
Shawna Goodman & Todd Sone Family Foundation
SPONSORS
Francie & Dr. Stuart Klein
SPONSORS
The Koffler Foundation
SPONSORS
Carole Herman Zucker Family Fund e c n e r e f f i d join
LOOKING TO MAKE A
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CHW
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WE ARE A MULTI-GENERATIONAL GROUP OF WOMEN PASSIONATE ABOUT SUPPORTING AT-RISK WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN ISRAEL AND CANADA. GET INVOLVED TODAY: JENNIFER@CHW.CA
SPONSORS
Roslyn Joseph
SPONSORS
Ilana Mazur
Susan & John Rose
SPONSORS
Anonymous
Anonymous – In memory of Sigal Weizmann
SPONSORS
Susan Balinsky
Tali & Jeff Baum
SPONSORS
SPONSORS
The Koschitzky Family
Elayna & Jonathan Latsky
SPONSORS
The Lieberman Family
Sherri Pinsler Lieberman & Philip Lieberman
SPONSORS
Shanna Mittleman & Todd Mandel
SPONSORS
CHW EMPOWERS WOMEN AND CHILDREN BY SUPPORTING EDUCATION, HEALTHCARE, AND SOCIAL SERVICES ACROSS ISRAEL AND CANADA.
SPONSORS Sarah Hutman
Naomi Oelbaum
Melissa Singer Renna Bassal
SPONSORS
Tamara & Gary Fine
SPONSORS Marcia & Bernie Glick The family of z”l Hala Goldstein , Leorah Chapter
Ilyse, Anna, & Leila Lax
SPONSORS
The Jack Weinbaum Family Foundation
THANK YOU TO CHW STAFF
Lisa Colt-Kotler, CEO Alanna Elias, Senior Director, Development and Campaigns Sharon Stern, Senior Director, CHW Israel Office Jennifer Ierullo, Director, Donor Relations and Volunteer Engagement & Outreach Rebecca Bowslaugh, Director, Marketing and Communication
KAREN RUSTIA, DIRECTOR, EVENTS AND CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP
Congratulations on all your hard work. WE LOVE YOU - From The Team!
Katia Ousovitch, Manager, Donor Relations and Stewardship Alla Shchepotkina, Database Manager Alina Shpitalnikava, Senior National Event Specialist Sara Miller, Senior Event and Community Engagement Specialist Alex Saslove-Raisbeck, Marketing and Communications Specialist Malka-Deena Lewis, Senior Development Coordinator, Calgary and Western Canada Amanda Aron Chimanovitch, Community Engagement and Event Officer, Western Canada
SUPPORT CHW SUPPORT CHW
Your generosity Your generosity allows allows Canadian Canadian Hadassah-WIZO (CHW) Hadassah-WIZO (CHW) to to support support education, healthcare, education, healthcare, and and social social services, benefiting services, benefiting women women and and children in children in Israel Israel and and in in Canada. Canada. You can You can contribute contribute to to CHW CHW in in many ways: many ways: Support a Support a campaign campaign Monthly giving Monthly giving Cards and Cards and Certificates Certificates Join an Join an existing existing Chapter Chapter Join our Join our Legacy Legacy Circle Circle Fund a Fund a project project in in Israel Israel Participate in Participate in a a mission mission Attend an Attend an event event Start your Start your own own Chapter Chapter Volunteer Volunteer
OUR VISION OUR VISION Photo Credit: Mickey Noam Alon
We strive We strive to to excel excel at at creating creating impact impact through our through our projects projects and and programs programs in in Israel and Israel and Canada. Canada. We We aspire aspire to to be be recognized as recognized as leaders leaders by by our our members members and friends, and friends, donors, donors, partners partners and and our our beneficiaries in beneficiaries in Israel Israel and and Canada. Canada. We strongly We strongly believe believe that that every every human human being deserves being deserves to to achieve achieve their their full full potential, while potential, while living living in in safety safety and and security. Our security. Our support support of of excellence excellence in in education, innovation education, innovation in in research, research, advancement in advancement in healthcare, healthcare, safeguarding of safeguarding of social social services, services, and and investment in investment in our our beneficiaries, beneficiaries, will will create global create global impact, impact, improve improve lives, lives, and provide and provide hope. hope. By providing By providing our our multi-generational multi-generational donors and donors and volunteers volunteers with with aa vehicle vehicle to to effect meaningful effect meaningful change change through through their their philanthropy, CHW philanthropy, CHW enables enables its its supporters to supporters to make make the the world world a a better better place. place.
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CHW (Canadian Hadassah-WIZO) empowers women and children by supporting education, healthcare, and social services across Israel and Canada.
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