Today we’d like to introduce you to Yisrael Frankforter
Hi Yisrael, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born in France and emigrated to the USA after high school in order to continue my education. In 1991, the Grand Rabbi of Chabad, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of blessed memory, sent me to Miami to work within a local school. The Grand Rabbi, who remains my primary source of inspiration to this day, always encouraged people to look inside themselves, discover their unique set of skills and passions, and utilize those to better the lives of those around them.
Following this model, upon my arrival in Miami, beyond my role as an educator, I tried to use my unique ability. I placed an ad in the Miami Herald advertising Torah classes in French. Being born in Paris, France, French is my native language. From this simple ad, the seed of what has now become the French Chabad was planted.
Over the years, my passion for education and the French-speaking community has blossomed. We now have a leadership program for young Jewish leaders with over 300 graduates. A large network for the French community has emerged, with dozens of events held in French every week throughout the tri-county area. These programs cater to children, teens, and adults of all ages, and a very active social media presence.
I am also passionate about helping couples in their marriages. We offer marriage counseling and other forms of support, primarily in French, but we strive to assist all those who turn to us. All those run by a team of 6 people and countless volunteers to whom I am so thankful.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wouldn’t describe our growth as smooth; we certainly faced many challenges. However, our growth has been organic, with progress evolving naturally as one step led to another in continuous development.
Over the years, I have identified three types of challenges. Firstly, when I began working with the French community, I had no idea it would grow from a few families to the large and vibrant community we have today. Our initial steps did not envision the full-fledged development that was needed, and I did not position myself for such growth.
The second challenge is the distance. We work with a community that is scattered throughout South Florida. It is difficult to create a sense of community when people live so far from each other. In a strange way, the Zoom culture that emerged from COVID-19 helped unify people despite the physical distance.
Thirdly, like every non-profit, economic uncertainty is a challenge since we depend on contributions for our existence. However, with God’s help, we are here, growing and striving to serve our community.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Our name truly defines us. We are a unique organization in Florida, serving the French-speaking Jewish community in French. Chabad is the most vibrant international Jewish organization, dedicated to making our world a better place for all of humanity, regardless of race, gender, or ethnicity.
We recognize that we cannot be everything to everyone, we understand the importance of having a specific audience as our starting point. However, our mission extends to all those we can help. We believe in empowering everyone to reach and further their God-given potential.
So we are there for the French speaking people for any service they may need. At every stage of their integration in their new environment and at every step of their life’s journey.
I’m most proud of the real sense of community our organization has been able and fortunate to create for all of our expats.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I’ve lived in Miami since 1991, that’s over 30 years. Overtime I’ve seen it transform itself in so many ways. What I like best about our city is its true sense of melting pot. As a Jew, the past few months have been extremely trying. We see images of antisemitic violent attacks in other places in the country. I feel fortunate to live in a place where there is respect for all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://frenchchabad.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frenchchabad/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2xIlkh9owT544zAWXPnbkw
