Darkness to Light: Omer Wenkert’s Story
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
7:30 PM
placeWestchester

Registration has closed for this event. Questions? Contact Beth Levick at or 914.385.2122. 

After 843 days, all the hostages are finally home. Together, let’s embrace this pivotal moment as a community, and with special guest Omer Wenkert.

Omer endured 505 days as a hostage in Gaza. Now, on his first trip to the United States, Omer will share his extraordinary story of survival, hope, and resilience.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear Omer’s story, honor his courage, and stand united against hate and terror.

UJA is launching The Hostage Tag Project, collecting hostage tags and pins from across our community and transforming them into a public, commemorative art piece. Bring yours on Wednesday evening.

Speaker

Omer Wenkert

On October 7, Omer Wenkert was abducted from the Nova music festival. He was held hostage in Gaza for 505 days, including 197 in isolation. His family learned of his abduction through a chilling video showing him handcuffed in a pickup truck. Freed on February 22, 2025, Omer became a champion of those who were still being held hostage and now shares his story worldwide.

Leadership

Westchester Regional Chair

Laurie Girsky 

Allison Friedland • Adena and Jon Goldberg • Judith and Neil Grand • Elise Kamen and Steve Grossblatt • Adeena and David Rosen • Tamar Tait • Kate and Shai Waisman • Rebecca and Gabe Wasserman

Laurie Girsky 

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contact us

Questions? Get in touch.
Beth Levick

914.385.2122