Chai Five Challenge: Thanks to YOU, We Did It!
By Tami Warshawsky, Director of Development
In just 48 hours, our Schechter community came together in full force! The support poured in -- one donation after another. Together, we surpassed our goal of 360 donations with
576
individual contributions—raising an additional $100,000 from our generous sponsors!
The Chai Five Challenge is Schechter’s annual 48-hour, community-wide fundraising campaign designed to rally support for our school. Our goal is simple: to bring in 360+ gifts of $18 or more. But the real magic happens when we come together as one community to make a lasting difference.
This year’s Chai Five Challenge theme was It All Starts Here. We chose this theme because we believe it reflects the impact of Schechter. It’s where students discover a lifelong passion for learning and strengthen their Jewish identity, and it’s where both students and families form lifelong friendships and bonds that shape their lives.
And it all starts with YOU. Ensuring that Schechter remains strong and vibrant takes our entire Schechter village. And once again, you stepped up!
A huge thank you to Shira Rozgovich, Development and Events Manager, and co-chairs Ann Schneiderman and Tracy Lynn for their leadership and for rallying a team of Chai Five ambassadors to propel this effort forward. And a big shout-out to our incredible students, faculty, staff, and community members who brought their energy and enthusiasm to our videos.
Ann, a proud Schechter alum and parent, shared why she chose to co-chair this year’s Challenge. “Growing up here, I experienced the incredible impact of a strong Jewish education, lasting friendships, and a deep sense of community. Now, as a Schechter parent, I’m watching my own children thrive at Schechter—just like I did. It’s amazing to see them grow, learn, and connect in the same nurturing environment that shaped me. This community is truly special, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of every one of us coming together.”
Tracy also shared her reasons for getting involved. “My family moved to Chicago last year and we were immediately welcomed into Schechter’s warm and vibrant community. In just a short time I have come to realize that Schechter is so much more than a school. It’s where our children are building lifelong friendships, developing a strong Jewish identity, and learning values that will guide them for years to come. And it’s where Eric and I have also developed friendships that we know will be here for us for the rest of our lives. Schechter has quickly become such an important part of our family’s life. That’s why I am so proud to co-chair this year’s Chai Five Campaign.”
From current families (including students!) to alumni, parents of alumni, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends, each and every one of you played a role in making this campaign a success. Whether this was your first time giving or you’ve been a steadfast supporter for years, your generosity speaks volumes about the strength of our community and the deep, lasting impact of a Schechter education.
In November, I will begin my 18th year at Schechter. I’ve watched the school evolve and grow and I am so inspired by what takes place today within our classrooms and beyond. Thanks to the incredible lay and professional leadership and our outstanding tzevet (faculty and staff), our students get to experience the magic of a Schechter education every day.
There is a special feeling when you walk in the door that cannot be described -- you just have to experience it. Watching the Chai Five gifts pour in shows me that our community feels the same way, and I’m so proud of what we can accomplish together.
In November, I will begin my 18th year at Schechter. I’ve watched the school evolve and grow and I am so inspired by what takes place today within our classrooms and beyond. Thanks to the incredible lay and professional leadership and our outstanding tzevet (faculty and staff), our students get to experience the magic of a Schechter education every day.
There is a special feeling when you walk in the door that cannot be described — you just have to experience it. Watching the Chai Five gifts pour in shows me that our community feels the same way, and I’m so proud of what we can accomplish together.
If you haven’t been back at Schechter in a while, now is the time! Come see firsthand the amazing school and vibrant community that you help support. Click here to schedule a visit. We can’t wait to welcome you back!
Thank you for your participation and support!
Did you miss it? NO WORRIES! It is not too late to support the Chai Five Challenge – every donation counts! Visit www.schechter.org/chaifive to participate today.
