It’s often said that Holocaust Survivors are our teachers—but the responsibility of carrying forth their stories belongs to all of us. Each June, communities around the world come together to celebrate Holocaust Survivor Day, a time dedicated not only to remembrance, but to honoring the lives, resilience, and enduring contributions of those who survived.
While International Holocaust Remembrance Day and Yom HaShoah center on mourning the lives lost and the destruction of Jewish communities, Holocaust Survivor Day lifts up Survivors themselves—their courage, their strength, and the wisdom they continue to share. It is a day to ensure that Survivors feel how deeply respected, cherished, and loved they are.
This year, Jewish Family & Children’s Service (JFCS) was proud to participate in Holocaust Survivor Day for the fourth consecutive year, hosting two joyful and meaningful local celebrations in Vineland and Cherry Hill.
On June 16, Survivors gathered in Vineland for a special program featuring musician Avi Wisnia, who shared his grandfather’s powerful documentary, How Saba Kept Singing. Both moving and uplifting, the film prompted reflection, laughter, and heartfelt conversation. Wisnia’s musical performance and thoughtful discussion created a deeply meaningful experience for all in attendance. The program was followed by a festive luncheon that one Survivor warmly described as “like a wedding.” Beyond the meal, the true highlight was the connection as Survivors, volunteers, and staff shared stories, laughter, and companionship. For one attendee, it was their very first Survivor Day celebration—a reminder that these gatherings continue to reach and uplift new members of our community.
The celebration continued on June 18 at the Katz JCC in Cherry Hill, where th social hall exuded warmth, energy, and friendship. The program featured remarks from Jewish Federation CEO Jennifer Dubrow Weiss, JFCS Associate Executive Director Jill Hammel, Cherry Hill Mayor Dave Fleisher, and a meaningful D’var Torah from Rabbi David Englander of Congregation Beth El. Guests enjoyed a festive lunch complete with cake and ice cream, and joined together in song and dance, celebrating their shared history and community. The joy in the room was palpable, as multiple generations came together not only to honor Survivors, but to celebrate life.
Holocaust Survivor Day is a call to action—urging us to recognize Survivors’ bravery, to listen to their stories, and to ensure that their needs are met through meaningful, compassionate care. At JFCS, we are continually inspired by the resilience, faith, and determination of the Survivors we have the privilege of serving. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to walk alongside them. As we honor our Survivors, may we also reaffirm our commitment to carry their stories forward with compassion, dignity, and enduring hope.
We are deeply grateful to the individuals and organizations whose generosity made these celebrations possible: Seed the Dream Foundation; Kavod SHEF; Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany; Jewish Federations of North America Center on Aging, Trauma, and Holocaust Survivor Care; Jewish Community Foundation; Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey; Raymond & Gertrude R. Saltzman Foundation; Jewish Federation of Cumberland, Gloucester & Camden Counties; Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry; and Meredith Berkowitz.
