Strivright Celebrates 25 Years Of Miracles, Milestones, And Memories
On the evening of May 14, 2025, over 500 guests gathered at the stunning El Caribe Country Club for a night that was nothing short of magical. The Strivright 25-Year Gala was more than an event—it was a celebration of dreams fulfilled, voices found, and a community united in purpose to ensuring that every child can be the best they can be.
This silver anniversary marked a bold declaration: amazing things happen when expertise, compassion, and love come together—the impossible becomes reality. And for a quarter of a century, Strivright has been proving that—again and again.
The evening radiated heart, hope, and deep appreciation. Rabbi Joey Haber delivered a moving keynote that captured the very soul of Strivright’s mission: “Changing a child’s future starts with giving them a voice and letting them be heard.”
The room came alive with song and joy, thanks to unforgettable performances by Dovid Pearlman, Dovid Rotberg, and the electrifying Y-Studs A Cappella Group. Every moment sparkled with warmth and celebration.
A special appearance by New York City Mayor Eric Adams added distinction and pride, as he honored Strivright’s remarkable contributions to the city’s educational and therapeutic landscape.
The spotlight also shone brightly on three extraordinary couples, whose stories and support have become a part of Strivright’s legacy:
Mr. & Mrs. Nachman and Freda Assoulin—Community Leadership Award
Mr. & Mrs. Victor and Marlene Saadeh—Guests of Honor
Mr. & Mrs. Maurice and Eleanor Harary—Parents of the Year
Each spoke with heartfelt emotion:
“They never, ever give up,” said Nachman Assoulin. “They care about your child’s success as much—if not more—than you do.”
“There were so many things we didn’t even know we needed—but Strivright did,” reflected Marlene Saadeh. “They were with us every step of the way—always ready to help, always with a smile.”
“To have a meaningful conversation with our four-year-old—to see him express himself, grow, and thrive—that’s the power of this school,” shared Maurice Harary. “Strivright isn’t just a place where kids learn—it’s a place where kids are loved.”
Together with Gala Chairs Boruch Ber and Suri Bender, these honorees brought unmatched energy and generosity, elevating the evening into an unforgettable tribute to Strivright’s mission.
The celebration followed the school’s 36-hour 25th Anniversary Fundraising Campaign (May 6–7), which ignited support across the globe. With essential funds raised to sustain and expand Strivright’s life-changing work, the numbers speak for themselves:
Thousands of children served.
98% mainstreamed by age five.
Families relocating from 20 states and 11 countries—just to be part of this journey.
“You’re investing in an institution that goes deep,” said Eleanor Harary. “Strivright makes a lasting, personal impact—and it shows in everything they do.”
But the real impact? It’s in the stories. It’s in the moments. It’s in the confident children who learn, speak, and shine because someone believed in them.
“They held our hands through everything,” said Marlene Saadeh. “I just want to give back, because Strivright gave us so much.”
As the song echoed and the applause filled the room, one thing was clear:
Hear we are. And the best is still to come.
