Today we’d like to introduce you to Sholom Dubov.
Hi Sholom, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I founded Chabad of greater Orlando upon the direction, leadership, and inspiration of the Lubavitcher Rebbe of righteous memory. The Rebbe fled during the holocaust and came to the United States. In 1950, he ascended the leadership to become the 7th Lubavitcher Rebbe (Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson).
Immediately, he began an initiative to bring pride and education to Jewish people throughout the world. In December of 1984, the Rebbe appointed my wife Leah and me to serve as his emissaries to central Florida. We have served and continue to serve in that capacity for 39 years.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Although my enthusiasm and motivation were very high, I cannot say that for the rest of the community.
People have never heard of our organization and many were unfamiliar with our dress code, habits, and customs. In due course, people learned about our organization and warmed up to become supporters, admirers, and friends.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Chabad Lubavitch?
Chabad is a social service and educational organization reaching out to Jewish people of all affiliations and backgrounds. We establish synagogues, children’s schools, student programs on campus, counseling and crisis intervention, Kosher consulting, and certification.
Additionally, we provide services throughout a person’s life in all life cycles including, birth, bar/bat mitzvah, wedding, funerals, and other family occasions. Chabad is unique in its acceptance of all people without judgment or discrimination. We encourage every person to grow at their own pace ultimately becoming a productive and important asset to any community where they would live.
Everyone is welcome to our programs regardless of prior education or knowledge. In 39 years, we have established 12 centers serving the needs of every segment of our community.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I have the privilege of all my married children working together with us in our organization. I am most proud of my 9 children and 20 grandchildren who live nearby and wecano spend quality time with all of them.
Contact Info:
- Website: chabadorlando.org
