Mission Statement
To strengthen the Greater Kansas City community by promoting Jewish values, study and celebration. To provide for the spiritual and material needs of all people in the Greater Kansas City community, based on the teachings of the Torah and Chabad philosophy.
History
Established in 1998, the Anna and Max Zalcman Torah Learning Center (TLC) has been offering innovative and unique programming and education for people of all ages and backgrounds for nearly 25 years. Via its array of programs, TLC goes beyond its own walls to service the entire community.
What is 'Torah'?
The Torah is the wisdom, instruction and teachings of the Creator, G-d, to mankind, which were recorded in the books of the Tanach (Hebrew Bible) and the Rabbinic writings, including the Mishna, Talmud, Midrash, Kabbalah and Chassidut.
The Torah teaches that G-d gave 613 commandments to the Jewish people and 7 Noahide commandments to all other nations. By following these instructions, the world will become a better place for all mankind, both materially and spiritually.
What is 'Chabad' philosophy?
Chabad philosophy, which is based on the Torah, teaches understanding and recognition of the Creator, the role and purpose of creation, and the importance and unique mission of each creature.
The philosophy is based on the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov (1698-1760), the Maggid of Mezritch (1704-1772) and the seven Chabad Rebbes, beginning with the Alter Rebbe (Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi - 1745-1812) through the Rebbe (Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson - 1902 - 1994).
L-R - The Rebbe greets a visitor; The Rebbe distributing coins to children to be given to charity. "When two people meet, a third person should benefit" - The Rebbe
Leadership
Board of Directors
Dana Hall-Horesh, RPh, MA - President
Rabbi Berel Sosover - Vice President
Valerie Bordy, MBA - Treasurer
Esther Friedman, ex officio - Secretary
Hadas Moshonov-Cohavi, PhD
Sandy Suffian, MBA
Rabbi Benzion & Mrs. Esther Friedman - Executive Directors
Since being sent as emissaries of the Rebbe in 1974, Rabbi Benzion and Mrs. Esther Friedman have made it their life mission to help any person in need, whether materially or spiritually. With years of experience teaching, counseling, leading and guiding, Rabbi and Mrs. Friedman have made leaps and bounds in contributing to every aspect of Jewish life in the Greater Kansas City community.