10 Years Of Impact: How Chabad Of Forest Hills North Is Redefining Queens Jewish Life

The Jewish community in North Forest Hills, Queens, is currently experiencing a vibrant and transformative era, largely thanks to the tireless efforts of Chabad of Forest Hills North. Established over a decade ago, this center has solidified its role not merely as a synagogue but as a dynamic, non-judgmental "home away from home" for every Jew, regardless of background or affiliation. As of today, December 14, 2025, the Chabad House continues to expand its programming, from adult education to specialized children's clubs, ensuring that the spirit of Judaism is accessible and engaging for all residents in the area.

The organization, under the leadership of its dedicated emissaries, has become a central pillar of spiritual and communal life, focusing on outreach and educational opportunities that are fresh, modern, and deeply rooted in tradition. Their unique approach, which includes everything from high-profile public Menorah lightings to intimate, one-on-one study sessions, has successfully fostered a profound sense of belonging and purpose within the diverse Queens landscape.

The Emissaries: Rabbi Mendy and Chaya Hecht Biography

The success and unique character of Chabad of Forest Hills North are intrinsically linked to its directors, Rabbi Mendy Hecht and his wife, Rebbetzin Chaya Hecht. They serve as the spiritual and communal anchors, dedicating their lives to serving the Jews of North Forest Hills.

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• Rabbi Mendy Hecht: Serves as the Director of Chabad of Forest Hills North, a role he has held since the organization's inception around 2012. His leadership is characterized by an open-door policy and a commitment to making Jewish tradition relevant to modern life. In a remarkable demonstration of his dedication to outreach, Rabbi Hecht also serves as a Chaplain at the Rikers Island Correctional Facility, bringing spiritual guidance and support to incarcerated individuals, a unique and demanding aspect of his ministry.
• Rebbetzin Chaya Hecht: Serves as the Co-Director and plays a vital role in the center's programming, particularly through her work with the Jewish Women's Circle and children's programs. Her focus is on fostering a warm, welcoming environment and providing educational and social opportunities specifically for women and families in the community.
• Founding and Mission: The Hechts established Chabad of Forest Hills North as a second branch of Chabad in the area around 2013, recognizing the growing need for an accessible Jewish center in the northern part of Forest Hills. Their core mission is to serve Jews "from all walks of life," making Judaism enjoyable and non-intimidating for those who may not be traditionally orthodox.
• Community Recognition: The Hechts and their Chabad House recently celebrated their 10th anniversary, a testament to their enduring impact and the strong support they receive from local leadership, including Borough President Donovan Richards.

The Five Pillars of Community Outreach and Engagement

Chabad of Forest Hills North is not defined by a single service, but by a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to community building. Their programming is designed to cater to all ages, levels of observance, and interests, creating a truly inclusive Jewish community experience. This structure is built on five key pillars of outreach.

1. Dynamic Adult Education and Learning

The Chabad House is a hub for Jewish learning, offering a variety of classes that cater to busy adults seeking to deepen their knowledge of their heritage. These programs are designed to be convenient, insightful, and discussion-based, ensuring a high level of engagement.

• Lunch 'N' Learn: A popular weekly program where participants can enjoy a light meal while engaging in a concise, stimulating discussion on Jewish thought, ethics, and current events.
• Torah & Tea: A dedicated class that provides a relaxed setting for women to delve into the weekly Torah portion and its practical, modern-day lessons.
• One-On-One Study: For individuals seeking a more personalized approach, the Hechts offer private study sessions on topics ranging from the Talmud and Kabbalah to Jewish history and philosophy. This personalized mentorship is a cornerstone of their mission.

2. Empowering the Jewish Woman: The Jewish Women's Circle

The Jewish Women's Circle (JWC) is a signature program led by Rebbetzin Chaya Hecht. It is a vital entity within the Chabad, focusing on women's leadership, parenting, and spiritual growth. The JWC hosts engaging, creative, and social events, often centered around Jewish holidays or practical life skills, fostering a strong network of support and friendship.

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Recent events and themes often revolve around hands-on activities, such as challah baking workshops, art projects with Jewish themes, and discussions on topics relevant to the contemporary Jewish woman. This focus on shared experience and community leadership is a powerful tool for engagement in North Forest Hills.

Innovative Holiday Celebrations and Public Events

Chabad of Forest Hills North is renowned for its large-scale, innovative holiday celebrations that draw crowds from across Queens, turning traditional Jewish holidays into vibrant community spectacles. These public events are crucial for Jewish visibility and pride in the neighborhood.

The annual Chanukah celebration is a highlight, often featuring unique and highly-publicized attractions. For instance, a past celebration featured a dramatic "Fire & Ice" Menorah lighting, which included a Menorah sculptured from ice and a fire show, transforming the traditional lighting ceremony into an exciting, family-friendly spectacle. Looking ahead, the community is anticipating events like the Shabbat Chanukah Dinner scheduled for late December 2024, continuing the tradition of communal celebration.

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Other major events include a lively community Purim Party, complete with a buffet dinner, Megillah reading, costumes, and dancing, embodying the joy and celebratory spirit of the holiday.

3. Youth and Family Engagement: CKids and After School Programs

Recognizing that the future of the community lies with its children, the Chabad invests heavily in youth programming. The CKids (Chabad Kids) program and the After School Programs are specifically tailored for children who may not attend a traditional Jewish day school, making them a crucial resource for non-Orthodox families in the area.

The programs focus on interactive learning, combining Jewish values, history, and customs with fun, hands-on activities. This approach ensures that children develop a strong, positive connection to their heritage in an engaging and memorable way. The Chabad also provides Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation, guiding young adults through this significant milestone with personalized attention.

4. Spiritual and Social Services: The "Home Away From Home"

At its heart, the Chabad House functions as a full-service Jewish center. It offers regular synagogue services in a welcoming atmosphere, along with essential ritual resources like a Mikveh. Beyond the spiritual, the Hechts emphasize providing social support, including a Senior Club & Study program to prevent isolation, and food package distribution to those in need.

This holistic approach—addressing the spiritual, educational, and material needs of the community—is what truly makes Chabad of Forest Hills North a vital, indispensable entity in the Queens Jewish landscape. The personal connection fostered by Rabbi Mendy and Rebbetzin Chaya Hecht ensures that every individual, from the seasoned member to the curious newcomer, can find a sense of purpose and belonging.