Chabad Markham Celebrates 40 Years of Growth, Impact and Community
by CrownHeights.info
More than 500 friends, supporters, and community members gathered at Copper Creek Golf Club to celebrate a remarkable milestone — 40 years of Chabad Markham, a journey that began with a young couple, a few hundred dollars, and a mission to bring the light of Torah and mitzvos to the Markham community.
The evening honored four decades of dedication, growth, and countless lives touched through the work of Chabad Markham. Guests celebrated the pioneers who helped build the community from its earliest days, while reflecting on the thousands of connections, programs, and moments of inspiration that have shaped generations.
The celebration featured a moving “Ripple Effect” presentation, highlighting the far-reaching impact of one mitzvah, one act of kindness, and one connection. Guests were also treated to greetings from Gaza, a powerful reminder of the global reach and unity of the Chabad community.
The evening was filled with emotion and joy, including a special surprise portrait of the Rebbe created by members of the community, a performance by comedian Elon Gold, and a traditional Hora dance that brought everyone together in celebration.
The event also paid tribute to Rabbi Sholom Ber and Itta Plotkin, whose vision and leadership have guided Chabad Markham for four decades. The evening was spearheaded by their dedication, together with the efforts of volunteers, sponsors, supporters, and the entire Chabad Markham family.
In words of gratitude shared following the event, the Plotkins thanked the community that embraced them when they arrived in Markham in 1985, as well as their children, Rabbi and Esther Gitlin and their family, and all those who helped make the celebration possible.
The evening concluded with a message of looking forward, inspired by the teachings of the Rebbe — that true accomplishment is not measured only by what has already been achieved, but by the commitment to continue building an even greater tomorrow.
After 40 years of growth and impact, Chabad Markham looks ahead with renewed energy and a continued mission to inspire, educate, and strengthen Jewish life for generations to come.
Here’s to the next 40 years.
