An enchanting evening of fellowship, storytelling, and fundraising... in support of Palestinian communities!   

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Highlights:

• Supportive attendance for Palestinian communities.  We hosted many of our long-time supporters and friends, as well as welcomed new folks.  We were thrilled to host so many for the afternoon. 

•  The music of Wanees Zarour and friends (click to hear a sample): 

• The benefit program, Sharing Palestinian Stories, was a treat for all:    

Elizabeth Trost, board member Seraj US, introduced us to a variety of Palestinian stories from her 2 years of teaching in Nablus.

She then introduced the very talented & dramatic Fida'a Ataya, Seraj Palestine's Master Storyteller and Program Coordinator. 

Click here to enjoy a storytelling clip from Fida'a.

• A rewarding silent auction, bringing in over $6500!  Palestinian art, crafts & artifacts, along with a host of other gift packages filled the silent auction tables.

FUND THE NEED!  click to hear about supporting Seraj

 Galen Burghardt, chair of the Seraj Board's Development Committee, ended the evening with a live auction and a request to Fund the Need.   

 Lucky winners of the live auction will soon enjoy:

       -8 Maine lobsters delivered to the their home

       -An authentic Palestinian Dinner for a Chicago gathering

We see the NEED. 

Can we all step up and FUND these opportunities?

Attendees where given the opportunity to choose how to support Seraj programs:

• Palestinian Storytelling Center (project in process)
• BJ Wagner Fellows Program, which provides scholarships for our college-age volunteers
• Books to replenish & enhance our library collections

Finally, Galen challenged all in attendance to consider a monthly donation to Seraj.  Our website makes it easy.  Just designate the amount and your credit card will be charged each month.  And budgeting and planning will be enhanced for Seraj. 

          Make a monthly/or quarterly commitment here. 

  We are most thankful for the generosity of our supporters!

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Seraj US & Seraj Palestine.