Exciting news for the Jewish Community at Lake Tahoe

Rabbi Mordey and Shaina Richler, co-directors of Chabad at Lake Tahoe, are excited to share the TAHOME project, the purchase of a new, permanent location for the Jewish community to call home. The ambitious $3,000,000 project includes the purchase and renovation of a beautiful building. The Jewish center will be the first for Douglas County, Nevada and will be a beacon of light to the entire community, providing social and humanitarian programs and teaching meaningful education in the ways of morality and ethics with an appreciation for divine inviolable values. 

Chabad at Lake Tahoe opened its doors at the Ski Run Marina in August 2013. Their current location has been hard-pressed to accommodate the diverse crowd that assembles for uplifting holiday celebrations, inspiring prayer services, thought-provoking adult education, and all of the gatherings that turn community into family.

Community is the mission statement of the Richlers and their Chabad center. Mordey and Shaina grew up in Chabad Chassidic homes on opposite sides of the world with the shared dream of creating a community for Jews of all backgrounds, regardless of affiliation or observance. For almost nine years, Rabbi Mordey and Shaina have had the privilege to build this dream into a reality in the close-knit Jewish community of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding area.

From putting up mezuzos in homes to distributing homemade Challah for Shabbat, Rabbi Mordey brings every element of traditional Judaism to life.
“He’s not just some Rabbi up on the bimah [stage] in shul, shaking your hand after the service,” explains community member Michael Elterman. “Mordey is very accessible.” Mike Abel describes a rabbi who hits the slopes with his daughters and then stops by to pay a visit and to encourage Mike to don tefillin. Mike laughs, “He’s made me and my wife more Jewish!” Most importantly, Mike stresses, there’s not a hint of criticism or pressure from the Richlers. Rabbi Mordey and Shaina are here for connection and to help the community, and they've certainly stayed the course.

In many ways, this new building is the natural next step in the growth of the community. The purchase comes as welcome news to residents and tourists alike. Community members have expressed great enthusiasm for the new project as they look forward to a permanent space for the events that have brought such meaning to their lives. Located in Lower Kingsbury Grade, the new site is less than a mile from Stateline and within walking distance to some of Lake Tahoe’s most beautiful resorts.

With renovations planned and the final pieces falling into place, Chabad is optimistic as they are in the midst of the $3,000,000 project.

“People have been feeling the need for a place to call home,” Shaina explains. Considering the upgraded facility, the sizable increase in space, the prime location, and the beautiful property, Shaina sees a world of potential for Chabad at Lake Tahoe.

Nothing is more natural than a community of people coming together to grow. Nothing is more beautiful than humanity uniting to illuminate and make our world a better place.

To help grow and facilitate Chabad at Lake Tahoe’s home, Chabad has launched the TAHOME capital campaign, inviting and inspiring all good people near and far to partner with them in building their future, together!

For dedication opportunities please visit Charidy.com/Tahome or call 530-539-4363

The next chapter for this warm mountain-town community is bright. Chabad at Lake Tahoe is looking forward to establishing its new home at Lower Kingsbury Grade.