Celebrating the Grand Opening of
Mikvah Gittel Raizel

Unveiling the New Mikvah

The grand opening of Mikvah Gittel Raizel is scheduled for after the Jewish High Holidays this year. Nevertheless, due to the pressing need for a local Mikvah, eager women have already begun using the facility, even as the finishing touches are being completed. The Mikvah features four elegantly appointed preparation rooms, in a calming atmosphere that encourages relaxation and reflection.

The interior design dedicated by a friend of the community and its Rabbi, was designed by Maggie Rogatsky of Haute Couture Design, exudes an ambiance of tranquility, fostering an environment conducive to the spiritual contemplation that the Mikvah experience embodies. Soft lighting, natural elements, and soothing color palettes were meticulously chosen to enhance the spiritual journey each visitor undertakes.

A Community Endeavor

The grand opening of the Mikvah was not just a celebration of a physical space, but a testament to the power of community. Peretz Mockin, who has lived here for 9 years tells ColLive, “I still don’t know exactly why I took on the project, I woke up one day and decided that it needs to be done for the hundreds of Jewish families in the area. Boruch Hashem, I was put in a position over the last couple of years that allowed me the time to dedicate to this important project.” Countless individuals, families, and organizations joined hands to make this dream a reality, “The first few people that I called were very generous and encouraging, and that gave me the confidence that we would be successful.” From the designers and contractors who crafted the physical structure to the generous donors who offered their time and resources, the new Mikvah’s inauguration became a symbol of growth and shared purpose. 

One of the members of the community, Yossi Rudd, who owns a contracting company that worked tirelessly on the construction says “I became involved because it’s a Mitzvah that poses significant challenges for women. I recognized that if I didn’t take action, it might remain unresolved. That’s when I joined forces with Peretz to kickstart this project,” Yoss Rudd explains. He adds, “Sadly, my mother passed away before construction began, intensifying my drive to complete it in her memory.”

Embracing Tradition, Embracing the Future

Rabbi Zalman and Shana Korf founded Chabad of Walnut Creek, first opening in 2003 to serve the religious and community needs of a small and burgeoning Jewish population on the border of Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, and East Davie. The community has grown in many ways over the last 20 years. 

Chabad of Walnut Creek’s unique community is home to over 100 religious families and over 400 Jewish families in the area and surrounding areas. The Shul has expanded to include a second building where the BDG Kids programs and minyanim are held. As the community grew the basic needs grew as well. 

“Having Mikvah Gittel Reizel in our community gives us permanence and strength. It ensures greater Shalom Bayis and Jewish children who are born in purity with blessed abilities beyond the natural order!”  says Rabbi Korf, “Through the initiative of Reb Peretz and Channy Mockin, children of Shluchim with a deep sense of making their surroundings match the Rebbe’s ideals, this Mikvah became a reality.” 

Rabbi Korf continues the theme of unity, “With the participation of the community of Chabad of Walnut Creek, this is a miraculous success that will foster Achdus through the coming of Mashiach now!” 

Mrs. Chaya Bortunk, who moved to Walnut Creek 7 years ago, was one of the first to try to get this project off the ground. “We’re so grateful that Peretz and Channy took this on. In just over 12 months, the project went from just an idea to having the first users. I think the benefit is to the entire community, a new Mikvah which inspires and gives the ability to many new Mikvah users in the coming future.” 

The community extends its thanks to Mikvah USA for being a generous sponsor and advisor to help get this project going. “Formerly devoid of any observant Jews, Walnut Creek and its surrounding area has seen a huge influx of young Jewish families. There are also a large number of unaffiliated Jews living in the area. The only Mikvaos are in neighboring communities but with all of those areas seeing rapid growth as well, relying on those mikvahs is not sustainable in the long term. Mikvah USA is working closely with community leaders to bring a new and much-needed Mikvah to the community. Having an attractive mikvah located in the heart of the community is expected to more than double Taharah observance in the future.”

The grand opening of Mikvah Gittel Raizel is a reminder that amidst the rapid changes of the modern world, traditions that nurture the soul and bind communities together continue to thrive. With its doors now open, the Mikvah stands as a testament to the past, present, and future, inviting all who enter to embark on a journey of spiritual renewal and personal growth.