EXCLUSIVE: Susan Flam Discusses This Year’s Beit Halochem Women of Distinction Award Luncheon Honoring Libby Znaimer
Beit Halochem Canada is an organization dedicated to the aid of Israel’s injured veterans, as well as victims of terror.
By: Ashley Ramnarain
Published: October 2nd, 2013 in Culture » Society » Interviews

Susan Flam, the host of this year’s Beit Halochem’s Woman of Distinction Award Luncheon, has been attending the Beit Halochem Celebration of Life Concert, as well as supporting the organization for many years.
When asked how she became involved with the luncheon, Susan replied that, “ I was asked by the President, Toby Feldberg to join the Board of Directors and then decided to organize a ladies luncheon to bring awareness and raise funds to help Beit Halochem continue it’s outstanding mission.”
According to Susan Flam, the Woman of Distinction award recognizes a remarkable woman every year and the honour usually goes to one who has been able to help many individuals or the community through their professional accomplishments, philanthropy, or activism. This year’s celebration will honor Canadian journalist, Libby Znaimer.
Libby Znaimer
“Libby Znaimer, is truly an phenomenal recipient”, praises Susan Flam, “She is a highly successful journalist, broadcaster and radio executive who has braved and won her battle with cancer and is active in many cancer related causes.”
But planning a luncheon such as this one is no small ordeal as Susan Flam explains; “There is a lot of work involved in putting together this event and the planning starts a couple months after the last one has ended.” While the work for this event might start early every year, Susan is glad to have a committee that is able to help her with every minute detail.
“I have a wonderful committee that helps me with all aspects from designing the invitation, catering, to audio visual and PowerPoint productions, decor, entertainment; securing sponsorship and auction prizes. And when all replies are in, making sure that all our guests are sitting with their friends or family. The Beit Halochem office staff gives me a tremendous amount of support as well,” Susan explains.
For this event, Susan hopes to not only bring awareness to the community but also to attract donors, specifically the “40-50 year old women demographic group who are looking for a cause they can support”. However, with any organization, all demographics are welcome and encouraged to help support the cause and Susan admits, “at last year’s event we were able to draw some 30-40 year old women as well.”
Beit Halochem Canada is an organization dedicated to the aid of Israel’s injured veterans, as well as victims of terror. With the use of state-of-the-art rehabilitation centres, in Tel Aviv, Beer Sheva, Jerusalem, Haifa and Naharyia, Beit Halochem is able to help injured victims regain control of their lives. The injured are able to do so through the many therapies that Beit Halochem rehabilitation centres offer such as physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, therapeutic devices, specialized sports equipment, coaching and cultural activities.
Ticket’s for this year’s event can be purchased online, on the Beit Halochem website http://www.beithalochem.ca/wod.html