Our Story
The Young Israel of Merrick was incorporated in 1987 by a core group of 18 families. The new synagogue welcomed everyone, regardless of financial position, education, or background. From 1986 through mid 1988, services, cultural events and meetings were held in private homes with facilities being rented for the High Holidays. In mid 1988, the YoungIsrael purchased a home for use as a Shul. Eventually, The Young Israel received a variance from the Town of Hempstead to convert the home into a synagogue building. The construction was completed quickly with the help of our extended Young Israel family. Our building, though small, provided adequate seating for our members and facilities for our children.
Our goal is to promote the Torah lifestyle in Merrick. We strive to attract, welcome, and inspire every Jewish person to continually increase his or her connection to God.
Our community was led by: Rabbi Marc and Rebbetzin Jeryl Volk for 22 years and in 2018, by Rabbi Dov Winston along with his wife, Rena..
In 2023, our community welcomed our new Rabbi, Rabbi Daniel Haramati along with his wife, Eden and Ayelet, Dov, and Shmuel.
Meet Our Rabbi and Rebbetzin
Rabbi Daniel and Eden Haramati
Young Israel of Merrick welcomes Rabbi Daniel Haramati, Rebbetzin Eden Haramati and their lovely children, Ayelet, Dov, and Shmuel to the community.
We are so excited to have them become part of our Young Israel family and we are excited for the next chapter in the future of the YI Merrick under the leadership of Rabbi Haramati.
Rabbi Marc Volk, Rabbi Emeritus
Our Rabbi Emeritus, Rabbi Marc Volk epitomized the mantra of the Young Israel of Merrick, namely to provide an environment where all participants feel comfortable and are able to grow their Judaism at their own level and pace. Rabbi Volk has the unique ability to find a common ground with people of all backgrounds, whether talking about sports or halacha. The Rabbi's examples of "gemilat chesed" like visiting the sick and interaction with people in their time of need make him a real asset to our community. Jeryl Volk embraced her role as Rebbitzen with gusto. She has welcomed guests for Shabbat and Yom Tov hospitality, lead discussions and classes, and has been there as a friend to our congregants. Her warmth and genuine friendliness are appreciated and cherished by the entire membership. The Volk's served our shul for 22 years and we are lucky to still have them in the community.
Shul Board and Leadership
Board of Directors, 2021-2023
President: Stuart Daitch
Vice-President: Allen Rosenthal
Treasurer: Debby Gage
Secretary: Dr. Stanley Fish
Gabbai:
Building Chairman:
Trustees: Jeffrey Maynard, Loren Daitch, Jan Levine
Sisterhood: Stacey Nathanson
Immediate Past President: Steven Gage
Past Shul Presidents
2019-2021: Steven Gage
2017-2019: Jeffrey Maynard
2015-2017: Jan Levine
2013-2015: Steven Gage
2011-2013: Jan Levine
2007-2011: Jacob Kurland
2005-2007: Aaron Stein
2003-2005: Jeffrey Maynard
2001-2003: Allen Rosenthal
1997-2001: Steven Gage
1995-1997: Avi Abikzer
1993-1995: Steven Hamburg
1991-1993: Howard Nathanson
1989-1991: Ira Zimilover
1987-1989: Aaron Stein