Gail Perl, Co-President of WIZO, USA (right), posed for Purim with Assistant Director, Anna Stein. Photo: Maxine Dovere.

The Women’s International Zionist Organization, WIZO, states its mission as working to secure the future of Israel’s tomorrow by meeting the needs of today.  If the excitement of the overflow crowd that enjoyed its 2012 Young Leadership Masquerade Ball on March 8th at New York’s Hudson Terrace is a measure, the “20-30 Something” generation has taken on that responsibility with enthusiasm. The evening’s co sponsor, Young Persian Jewish Community (YPJC) , is a Manhattan organization of young Jewish professionals working to foster a sense of community, empower Jewish youth, and raise awareness for Persian Jewish traditions and cultural values.

The WIZO YL – YPJC evening, while filled with fun and frolic, had a serious goal: to provide summer camp sponsorships for Israeli children from underprivileged homes.  Party goers came in top hats and masks to enjoy an evening made even more delicious by the fabulous food samplings from 18 Restaurant. From the elaborate sushi station to the international buffet to the wide array of sweets, there was something for every culinary preference.

Mentalist Asi Wind mesmerized guests with slight of hand and card tricks. DJ Daniel Chetrit kept the music exciting.   An in-party photo booth made memory magic. The festive and enthusiastic crowd of almost 400 partied on until well past one in the morning.

Since its founding in 1920, WIZO has created and managed over 800 social welfare projects dedicated “to improve the lives of women, children and the elderly” throughout Israel.  Its current operating budget is 630 million NIS (Israeli Shekels).  The organization is the largest provider of social services in Israel.  WIZO has been recognized by the United Nations as a Non Government Organization – an N.G.O.- and has “consultative status” with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (Ecosoc). It’s newly elected president, Tova Ben Dov, says  WIZO has “streamlined and become efficient.” “We are changing with the times,” Ben-Dov told the Israeli newspaper Haaretz. “That’s what our young leadership wants.”

Fashion blogger Leandra Medine, (left) was amazed by the skills of "mentalist" Asi Wind, (far right). Photo: Maxine Dovere.