March 7–9, 2025 – It was a weekend that people will be talking about for a long time. Over 800 strong came together from around the country for the 2025 Project Inspire Convention, and what they experienced was more than just inspiration — it was a powerful push to get involved.

With the theme “Unlock the Inspired YOU,” the convention reminded everyone that we all have something to give. It encouraged each person not only to grow in their own Yiddishkeit, but to take the next step: to raise their hand and join the mission. The goal wasn’t just about reaching out to less affiliated Jews — it was about getting involved in the many initiatives Project Inspire has built to make that outreach possible.

The convention opened with a meaningful and heartfelt talk from Rabbi Yechiel Spero, who spoke during Friday night davening and set the tone for the weekend ahead.

Friday night continued to build with a powerful address from Rabbi Aaron Kotler, President Emeritus of Beth Medrash Govoha, moved the crowd with heartfelt stories about his father and grandfather, Rav Shneur zt”l and Rav Aharon zt”l. Long before kiruv became “mainstream,” they were already reaching out in their daily lives, helping others connect to Torah with love and care. Rabbi Kotler reminded us that the responsibility to inspire others is part of our mesorah — and now, we have practical tools to do it.

Motzei Shabbos brought some of the most powerful and emotional moments of the convention. Rabbi Berel Lazar, Chief Rabbi of Russia, delivered a deeply stirring address that left a lasting impression. He asked: “If you had the chance to save the Bibas children, wouldn’t you do everything you could?” Then he made the connection — there are so many Jews out there who don’t know what they’re missing. The Rambam calls them “tinok shenishba,” like hostages who never had the chance to know Torah. Rabbi Lazar’s message was clear: Project Inspire is giving us real ways to help bring them back. But we have to say yes.

Following him, Rabbi Chaim Sampson, Founding Director of Project Inspire, spoke with passion and urgency. He compared our mission to the bravery of soldiers who run into danger to protect us. “They risk their lives,” he said. “Can’t we step forward to help another Jew feel connected and proud?” His message was clear: This is our chance to show up for Klal Yisrael.

One of the most emotional and memorable moments of the weekend came when Efraim Bibi shared his story. Fifteen years ago, he was sitting on a plane when, as he described it, “a scary lady” — Mrs. Tzipi Reifer — sat near him and they struck up a conversation. Before the flight was over, she had invited him for Shabbos. That one simple invitation changed everything. Today, he’s a husband, a father, and a teacher of Torah. “When I see the sparkle in my kids’ eyes when they learn,” he said, “I think — what would have happened if not for that one flight?” His story brought the audience to tears and reminded everyone that sometimes, all it takes is one person to make a life-changing difference.

Sunday morning, as the weekend drew to a close, Rabbi Shlomo Farhi tied it all together with a powerful and practical message. “You don’t need to change your life,” he said. “You just need to live it with purpose.” Project Inspire offers real, accessible ways for people to make a difference — from mentoring to Shabbos hosting to community programs and beyond. “Everyone can give something,” he told the crowd. “The question is — what’s yours to give?”

Throughout the hotel, Project Inspire made it easy for people to take that step. Big signs and staffed tables introduced six powerful initiatives designed to match people’s skills, schedules, and interests. From the moment guests arrived, the question was on everyone’s mind: Which initiative will I choose? How can I be part of this? By the end of the weekend, hundreds had already signed up — ready to begin their journey.

Yossie Friedman, Executive Director of Project Inspire, summed it up best: “This isn’t about ‘getting frum people involved in kiruv.’ It’s about realizing this is already your mission — and now we’re giving you the tools to carry it out. There isn’t anyone who can say, ‘This isn’t for me.’”

The Project Inspire Convention wasn’t just about getting inspired — it was about taking that inspiration and turning it into action. And for many who were there, that process is already underway.

To find your place and explore the six initiatives, visit projectinspire.com/initiatives.